Asda is to stop selling CD singles because of a slump in sales, it has announced.

The company, which will begin phasing out singles this week, blamed cheaper album prices and downloads for the decline in demand.

It is thought the decision could affect the charts as figures in 2005 showed nearly one in eight singles were bought at Asda - topped only by HMV, Virgin and Woolworths.

Music buyer Andy Powell explained: "We're reluctantly saying goodbye to one of the most important products in music history. Customers want more than just a song from their favourite artists - they want the whole album at an affordable price."

Asda is one of several chains that have been cutting album prices. It said it would use the extra space to promote "breakthrough albums".

Meanwhile, Woolworths said it was sticking with the single for now. Music manager Jim Batchelor commented: "They are still an important part of the music business. If you give people what they want, they will buy it."