Supermarket giant Morrisons has introduced a new rule for the World Cup, offering free oranges to children as a nostalgic nod to grassroots football. The initiative, dubbed the 'half-time rule,' will be in place across 497 UK stores.
Free Oranges on Match Days
Morrisons confirmed the move to celebrate the 2026 World Cup, with the promotion starting on June 14 in Scotland and June 17 in England. On match days for England and Scotland, children visiting Morrisons can pick up free oranges at the Market Street counters.
The fruity freebie will be available on June 19 and June 24 in Scotland, and on June 17, 23, and 27 in England. Morrisons has a history of giving away fresh fruit to children, and this time it pays homage to the classic football tradition of oranges at half time.
A Nostalgic Tradition
Jacob Uren, senior citrus trader at Morrisons, said: “Encouraging children to enjoy fresh fruit has long been important to us at Morrisons, and orange slices are such a nostalgic part of football culture. We hope our free oranges help keep little fans refreshed, energised and ready to cheer on England and Scotland this summer.”
Scotland's World Cup campaign began with a 1-0 win over Haiti on Sunday. The Tartan Army will next face Morocco on June 19 and Brazil on June 24. Meanwhile, England take on Croatia on June 17, Ghana on June 23, and Panama on June 27.
Support for Young Fans
A Morrisons spokesperson said: “Whether the family is screaming at the telly from the sofa, throwing a wild match-day party, or the kids are chasing their own football glory in the back garden, Morrisons is making sure young supporters stay match-ready.”
The oranges will be available to little shoppers on Morrisons Market Street on select dates while stocks last. Welsh fans will not miss out, as customers visiting Morrisons stores in Wales can pick up free fruit for kids at their local Market Street as usual.
