Battle of the Christmas ads! As John Lewis’ Venus flytrap tale bucks tradition, watch all the festive offerings so far (so, which is your favourite?)

• With Christmas 46 days away, retailers have started to launch their festive ads 
• READ MORE: Star of John Lewis Christmas ad Teddy Holton-Frances, 8, has already worked with McDonald’s and Barnardo’s (thanks to talent agency run by his parents)

The start of the festive season is finally here, which means Christmas adverts have begun gracing screens across the UK.

December 25 is still 46 days away, but many retailers have already unleashed their big budget ads in an attempt to get a head start in the annual race to win the hearts – and cash – of the British consumers.

John Lewis, which famously kick-started the trend for extravagant Christmas commercials, has surprised viewers with a jolly campaign – a million miles away from the usual tear-jerkers the British retailer typically creates.

But while John Lewis might have been the first to commence the festive tradition, they have come into fierce competition from brands across the country.

From Aldi to Morrison’s and Marks and Spencer’s, here, FEMAIL has rounded up the Christmas adverts released thus far, so the public can judge the best for themselves.

JOHN LEWIS 

The retailer has opted for a bright, joyous campaign – and has, for only the second time in 16 years of festive ads, set the feature to an original track, by Andrea Bocelli 

John Lewis Christmas adverts are known for pulling at the heartstrings with their tales set to tear-jerking acoustic hits.

But this year, viewers won’t be reaching for the tissues.

The retailer has broken with tradition and opted for a bright and joyous campaign, themed around celebrating traditions old and new. And for only the second time in the 16 years it’s been making festive ads, it has used an original song instead of a cover of a classic hit.

Andrea Bocelli provides the soundtrack to this year’s heartwarming tale about a little boy called Alfie, who asks his grandmother for a seed to ‘grow your own perfect Christmas tree’.

He plants it, and is delighted to see that instead of the typical festive fir, his pot is sprouting an animated, carnivorous Venus flytrap, dubbed ‘Snapper, the perfect tree’.

Causing panic in his family, Snapper grows and grows, soon towering over little Alfie and his parents.

The next scenes show a blossoming friendship between Alfie, who is played by first-time child actor Teddy from Bournemouth. 

The boy and plant become two peas in a pod, with Snapper flipping the pages while Alfie reads, and the pair doing arts and crafts together. 

But like a badly behaved puppy, the plant causes chaos in the household by chewing decorations, chasing after the family dog and knocking over lamps and furniture.

Finally frustrated, a dejected Alfie has to watch Snapper be cast away into the cold.

They replace the Venus flytrap with a conventional fir tree while the boy sadly looks on, missing his friend.

On the other side of the window, a wistful Snapper watches the family celebrate without him.

However on Christmas morning, Alfie steps out into the garden and goes to pet his beloved plant, shaking off his frost and snow.

The heartwarming tale – which was unveiled this morning – follows a little boy called Alfie, who asks his grandmother for a seed to ‘grow your own perfect Christmas tree’

Much to the panic of his family, the plant – called ‘Snapper’ – grows and grows, soon towering over little Alfie and his parents

He plants a present down at the base of the plant, and soon the rest of the family joins in.

Snapper gobbles the offerings up, spitting out festive gifts for the family – everything from headphones to Lego sets and slippers. 

Andrea’s theatrical repetition of the lyrics ‘la vita è una festa’ – meaning life is a celebration’ – provides an inspiring melodic composition that matches the tone and mood of each shot.

The retailer’s theme this year is the marking of old and new festive traditions with the strapline ‘Let Your Traditions Grow’.

The campaign – the first by Saatchi and Saatchi for John Lewis – aims to capture how the unusual and unexpected, over the conventionally ‘perfect’, can lead to family joy. 

Charlotte Lock, customer director for John Lewis, said the campaign aims to honour both the old and new.

The campaign – the first by Saatchi and Saatchi for John Lewis – aims to capture how the unusual and unexpected, over the conventionally ‘perfect’, can lead to a joyful time together 

The ad shows the little plant growing into an animated – and at times overly spirited – Venus flytrap

In the feature, while Alfie’s family is scared of the plant, the little boy is absolutely enchanted 

‘We are a nation that loves the traditions of Christmas – from classic traditions like pantos and putting up the tree to evolving new ones like crafting our own presents and Zoom get-togethers,’ she explained.

‘Many of us have our own unique festive traditions and that makes them even more special.

‘The film celebrates themes of family and evolving traditions and shows that a “perfect” Christmas is finding joy together with loved ones, whatever your traditions.’

Andrea’s Festa, which means ‘celebration’, is written and produced by Le Feste Antonacci specifically for the John Lewis advert. 

‘I am delighted to take part in this wonderful and unique tradition of Christmas storytelling,’ Andrea remarked.

‘It is very special for me given the great support this will bring to both the John Lewis and Andrea Bocelli foundations. Joy to all of your worlds this Christmas!’ 

Finally frustrated, a dejected Alfie has to watch Snapper be cast away into the cold. They replace the Venus flytrap with a conventional pine tree while boy sadly looks on, missing his friend

Andrea’s theatrical repetition of the lyrics ‘la vita è una festa’ – meaning life is a celebration’ – provides an inspiring soundtrack

Snapper gobbles the offerings up, spitting out plenty of festive gifts for the family, everything from headphones to Lego sets and slippers

The soundtrack will be released in longer form as a charity single with some of the proceeds from the sale of the single going to the John Lewis Partnership’s Building Happier Futures charities, which help care experienced young people and families in need. 

There is also plenty of merchandise: the Snapper collection will be available in all John Lewis shops as well as online, and selected Waitrose stores.

ALDI

Narrated by acting legend Jim Broadbent in the style of a poem, the advert tells the story of Kevin’s trip to the factory alongside Grandpa Grate and four other competition winners

Kevin the Carrot is back for another Aldi Christmas, this time touring William Conker’s Christmas factory with the likes of spoilt little sprout and greedy, gluttonous grape.

This is Kevin’s eighth year as the Aldi’s festive mascot and this year their advert has taken more than a little inspiration from the famous Willy Wonka.

Narrated by acting legend Jim Broadbent in the style of a poem, the advert tells the story of Kevin’s trip to the factory alongside Grandpa Grate and four other competition winners. 

The group are shown through Conker’s factory – which is filled with festive treats including a choux bun Christmas tree, a mince pie conveyor belt and a gravy river. 

But while Kevin celebrates the giving nature of Christmas, other winners are more self-serving and end up in some sticky situations. 

This is Kevin’s eighth year as the bargain supermarket’s festive mascot and this year their advert has taken more than a little inspiration from the famous Willy Wonka

The pun-filled advert begins with an excited crowd gathered at the gate of the factory before Conker makes his big arrival. 

‘Welcome to my world of festive innovation,’ says Conker, as the group enter the factory filled with workers called ‘plumpty dumptys’. 

‘Look, trumpeting sprouts!’ shouts Kevin, as a boat carrying a group of Brussels sprouts playing the trumpet travels along the gravy river. 

The narrator then says: ‘The guests were told politely they really shouldn’t touch but the greedy, gluttonous grape didn’t listen very much’ – at which point grape jumps into the river and starts to slurp up the gravy with a straw.

‘My beautiful gravy,’ Conker wails. 

But grape soon faces the consequences as he becomes engulfed by gravy. 

Next to have their bubble burst is the ‘sulky, sour rhubarb’ who ‘always puts herself first’. She pushes two plumpty dumptys out of the way to get the best view of the river, but when she blows a bubble of gum, a flying lightbulb quickly pops it with a holly leaf, leaving rhubarb covered in sticky gum. 

The factory tour moves on to the mince pie conveyor belt, where snowman heads are squashed by giant mechanical hands and turn into icing sugar to top the treats.

‘I want a mince pie,’ shouts spoilt little sprout – before leaping off the platform and onto the snowman-head pully, knocking over a plumpty dumpty in the process. 

Both Sprout and the plumpty dumpty are hooked onto the machine and carried up to the giant hands. ‘I can see his plum crack’, says Kevin, as the plumpty dumpty is hooked onto machine by his trousers. 

The pun-filled advert begins with an excited crowd gathered at the gate of the factory before Conker makes his big arrival

‘Look, trumpeting sprouts!’ shouts Kevin, as a boat carrying a group of Brussels sprouts playing the trumpet travels along the gravy river

The narrator then says: ‘The guests were told politely they really shouldn’t touch but the greedy, gluttonous grape didn’t listen very much’ – at which point grape jumps into the river and starts to slurp up the gravy with a straw

The advert then shows Sprout between the giant hands before it cuts away and a squishing noise is heard as Conker puts a leaf over Kevin’s eyes. 

No Christmas dinner is complete without a dessert, so the next stop in the factory is to the chocolate pudding maker – where cakes are coated in melted chocolate. 

The narrator says: ‘Christmas isn’t selfish, it’s not all ‘me me me’. Yet nobody had mentioned this to the mischievous kiwi.’

Kiwi excitedly stands beside the puddings before leaping onto one to catch the melted chocolate coming out of the tap. However the cake is then plunged into a cooler and Kiwi ends up hardened into the cake. 

‘Only Kevin the Carrot clearly understood the true meaning of Christmas and the importance of being good,’ the narrator continues, as Kevin is seen handing out gifts to the plumpty dumptys. 

Conker says: ‘Congratulations Kevin, you’ve passed the test. I’d like to present you with the cheese to the factory.’

At this point, a block of cheese in the shape of a key rises from the floor.

‘Wow, that’s huge Willy’ says Kevin. ‘Can I share my good fortune with everyone?’ 

The factory tour moves on to the mince pie conveyor belt, where snowman heads are squashed by giant mechanical hands and turn into icing sugar to top the treats

Kiwi excitedly stands beside the puddings before leaping onto one to catch the melted chocolate coming out of the tap. However the cake is then plunged into a cooler and Kiwi ends up hardened into the cake

Conker says: ‘Congratulations Kevin, you’ve passed the test. I’d like to present you with the cheese to the factory.’ At this point, a block of cheese in the shape of a key rises from the floor

‘That’s the spirit,’ replies Conker – at which point the doors to the factory open and an array of fruit and vegetable characters come flooding in. 

The advert ends with a message saying ‘Seasonal goodwill was truly in the air for Christmas is a time that’s sweeter when you share’, accompanied by a cheerful crowd of characters from Aldi’s Christmas past, including Ebanana Scrooge and Marcus Raddishford. 

It then zooms out with a variety of Aldi sweet treats and Christmas dinner essentials, including turkey, roast potatoes and cheese boards, on display. 

Jemma Townsend, Marketing Director at Aldi UK, said: ‘Christmas is made magical by coming together and sharing the joy of celebration even in tough times- just like Kevin wants to with his Christmas wish.

‘It wouldn’t be the festive season without Kevin the Carrot on our TV screens; we know our shoppers will love seeing him getting into the Christmas spirit as we welcome him back for his eighth year with us.’

BOOTS 

Armed with a shopping bag filled with gifts, the pair embark on an epic journey together, from the local high street to the snow-capped landscapes of Santa’s home.  

On their travels, kind strangers help them on their way, and, in return for their generosity, the girl gifts a special item from Boots to show their appreciation. 

From a Dyson Airwrap for the pilot, to a Benefit Volumizing Mascara for the train conductor, by the time they reach Santa, they have just the one gift left… a pair of Boots Travel Flight Socks, perfect for the big journey ahead of him.

Boots has launched a heartwarming Christmas advert that focuses on a young girl and her mother travelling to the North Pole to give Santa a gift 

The film begins with a cheery mother and her young daughter as they exit a Boots superstore.

While ‘I’m Gonna Get There Somehow’ by Val Doonican plays in the background, the young girl suddenly stops, clearly spotting something amiss. 

Her cheery demeanour vanishes when she spots someone busking on the snow-filled pavement, alongside a miniature version of Santa.

Armed with a Boots shopping bag filled with gifts, this marks the beginning of an epic journey together for the family, as they embark on a mission to deliver presents to Father Christmas himself – ensuring to extend the same generosity to others along the way.

The festive ad sets out to remind viewers that there is a present for everyone when you shop at Boots.

Pete Markey, Chief Marketing Officer at Boots said: ‘At Boots, we want to help customers to celebrate the people who deserve to be appreciated.

‘Family, friends, colleagues, or anyone in the local community who has made a difference to their lives this year. 

‘Christmas is the perfect time to express our gratitude to others and with our extensive range of great value gifts and amazing offers, Boots really does have something to help make everyone in your life feel valued this Christmas’.

In the advert, the young girl spots someone busking on the snow-filled pavement, alongside a miniature version of Santa

Armed with a Boots shopping bag filled with gifts, this marks the beginning of an epic journey together for the family, as they embark on a mission to deliver presents to Father Christmas himself – ensuring to extend the same generosity to others along the way

On their travels kind strangers help them on their way, and in return for their kindness, the thoughtful girl gifts them a special item from Boots to show her appreciation

Nearly 50 per cent of Boots’ seasonal gift range is priced at £10 or less, plus customers can snap up amazing deals all season long, with the much-loved Star Gift programme, biggest ever Black Friday and more Price Advantage offers than ever before. 

The Boots Christmas advert follows the release of other festive productions, including a star-studded ad from M&S Food. 

Dawn French returns as the M&S Food fairy in this year’s festive advert, where she is joined by Hollywood actors and Wrexham football club co-chairmen, Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds .

Meanwhile, Lidl hopes to pull on the heartstrings of the nation with their advert, which sets out to remind viewers about the power of small gestures.

Very’s advert Let’s Make It Sparkle, debuting flamboyant flamingo characters Cherry, Kerry, and Terry alongside remastered Girls Aloud track Merry Christmas, Everybody.

Meanwhile, Lidl’s heart-warming Christmas ad reminds viewers of the power of small gestures.

Brimming with Christmas spirit, the advert tells the story of an adorable raccoon who goes above and beyond to make one little boy’s day extra special.

AMAZON 

While many supermarkets have opted for A-listers, popstars and famous faces of Hollywood for their 2023 Christmas advert, Amazon took a different approach.

Instead of banking on star power, the retail giant is hoping to pull of the heartstrings this festive season, with a sweet video about life long friendship and joyful memories.

The 60-second advert, shared exclusively with Femail, tells the story of three life-long friends reviving the joy of their youth atop a snowy hill.

Called ‘Joy Ride’, the spot features a rendition of The Beatles’ ‘In My Life’ played by a 40-piece orchestra. 

Against this musical score and snowy backdrop, the ad is an ode to friendship – a heart-warming story that unfolds as the three older women gather on a park bench and sip hot drinks, wistfully watching on as playful children and teenagers sledge down the hill in their local park.

Instead of banking on star power, Amazon is hoping to pull of the heartstrings this festive season, with a sweet video about life long friendship and joyful memories

While the world around them whizzes by, the friends stay seated, quiet and still. But not for long. 

The lead character takes in the scene, noticing that her friends are looking out longingly.

With that, we see an idea spark within her and a mischievous smile appears. 

She opens the Amazon shopping app on her mobile phone and adds padded seat cushions to her shopping basket.

The very next day, the delivery arrives and, back to their special spot, the friends are presented with the Amazon box. 

When they open it, they are mystified with its contents.

But with their interest piqued, the leader of the group encourages her friends to follow her to the hill.

The scene cuts to the friends, now ankle-deep in fresh snow, placing the new seat cushions in their sledges. 

Called ‘Joy Ride’, the spot features a rendition of The Beatles ‘ ‘In My Life’ played by a 40-piece orchestra that shows women sledging 

With a reassuring smile, their excitement and anticipation take hold and they join the (somewhat younger) crowds on the snowy slopes.

Laughter, cheers and an emotional flashback to their youth spent together on the same slopes comes flooding back. 

The vivacious trio are full of life as they zoom down the hill with their arms waving in the air.

Once the women reach the bottom of the snowy hill, they rise to their feet and, with enthusiasm, begin the walk back up the hill. 

Their excitement is palpable as they get ready for another exhilarating ride down the snowy slope.

The ad is the start of Amazon’s integrated ‘Joy is shared’ festive brand campaign and will run across TV, streaming and online until the end of December, it will first be shown on TV during Coronation Street on ITV tonight.   

The global Christmas campaign aims to show how joyful holiday moments are made more special when they’re shared and that having fun doesn’t have to stop at a certain age. 

‘This year’s Christmas campaign is inspired by our Amazon customers and their thoughtful ideas and traditions,’ said Jo Shoesmith, VP Global CCO, Amazon told FEMAIL.

Laughter, cheers and an emotional flashback to their youth spent together on the same slopes comes flooding back in the ad

‘The stories we tell serve as a reminder that sometimes the joy you receive from doing something special, for those you love, can uplift us all at this time of year. 

‘We also wanted to give these wonderful women the chance to celebrate the different facets of themselves and how they express joy, regardless of their age.’

 Debenhams

Alison Hammond takes you into the ‘Starry Night’ – standing atop a spectacular moon, applying Estee Lauder lipstick 

Alison Hammond, Lisa Snowdon, Sophie Habboo and designer Zandra Rhodes to name a few, feature in the star-studded Debenhams Wonderland is Waiting Christmas advert

Viewers will step into the beautiful candlelit ‘Golden Room’ with Debenhams ambassador Lisa Snowdon as she applies her Clarins Lip Comfort Oil, surrounded by a shimmering warmth and elegance merge to create a sense of enchantment.

They can then explore the magical ‘Winter Forest,’ with TV personality, podcaster and Debenhams ambassador, Sophie Habboo as she spritzes her YSL Libre Eau de Parfum – offering an ethereal glimpse into her fantasy forest landscape.

Join Debenhams ambassador, Zandra Rhodes can be also be seen spraying her Coty fragrance in the retro and vibrant ‘Flower Power’ world, where nostalgia, colour and style collide and blossom.

Elsewhere the retailer’s celebrity partners and popular Youtubers, Sophia and Cinzia feature MAC, where they invite you to experience the icy charm of the ‘Glacier’ wonderland filled with shimmering silver beauty.

Meanwhile Alison Hammond – also a celebrity partner – can take you into the ‘Starry Night’, standing atop a spectacular moon and applying Estee Lauder lipstick as she welcomes you to revel in the celestial skies.

Lastly, you can soar up into the clouds with TikTok viral dance sensations, Brookie and Jessie, embracing their role as ‘Christmas Angels’ featuring Made By Mitchell, as they bring the joy and spirit of the season to life with their iconic dance moves.

Daniel Finley, Chief Executive Officer, Debenhams said: ‘Debenhams has long been recognised as the trusted go-to retailer, that captures the hearts and imaginations of shoppers of all ages. 

‘With our Wonderland is Waiting campaign, we aim to rekindle that emotional connection and invite customers to join us in celebrating the magical nature of the holiday season. 

‘The unique personalities of our celebrity ambassadors and partners are really brought to life in each of the films, as well as showcasing our unrivalled online shopping experience and extensive range of brands on offer.’

Sainsbury’s 

The ad stars Never Gonna Give You Up singer Rick Astley and real life Sainsbury’s workers for the first time

It opens in a busy supermarket store with shoppers browsing the aisles for the big day, when a young girl hops up to the tannoy to make an announcement

This advert asks the very important question of what Santa really eats for Christmas.

Starring Never Gonna Give You Up singer Rick Astley – and real life Sainsbury’s workers for the first time – the creative feature puts a fun twist on traditional ads.

It opens in a busy supermarket store with shoppers browsing the aisles for the big day, when a young girl hops up to the tannoy to make an announcement. She asks’ ‘Hey Sainsbury’s, I have a question, it’s about Santa…’

It cuts to shocked shoppers and staff looking concerned over what she is about to ask, while Santa himself even gasps in horror.

A look of relief floods their faces when she continues: ‘What does he have for his Christmas dinner?’

The question sparks a flurry of responses from Sainsbury’s colleagues while they’re seen working in stores and delivering shopping to customers’ doors.

As the colleagues share their recommendations, each item magically appear on Santa’s Christmas dinner table.

Back in the store, Rick Astley has his own idea about what Santa might like, innocently asking ‘how about some cheese?’.

To which Sainsbury’s workers say: ‘C’mon Rick, cheese before pudding, you know the rules.’

Disney

https://youtube.com/watch?v=xVkxRP8gfOg%3Frel%3D0

Disney launched it’s holiday campaign called May Your Wishes Come True focusing on the power of wishes for its 100th anniversary

English-language voice of Asha and Academy Award-winning actress and singer Ariana DeBose delivers the opening line in the English version

It tells the heartwarming stories of families and friends from around the world, who are united by a universal wish to be together with their loved ones during the Christmas, recognising a range of festive traditions

Disney launched its holiday campaign called May Your Wishes Come True – focusing on the power of wishes – for its 100th anniversary. 

The advert, called A Wish For The Holidays, takes inspiration from the soon-to-be released Walt Disney Animation Studios’ movie Wish.

The ad is directed by Grammy Award-winning Nigerian/British director Meji Alabi and features scenes representing six geographical locations and languages. 

It tells the heartwarming stories of families and friends from around the world, who are united by a universal wish to be together with their loved ones during the Christmas, recognising a range of festive traditions.

Director Meji Alabi said: ‘I feel lucky to have collaborated with such a diverse group of people on Disney’s Holiday campaign this year. 

‘There were so many stand-out moments for me during the filming, but I think the most memorable was watching the South African kids choir sing their lines. It truly gave me goosebumps.’

The ad includes the globally recognisable song A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes from Cinderella, rearranged to enable multiple performers to come together with one united voice. 

English-language voice of Asha and Academy Award-winning actress and singer Ariana DeBose delivers the opening line in the English version, and voice actresses in markets around the world sing it in other languages.

The ad has been globally produced by Ridley Scott Associates across the US, UK and South Africa and developed in collaboration with the Disney Parks, Experiences and Products internal advertising agency Yellow Shoes.

Joss Hastings, VP Global Marketing, Disney Consumer Products, Games & Publishing, said: ‘Holiday traditions may look different around the world but however and wherever you’re celebrating, we all share the wish to be with the ones we love during this special time of year.’

Morrisons

The latest wholesome ad from Morrisons brings back all the festive 80’s nostalgia as it is set to a rendition of American rock band Starship’s classic power ballad Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now

During the ad, oven gloves that reside in kitchens up and down the country, come alive to sing their support for hosts and chefs as they prepare their celebratory feasts on the big day

The festive advert finishes with the oven gloves checking in on the delicious mains

Morrisons b rings back all the festive 80’s nostalgia as it is set to a rendition of American rock band Starship’s classic power ballad Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now.

During the ad, oven gloves that reside in kitchens up and down the UK, come alive to sing their support for hosts and chefs as they prepare their celebratory feasts on the big day.

The ad starts with a familiar scene: a father, in his pyjamas and a Santa hat, making his way to the kitchen to preheat the oven at the crack of dawn on Christmas Day.

Families are then seen preparing food for the festive , supported and serenaded by their favourite oven gloves.  

During the song’s chorus, the gloves jump out of drawers in a choreographed dance as the Christmas pudding gets set alight.

The ad, which was directed by Tim McNaughton, finishes with the oven gloves checking in on the delicious mains cooking in the oven before the meals are proudly served up to rapturous applause.

Rachel Eyre, Morrisons Chief Customer and Marketing Officer, said: ‘This Christmas – and every Christmas – great British food should be the star of the show and so our ad showcases Morrisons brilliant Christmas range. 

‘But there’s always a lot to do when preparing the big Christmas meal and some classic 1980s power ballad encouragement is clearly in order. 

‘And so we’ve made the trusty oven glove the tuneful cheerleaders of the nation’s Christmas chefs and we hope they enjoy it as much as we enjoyed making it. Nothing’s gonna stop us making this Christmas the best for our customers.’

Mark Elwood, ECD at Leo Burnett UK, said: ‘The humble oven glove is at the heart of every Christmas across the UK. 

‘Everyone has a pair in their kitchen drawer or hung up on the oven, whether they’re a fresh new set or the ones that got scorched while making Christmas dinner in 1993. 

‘Our singing oven gloves are there to support hosts up and down the nation whilst making their Christmas dinner special. Bringing a little festive joy to the nation with an 80s banger that everyone can sing along too. #GloveOke anyone?’

VERY

Very launched its new Christmas advert Let’s Make It Sparkle, debuting flamboyant flamingo characters Cherry, Kerry, and Terry

Very launched its new Christmas advert Let’s Make It Sparkle, debuting flamboyant flamingo characters Cherry, Kerry, and Terry alongside remastered Girls Aloud track Merry Christmas, Everybody.

The humorous Christmas campaign positions the digital retailer and its customers as vibrant, pink flamingos and encourages them to transform everyday experiences into something wonderful.

The TV ad opens with a dull cityscape, where grey pigeons and pink flamingos are dutifully Christmas shopping. However, this everyday activity is transformed into something magical.

The TV ad opens with a dull cityscape, where grey pigeons and pink flamingos are dutifully Christmas shopping

Pink thunderclouds roll in and the pigeons are left awestruck by a team of pink delivery flamingos who are gracefully carrying Very parcels

Pink thunderclouds roll in and the pigeons are left awestruck by a team of pink delivery flamingos who are gracefully carrying Very parcels. 

As the parcels are delivered, Kerry, Terry and Cherry’s homes erupt into enormous, clouds of pink glitter.

Jessica Myers, Chief Marketing Officer at Very, said: ‘We know Very customers are as imaginative and enthusiastic about everyday moments as they are about Christmas, and we want to celebrate and enable that sense of joy and fun all year round as part of our commitment to our purpose; helping families get more out of life. 

‘Let’s Make It Sparkle brings that spirit to life brilliantly, and we’re so excited for the opportunities this new creative platform will open up in 2024 and beyond.’ 

LIDL 

Lidl’s heart-warming Christmas ad reminds viewers of the power of small gestures this festive season

Brimming with Christmas spirit, the advert tells the story of an adorable raccoon who goes above and beyond to make one little boy’s day extra special

Having spotted the toy monkey stranded in the cold snow, the black and white striped protagonist jumps into action and crosses the city by any means possible

Lidl’s heart-warming Christmas ad reminds viewers of the power of small gestures.

Brimming with Christmas spirit, the advert tells the story of an adorable raccoon who goes above and beyond to make one little boy’s day extra special.

The story begins when the raccoon looks curiously through a window to see a family excitedly decorating a Christmas tree – when their dog accidentally smashes the little boy’s favourite monkey Christmas decoration.

Wanting to cheer her son up, the boy’s mother picks up a cuddly toy while doing the weekly shop at Lidl, but accidentally drops it on the cycle home. 

Having spotted the toy monkey stranded in the cold snow, the heroic raccoon jumps into action and crosses the city by any means possible – climbing road signs, riding the tube, and sailing on a log across a river – all to reach the family home and put the toy under the Christmas tree.

Peter de Roos, Chief Commercial Officer at Lidl GB, says of the campaign: ‘At Christmas, there’s nothing more magical than seeing the joy a gift can bring to a child, and we want to help make sure this joy reaches all families.

‘Our hope is that by bringing back the toy donation points we are making it easier, for those customers who can, to donate directly to local good causes by giving them a small way to make a real difference and help those that need it the most.’

Alongside the release of the festive advert Lidl  also announced the return of its Toy Bank, a nationwide donation drive that last year saw over 80,000 toys donated to children who may not have otherwise received a gift. 

From today until 16th December, customers can drop off new and unopened toys and games, to be gifted to children that need support in their local area. 

In addition, the retailer will for the first time be selling toys of the festive advert stars – with all proceeds going to Neighbourly. Both the raccoon and the monkey are available in a super cuddly plush toy – perfect for any super fans or for generous customers looking for donation inspiration. 

M&S FOOD

Dawn French returns as the M&S Food fairy in this years festive advert and she is joined by Hollywood actors and Wrexham football club co-chairmen, Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds

The advert follows a young girls lost mittens called Left and Right look for some Christmas cheer

Fairy is determined to cheer up the mittens after they were separated from their owner Lilly and lost in the snow

Dawn French returns as the M&S Food fairy in this years festive advert and she is joined by Hollywood actors and Wrexham football club co-chairmen, Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds.

The ad follows a young girl’s lost mittens called Left and Right, who look for some Christmas cheer.

Fairy is determined to cheer up the mittens after they were separated from their owner Lilly and lost in the snow.

Fairy springs into action and introduces them to the magic of an M&S Christmas. 

They discover the very best of the retailer’s festive food, ending with a mouth-watering Christmas feast complete with all the trimmings. 

The mittens ultimately have their best and most delicious Christmas ever.

Voice of Fairy, Dawn French, said: ‘I’m so excited to be returning to my role as the Fairy this Christmas, and what a treat to bring to life some new friends, the lovable lost mittens ‘Left’ and ‘Right’! 

‘It was a delight introducing them to the joys of a British Christmas and a traditional fabulous festive feast.’

TK MAXX 

TK Maxx unveiled its fun Festive Farm Christmas advert which features a group of adorable animals cat-walking out of their barn in their stylish new TK Maxx outfits

First out the barn doors into the snowy scene is a turtle neck-clad alpaca busking a crossbody bag, swiftly followed by a pair of ducks rocking Harry Styles-inspired pearls, an elegant silk scarf and suave pink bow tie

The ad closes on an alpaca, smelling a divine designer candle before sneezing and blowing it out

TK Maxx unveiled its fun Festive Farm Christmas advert which features a group of adorable animals cat-walking out of their barn in their stylish new TK Maxx outfits.

As the iconic intro of Eve and Gwen Stefani’s early noughties hit Let Me Blow Ya Mind begins to play, we see a series of creatures strut through the snow, showing off their fabulous Yuletide presents.

First out the barn doors into the snowy scene is a turtle neck-clad alpaca busking a crossbody bag, swiftly followed by a pair of ducks rocking Harry Styles-inspired pearls, an elegant silk scarf and suave pink bow tie. 

Bringing up the rear is an irresistibly cute hedgehog scurrying out into the cold in a cosy pink cashmere woolly hat.

The iconic ‘lil’ goat’ makes its return from the 2020 TK Maxx Christmas campaign, joining the stylish winter parade. 

The farmer questions his wife: ‘Did you buy all the farm designer outfits? I thought we were keeping it small with the gifts this year?’. 

The wife replies, ‘Oh I did, love,’ and the pair share a laugh as they watch their animals sashay into the distance.

The ad closes on an alpaca smelling a divine designer candle before sneezing and blowing it out. 

Eagle-eyed viewers will also spot a festive Christmas bear on-screen, in the hands of the couple’s excited young granddaughter. 

From the retailer’s festive charity gifts collection, a donation of £3.00 from the sale of each bear, which is priced at £9.99, will be donated to help TK Maxx’s long term partner, the Princes Trust, continue transforming the lives of thousands of young people.

Deborah Dolce, Group Director commented: ‘Our festive campaign celebrates everything our customers love about TK Maxx at Christmas. We know people want to show friends and family they care with beautiful, quality gifts, but we also know most of us are still watching our finances carefully.’

BAILEYS

Emmy Award-winning Hannah Waddingham has starred in Baileys’ Christmas advert, alongside the Gold Vocal Collective, who play the choir 

The rim of the martini glass is dipped in chocolate sauce, then coated with shortbread crumbs, before the indulgent cocktail is poured in

Emmy Award-winning Hannah Waddingham has starred in Baileys’ Christmas advert, alongside the Gold Vocal Collective, who play the choir.

The actress takes on the role of conductor in the joyful 20-second commercial. 

It kicks off with the star suggesting the choir break for a Baileys, leading up to their harmonious acapella performance as the brand’s signature Christmas ‘Choctail’ is prepared.

The rim of the martini glass is dipped in chocolate sauce, then coated with shortbread crumbs, before the indulgent cocktail is poured in.

To complete the presentation, a shortbread snowflake serves as a garnish, followed by a cheerful toast from the conductor to the camera. 

WAITROSE

Graham Norton makes his entrance, wearing a tuxedo and carrying an assortment of desserts in the ad 

A glamorous couple are hosting a Christmas party, with each guest bringing an impressive dish – from panettone to turkey

Waitrose’s first Christmas campaign with new partners Saatchi & Saatchi has the brand promise of Food to Feel Good About at the core of its creative

The 90-second advert features TV presenter Graham Norton and showcases a selection of festive food and drink offerings

Waitrose’s first Christmas campaign with new partners Saatchi & Saatchi has the brand promise of Food to Feel Good About at the core of its creative. 

The 90-second advert features TV presenter Graham Norton and showcases a selection of festive food and drink offerings. 

A glamorous couple can be seen hosting a Christmas party, with each guest bringing an impressive dish, with items from panettone to turkey on offer.

Every inch of the house is adorned with extravagant decorations, including a dazzling Christmas tree, standing in the bay window of the living room.

Guests, decked out in sequined mini dresses and sharp suits, start dancing to the party anthem Just Can’t Get Enough by Depeche Mode.

Graham Norton makes his entrance, wearing a tuxedo and carrying an assortment of desserts.

Suddenly, one partygoer stumbles, sending a decadent platter of mince pies into the air – but fear not, they are swiftly rescued.

Two police officers knock on the front door, but when they catch a glimpse of a pudding in the hallway, say: ‘Excuse me, we’ve had multiple reports of a…Florentine-inspired panettone.’

Then, a power cut causes the entire property to plunge into darkness. 

But one woman, holding a cheese plate, reassures guests, saying: ‘It’s okay everyone, there’s more cheese!’ 

Cheers erupt from the guests as they resume dancing in the dimly lit room.

Meanwhile, Graham Norton enjoys a mince pie while reclining on the sofa. 

SPORTS DIRECT

The Sports Direct advert features Little Legend Macy (pictured, left), a young girl whose Christmas wish is to become the best sports star in the world

Brazilian footballer Gabriel Jesus also has a starring role

Conor Benn shows off his boxing skills

Footballer Mason Mount makes an appearance too

Sports Direct has partnered with some of the UK’s biggest sports talent for their Christmas advert.

It features Manchester United’s Mason Mount (for the third year running) who leads up line-up including Lionesses Alessia Russo and Lauren Hemp.

They join Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale and his teammates Eddie Nketiah and Gabriel Jesus alongside Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Ez.

More footballers come as Spurs star James Maddison makes an appearance while boxers Johnny Fisher, Conor Benn and sprinter Zharnel Hughes complete the line-up.

Entitled Dream Big, the campaign opens with Little Legend Macy, a young girl whose Christmas wish is to become the best sports star in the world. 

Macy fulfills her desires by becoming a champion boxer, athlete and footballer – competing with a host of famous faces.

In the boxing ring, she transforms into a towering figure, dwarfing male contender Conor Benn. Next, Macy goes head-to-head with an athlete on the track, where she successfully distracts him to secure a victory at the finish line. 

Then, on the football field, she becomes a goal keeper, performing a dramatic leap to block a penalty shot.

Macy is met with congratulations from Mason Mount – leaving her utterly astonished when she returns to reality. Back in her living room, there’s a knock at the door. It’s Brazilian footballer Gabriel Jesus, holding a huge present. 

M&S 

M&S’ Christmas advert relies on celebrities such as Hannah Waddingham (pictured), Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Tan France and Zawe Ashton bring their star power to the campaign

‘Twas the month before Christmas and Marks & Spencer has dropped a surprise with festive advertising which is sure to jingle some bells. 

In a television campaign, M&S appears to be encouraging shoppers to do what they want this Christmas, instead of being hidebound by endless chores, the demands of others and the tyranny of festive perfection.

Using a starry line up of singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor, actresses Zawe Ashton and Hannah Waddingham, and TV star Tan France, the M&S missive for 2023 is to put yourself and your own needs first.

Thus we have Sophie turning a kitchen blow torch she is using to toast the meringue roof on her giant gingerbread house, onto a pile of unwritten Christmas cards and gift tags. 

‘I’ll do anything for love, but I won’t do that,’ sings a Meatloaf-alike on the backing track, as a bonfire of goodwill erupts on Sophie’s kitchen table. 

Meanwhile Zawe Ashton, best known for her role in Channel 4 sitcom Fresh Meat, loses the will to live playing charades to a sofa full of people who don’t understand her mimes. 

In a plot jump that isn’t really explained, Zawe is suddenly on the roof of her home, going full Tarantino in her sequins, using a roll of wrapping paper like a baseball bat to whack a blameless elf across the city skyline.

At a party somewhere else, Tan France — the fashion expert from Netflix hit Queer Eye — is wearing a white bow tie. 

Cue Hannah Waddingham, Ted Lasso actress and Eurovision Song Contest co-host, and the real star of this show, a glamorous character who wants to sneak out of the house to do something – but has to stay at home and glue cotton wool balls onto a snowman instead

Using a starry line up of singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor (pictured), actresses Zawe Ashton and Hannah Waddingham, and TV star Tan France , the M&S missive for 2023 is to put yourself and your own needs first

At a party somewhere else, Tan France — the fashion expert from Netflix hit Queer Eye — is wearing a white bow tie 

Zawe Ashton is suddenly on the roof of her home, going full Tarantino in her sequins, using a roll of wrapping paper like a baseball bat to whack a blameless elf across the city skyline

At the end of the clip, Hannah goes outside to throw all her party hats and festive baubles into a woodchipper 

He sighs at the style affront, but still puts a child’s hideous loo roll angel on the top of his tree instead of the tasteful star decoration he prefers. 

But he draws the line at playing board games. Enough is enough, he thinks, before throwing a tantrum and said game into a tropical fish tank.

Cue Hannah Waddingham, Ted Lasso actress and Eurovision Song Contest co-host, and the real star of this show, a glamorous character who wants to sneak out of the house to do something – but has to stay at home and glue cotton wool balls onto a snowman instead. 

That is until the madness grips her, and she goes outside to throw all her party hats and festive baubles into a woodchipper instead. Then Zawe’s luckless airborne elf lands at her feet, prompting a wicked smile on Hannah’s face.

ASDA 

He’s synonymous with Christmas – and this year Michael Bublé (pictured) appears on a festive advert for Asda

The teaser (pictured), which premieres this morning on ITV at 9.40am during Good Morning Britain, sees Asda colleagues relaxing in a break room mid-shift until they’re disturbed by an unusual ‘gurgling’ sound as the clock ticks to midnight

He’s synonymous with Christmas – and this year Michael Bublé appears in a festive advert for Asda.

Giving fans a sneak peek of its Christmas campaign, and a taste of what’s to come, Asda released a 60-second teaser that sees the singer make his merry debut as the retailer’s latest seasonal recruit.

The teaser, which premieres this morning on ITV at 9.40am during Good Morning Britain, sees Asda colleagues relaxing in a break room mid-shift until they’re disturbed by an unusual ‘gurgling’ sound as the clock ticks to midnight. 

Journeying through a stunning festive warehouse to find its source, they eventually reach a door marked ‘MB inside. Do not open ’til 1.11.23′. 

Journeying through a stunning festive warehouse to find its source, they eventually reach a door marked ‘MB inside. Do not open ’til 1.11.23′

As the door swings open, a lone figure is revealed, silhouetted in the spotlight: it’s Bublé, who turns to the camera and breaks into the classic ‘It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas’

As the door swings open, a lone figure is revealed, silhouetted in the spotlight: it’s Bublé, who turns to the camera and breaks into the classic ‘It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas’. 

‘”Shall we?”, he asks with a smile, before the ad reads: ‘Pop the Bublé, it’s officially Christmas.’ Asda’s full 90-second advert is due to air on 4 November.  

David Hills, Asda’s Chief Customer Officer, said: ‘At Asda, we absolutely love Christmas and this year we’re once again on a mission to bring that warm, festive feeling to households across the UK. 

‘Today, we’re putting the speculation to rest and confirming that the legend that is Michael Bublé is partnering with us this Christmas to put on a showstopping performance. 

‘With Bublé’s undeniable ability to spread seasonal smiles and our commitment to quality, at great value, we’re a match made in heaven, proving Asda is a one-stop-shop for families seeking magic this Christmas.’

ARGOS 

TV toy favourites Connie (pictured) and Trevor are the stars of Argos’s new Christmas campaign

Toy doll Connie, dressed in a glitzy pink jumpsuit, commands attention in the clip as she showcases the gifts on offer at the retailer during a dance performance. Trevor, a toy dinosaur (pictured), is supposed to be recording the stunning show – but instead he accidentally films the view of himself

TV toy favourites Connie and Trevor are the stars of Argos’s new Christmas campaign. 

Toy doll Connie, dressed in a glitzy pink jumpsuit, commands attention in the clip as she showcases the gifts on offer at the retailer during a dance performance.

Her trusty sidekick Trevor, a toy dinosaur, is supposed to be recording the stunning show – but instead he accidentally films the view of himself.  

The film ends as Connie cartwheels across the festive table asking, ‘please tell me you got that, Trev?’ but it is unveiled that Trevor has in fact been recording himself the entire time whilst Connie claps to herself proudly.

The tale, a modern day take on the classic ‘toys come to life’ narrative, builds on Argos’s brand platform – ‘There’s More To Argos’ – which launched earlier this year. 

The film ends as Connie (pictured) cartwheels across the festive table asking, ‘please tell me you got that, Trev?’ but it is unveiled that Trevor has in fact been recording himself the entire time whilst Connie claps to herself proudly

It aims to showcase the vast array of most-wanted products on offer from the retailer, from toys, home and beauty, to cutting-edge tech.

Developed by The&Partnership, the film was directed by Traktor and animated by Untold, with the characters voiced by People Just Do Nothing’s Ruth Bratt and This Country’s Charlie Cooper. 

The disco classic Le Freak by Chic is played to accompany Connie’s big performance.

Laura Boothby, Head of Campaigns at Argos, said: ‘There was no better way to show off what you can find at Argos this Christmas than bringing back our loveable and family-friendly characters Connie and Trevor. 

‘In a festive-themed adventure, the dynamic duo spotlight just a few of the incredible products our customers can buy this Christmas, and bring them to life in a witty and playful way – igniting the Christmas joy our customers can find at Argos.’

Matt Moreland and Chris Clarke, Creative Directors at The&Partnership, said: ‘We wanted to pull out all the stops for the latest Argos instalment. It is Christmas after all. 

‘So we teamed Connie up with some stylish merch, a world class choreographer, and a remix of one of the best disco tracks of all time. Surely nothing could go wrong?’

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