Asda has once again drawn criticism after Christmas confectionery appeared on its shelves in July. A TikTok video posted by the account UK Newest Foods on July 31 showed festive items including gingerbread-flavoured Malteser Mini Reindeers, Haribo Merry-Mix, and Cadbury Mini Snow Balls already available in store.
The early arrival of Yuletide sweets, alongside tubs of Quality Street and Celebrations, prompted a wave of reactions from shoppers. One commented: 'So wait? Halloween stuff is out? Easter stuff is still out? Christmas stuff is out? Have we all just collectively given up trying to judge the passage of time?' Another added: 'It’s July.'
However, some customers welcomed the early stock, saying it helps with budgeting. One TikTok user wrote: 'Great for people who need to budget they can start early.' Another joked about buying early but eating everything before December.
The move comes after Asda, the UK’s third-largest supermarket, reported a 5.8% sales slump during the 2024 festive season, according to Kantar data. Spending fell to £4.59 billion in the 12 weeks to December 29, down from £4.87 billion the previous year.
