Sainsbury's has unveiled its 2026 Christmas advert, bringing back Roald Dahl's beloved character the BFG for a third consecutive year. The supermarket giant released the campaign on November 1, and it quickly drew reactions from viewers on social media.
Viewer Reactions to the Advert
As the trailer appeared on Sainsbury's official social media accounts, many viewers responded positively. One person commented: "I LOVE IT!!!!" while another added: "Absolutely love it, I'll be watching this on repeat." Others were equally enthusiastic, with one remarking: "Wow, this is better than last year's advert, brilliant!" and another saying: "Brilliant, well done, Sainsbury's."
However, some viewers voiced annoyance at the early timing. One person said: "Way too early for this," while another wrote: "Whoa, day after Halloween." Someone else commented: "It's literally November 1st."
The Storyline and Characters
The advert begins with the BFG feeling unwell and needing help. After admitting he will "miss Christmas this year," the Sainsbury's team springs into action. Annie leads a bold, high-speed delivery mission to ensure her giant friend can still celebrate the festive season, accompanied by her trusty sidekick Fred.
Their journey into Giant Country is not straightforward, as the duo must dodge enormous Squizzly Scotch-Hoppers and outsmart a ravenous Greedy Giant. Ultimately, they succeed in reaching the BFG's decorated cave, laden with treats for him to enjoy.
Gazing down at his friend, the BFG remarks: "Annie? You came all this way just for me?" With a warm smile, Annie gently reminds him, "Nobody should miss Christmas." The advert culminates in a touching scene as the three companions gather for a festive feast inside the BFG's home, ending with Sainsbury's pledge: "For everything that makes Christmas unmissable. Sainsbury's, good food for all of us."
Marketing Director's Comments
Radha Davies, Sainsbury's Marketing Director, said: "The BFG has become a much-loved part of Christmas for our customers, so we wanted to bring him back for another adventure this year."
Davies added: "At the heart of the story is a simple idea: nobody should miss out on Christmas. Whether that's Annie making sure her friend gets the festive feast he deserves, or the moments families create around the table, it's those acts of care and generosity that make Christmas special. Our Taste the Difference range plays a starring role throughout the advert because great food is often what brings people together. We hope this year's campaign delivers plenty of festive fun while celebrating the moments, people and food that make Christmas truly unmissable."