Overview

• Asda rolled out packets of Maltesers Mini Reindeers, Haribo Merry Mix and Cadbury Mini Snow Balls in stores and online at the end of July, five months ahead of Christmas.
• The supermarket’s spokesperson said searches for Christmas products begin as early as August and that spreading festive spending helps customers budget more effectively.
• TikTok users reacted with disbelief at premature stocking, and some praised the chance to purchase treats gradually to manage tight household finances.
• Sarah Coles from Hargreaves Lansdown noted that retailers have been launching Christmas lines in August for years, making Asda’s timing broadly consistent with industry practice.
• The British Retail Consortium forecasts food inflation to hit 6% by year-end, heightening pressure on households to spread festive spending, and Asda’s move follows last year’s 5.8% slump in its Christmas sales.