Tesco releases Christmas ad in July advising people to shop early to tackle costs

Tesco has released its first Christmas ad in July in order to encourage people to stock up early as a result of the cost of living crisis.

The supermarket released an ad which acknowledged they were slightly ahead of the mark, jokily writing: “What the jingle bell?”

“We know. We’re early,” the ad went on “But this year we want to help you spread the cost.”

The ad comes as Tesco has made changes so that Clubcard members can collect vouchers over the year and save them all to use in November, just ahead of the big Xmas shop. 

Tesco’s Christmas ad took people by surprise (Credit: Tesco)

Dubbed its Christmas Saver Scheme, customers will be able to spend said voichers on grocery shopping, fuel, and festive presents like toys and vouchers, all thanks to their Clubcard Rewards.

Alessandra Bellini, chief commercial officer for Tesco, said: “We know that many of our customers will be feeling the financial squeeze this year and could do with a little help towards Christmas.”

“With the average weekly shop for a family of four costing £99.40, shoppers could save at least 1,292 in points if they start saving today, which is the equivalent of £12.92, or an extra present under the tree,” a Tesco spokesperson added to Huffpost. 

Tesco wants people to start Christmas shopping early (Credit: Alamy)

Reacting to Tesco’s ad, some people praised the initiative, whilst others couldn’t help but poke fun. 

“You can very well suggest people should start their Christmas shopping now to help with the cost of living, Mr @tesco – but until you sell large bottles of Baileys for £12 and put the large tubs of Celebrations out I simply won’t,” wrote one. 

“You’re having a [laugh] I love Christmas but seriously @Tesco [too] soon,” said another. 

“Hottest day of the year and first Christmas advert spotted in paper @Tesco #Christmas #heatwave,” wrote a third last week, as they spotted the campaign. We can’t deny the timing was a little off on this one!

Whether you can face the idea of putting away for Christmas in July or not, you have to commend Tesco for thinking about everyone’s purse strings this year.

And pssst…it doesn’t mean summer is over just yet!