Alzheimer’s Society and ITV “Stripped away” by New Commercial Arts and ITV Creative
Alzheimer’s Society has joined forces with ITV to disrupt the broadcaster’s festive continuity announcements. Five bespoke idents begin in the style of ITV’s continuity spots with a voiceover by British TV presenter and Alzheimer’s Society ambassador Ruth Langsford. Images of city skylines and streets accompany her narration as Langford references the TV entertainment that makes “Christmas feel like Christmas”. The scenes are then stripped away, as Langsford explains how dementia robs people of the memories that make this time of year so special. The work was created by Jess Pacey and Alicia Job.
Durex and LadBible “The festive playground” (in-house)
Durex has created a CGI lube Christmas tree in the lead-up to the big day. The sexual wellness brand teamed up with LadBible as part of a brand partnership after investigating tensions for couples during Christmas. The Global Sex Survey found that 80% of couples have tried improving their sex lives with lubes or toys. Durex has challenged the taboos around sex by creating the Durexmas tree, an animation that shows a slide wrapping around a giant Christmas tree with lube rushing out of it, much like a water fountain.
McDonald’s "Festive McNugget" by Leo Burnett UK
McDonald’s has released a fun press and digital out-of-home ad on the lead up to Christmas. It shows a McDonald’s chicken nugget coated in two sauces, garlic mayonnaise and tomato ketchup, creating the illusion of a Christmas hat.
Sainsbury's “Have a gloriumptious Christmas” by New Commercial Arts
Sainsbury's has launched a series of outdoor installations as an extension of its Christmas campaign “Sainsbury’s BIG Christmas”, starring Roald Dahl’s BFG. The work features a giant 3D replica of the BFG peeking over a 96-sheet poster, which reads: “Have a gloriumptious Christmas”. It was created by Dan Bailey and Brad Woolf.
Paddy Power “A shirt’s not just for Christmas, it’s for life – outdoor” by Bartle Bogle Hegarty London
Paddy Power has released an out-of-home campaign to support its Christmas film, which stars actor Danny Dyer. A series of outdoor executions warn fans about the perils of giving someone a football shirt for Christmas. It pokes fun at football’s biggest clubs, with lines such as “Trophies not included” for Tottenham and “Wearing may cause misguided entitlement” for Manchester United. It was written by Katy David and art directed by Simran Sidhu.
Twix "Twixmas time" by T&Pm
Grime artist D Double E and influencer Nella Rose have teamed up to create the first-ever "Twixmas" song that aims to redefine the quiet days between Christmas and New Year. Twixmas Time is launching on TikTok on 27 December to encourage people to relax and embrace their downtime.
Deliveroo “Not long now Britain” by Pablo
Deliveroo has released a mini-Christmas campaign building anticipation for the final episode of Gavin & Stacey, airing on BBC One at 9pm on Christmas Day. The out-of-home is inspired by character Smithy (played by James Corden) and his curry order. It shows a Deliveroo bag with the order receipt attached, which reads: “1x Chicken bhuna, 1x Lamb bhuna, 1x Prawn bhuna, 1x Mushroom rice, 1x Bag of chips, 1x Keema naan, 9x Poppadoms, 1x Saag Alloo. Please deliver to the blue car out front. Tidy.” The work was created by Pablo creatives Flora German and Shivani Patel. There will be a Christmas special bundle available exclusively on Deliveroo from takeaway Brentwood Spice in Smithy's hometown of Essex.
Cushelle "Selfishly soft” by Publicis London and Global Street Art
Cushelle has unveiled two hand-painted murals in London and Manchester to spotlight how even Santa Claus needs to take a well-deserved break on the toilet. The big man is accompanied by Cushelle’s mascot, Kenny the Koala, as he perches on the porcelain throne reaching for a roll of toilet tissue. The mural features copy saying: “Everyone deserves a bit of me time.” The murals are live for festive shoppers in Mare Street, Hackney, and Thomas Street, Manchester, running until 6 January. The campaign was created by Rhys Hughes and Barret Helander with lead artist Neil Edward.
Intuit QuickBooks “Hero behind the heroes” by FCB London
Intuit QuickBooks has celebrated the role accountants play behind the scenes of a business in this Christmas campaign. A 30-second film shows Santa's elves working at full capacity to hit their Christmas deadlines. Santa, the chief executive, is in his office taking a call from his accountant, Alice. The work will run for two weeks spanning TV, with the 30-second ad as well as 20-second and six-second films, and social media. It was created by Ben Usher, Rob Farren, Matthew Baillie and Rabia Majid. The film was directed by Tiny Bullet through Arts & Sciences.
Crowntech “Crowntech_001 and Crowntech_002” by TheOr
TheOr has released a two-piece crown collection inspired by the traditional paper crown found in Christmas crackers. The collection’s use of repurposed waterproof fabrics allows the owner to endure the elements while maintaining Christmas cheer.
The crowns were handmade and designed by Daniel Gee and feature elasticated cinches for adjustable fit, dual pockets, heavy-duty impenetrable zips and carabiner clips. Each one comes stored in a waterproof pouch for optimum portability, and the Crowntech_002 edition also features a detachable balaclava for added protection against winter weather conditions.
There are two crowns available for purchase via the brand’s official website. Crowntech_001 is priced at £215 and Crowntech_002 is priced at £285. Crowntech will donate the entirety of the money from each purchase to mental health charity Mind Over Mountains.
Avanti West Coast "Safety first, with Safety Thirst” by Cubaka
Social media agency Cubaka’s campaign for Avanti West Coast focuses on customer safety during the festive season.
The work comes in response to research that found accidents on the mainline rail network, where intoxication is a possible factor, increase by about 45% during the festive period. In response, the rail operator has launched a limited edition low-alcohol beer.
A 30-second film features a staff choir in Stafford Station warning people to keep safe during the busy Christmas season.
Cubaka handled creative direction for the campaign, as well as production and post production of the film. It was directed by Harrison Joiner, social creative at the agency.
Trussell Trust “Christmas 2024” by Pangolin and 3 Heads Agency
Trussell Trust’s Christmas social campaign focuses on the statistic that one in five children in the UK are facing hunger and hardship. A 50-second film shows a child writing a Christmas list to Santa Claus, but instead of toys the child lists ingredients for a Christmas dinner. It ends with the line: “1 in 5 children are growing up facing hunger and hardship. Nobody should have to use a food bank. Help us end hunger together by donating today.”
Habitat “The very very nice list” by Future Creative and Drum
Running until 13 December, this multi-touch shoppable campaign celebrates British design and features a four-day festive pop-up with interactive content and exclusive workshops hosted by interior and lifestyle design experts from Ideal Home, Livingetc and Who What Wear.
“The very very nice list” includes a curated edit of 25 Habitat products. There will be workshops including table scaping and Christmas centrepiece making, showcasing Habitat’s design-led homewares and furniture.
TikTok shop and Hyde Park Winter Wonderland “Snowglobe studios”
TikTok’s shopping platform TikTok Shop joined forces with Hyde Park Winter Wonderland for a two-day live shopping showcase. TikTok Shop's Snowglobe Studios enabled shoppers to experience live shopping in-person at Winter Wonderland or allowed them to tune in from home.
TikTok enlisted influencers to help with the live streams: BearBurners went live on 12 December at 10am, Inkey List went live at 4pm on the same day, Ridiculously Rich by Alana went live on 13 December at 10am and L'Oréal Paris went live later that day at 3.30pm.
Kahlúa "Espressohoho martini bauble” by Wieden & Kennedy London
Kahlúa and Wieden & Kennedy London have created a limited edition "Espressohoho martini bauble”.
Actress Salma Hayek added the Christmas decoration to her holiday décor in an Instagram post.
Kahlúa put up 12 limited-edition baubles for auction on its EspressoHoHo Bauble Shop on eBay. All proceeds will support Kahlúa’s Coffee for Good initiative, launched in partnership with the Mexican non-profit Fondo para la Paz.
Mars Celebrations “#MyFavourite” by Ketchum UK
What’s the best chocolate in a Celebrations tub? Mars Celebrations asks this very question in its 2024 Christmas campaign.
The brand took to cities across the country, revealing the nation’s top chocolate picks and how deeply these preferences run. In Manchester, the research showed that nearly a third (31%) of Mancunians chose Snickers as their favourite. This led to a play on the city’s famous football rivalry. On derby day Celebrations unveiled a half-and-half red and blue football shirt. In Wales, Celebrations gave a nod to Welsh favourite Bounty by giving the red dragon a festive blue makeover in Cardiff.
Celebrations also placed digital billboards in key locations, keeping the debate alive.
Unicef Norway “Eeny, Meeny, Miny, Moe” by Accenture Song
Unicef Norway has emphasised the lottery of birth in this Christmas campaign.
Running in Norwegian and English, the film uses regional versions of the children’s counting rhyme, Eeny, Meeny, Miny, Moe, to symbolise the randomness of circumstances babies are born into. A series of five ultrasounds flicker across the screen as a child chants the rhyme. When it ends, landing on the chosen unborn child, a message appears on screen: “This Christmas, 1 in 5 children is growing up in war and conflict. A gift from you can save a life."
It was art directed by Marcus Lundvall and written by Rasmus Andersson.
Paddy Power “A shirt’s not just for Christmas, it’s for life" by Bartle Bogle Hegarty London
Paddy Power enlisted the help of actor Danny Dyer and sports promoter Eddie Hearn in this 110-second film. It follows Andy, a fan of fictional Hardlypool United, as he journeys through decades of support.
The film was directed by Chris Balmond through Outsider. It was art directed by Christine Turner and written by Kevin Masters.
BMW “The gift” by Jung von Matt Hamburg
This 100-second film tells the story of Tim, who wants to bring joy to his grandmother. BMW reflects on its journey toward the Neue Klasse by spotlighting the BMW 1500, which in the 1960s marked the dawn of a new era for the brand. The ad is designed to highlight how the joy of driving connects generations in more ways than one.
World of Tanks “Holiday ops” by Matter and Energy
This six-minute film for the game World of Tanks stars actor Jason Statham as Santa’s most unlikely stunt double. The short playfully explores a meta-film-within-a-film concept, with an explosive opening scene that gives way to behind-the-scenes chaos on a Hollywood movie set. With Santa Claus injured, the stunt double is summoned and Statham hijacks the production.
It was created by Andre Matarazzo and Jake Haynes, and directed by Nez Khammal through 100%.
Snapchat “Little joys” (in-house)
Snapchat has released a Christmas campaign exploring how the social media app can bring family and friends together throughout the festive period.
Out-of-home features copy saying “Christmas is for finally giving Gran a filter” and “You can’t choose your family but you can turn their heads into broccoli”. It was created by freelance creatives Damian Fitzgerald and Oli Cole.
Hackney Food Bank “Essential” by AML Group
Hackney Food Bank has released a trio of unconventional Christmas cards that substitute a snowman, baubles and a Christmas tree for a sanitary towel, baked beans and a washing up liquid bottle. They shine a light on UK poverty and how many people will struggle to afford even the essentials this Christmas.
The fundraising cards are available to purchase online at £8 for six cards, with all proceeds going to the food bank.
Boursin “Extraordinary begins with Boursin” by St Marks Studio
Cheese brand Boursin has released giant three-dimensional charcuterie boards in the form of out-of-home ads this Christmas. The work is located at Quaker Street and Westminster Bridge, London, and encourages people to unleash their inner host this festive season. Copy below the charcuterie board reads “Savour the spirit of the season” and “Share the magic of Christmas!”.
Big Give “Christmas challenge” by Shape History
Big Give, the UK’s largest match-funding charity, has launched the annual Christmas Challenge. Between 3 and 10 December, every pound donated to more than 1,250 participating charities will be matched, amplifying the impact of each gift and allowing supporters to double the difference they make this Christmas.
A digital and out-of-home campaign takes all the things that usually come in ones at Christmas time, like the star on the tree or Santa Clause himself, and clones them to show the magic doubling impact of the Christmas Challenge.
The Works “Time well spent” by Social Element
The Works, UK retailer of books, toys, games and arts and crafts, is championing the magic of togetherness with “Time well spent”.
At the heart of the campaign is Santa Pause, a blue-robed parent who gives away activities, crafts and toys that foster quality time. The Works teased the arrival of Santa Pause on social media with cryptic posts across TikTok and Instagram, featuring Santa Pause dropping gifts off to different families.
Toblerone “Whatever you gift, add a diamond (just in case)” by LePub Milan and Publicis Media UK
Toblerone has launched an out-of-home campaign highlighting how any gift can be improved with a bit of its chocolate to go alongside it. “Whatever you gift, add a diamond (just in case)” showcases the brand’s diamond-shaped product, the Toblerone Truffle.
TUI “‘Twas the Flight before Christmas” by Leo Burnett
Travel company TUI has released an illustrated children’s book building on last year’s festive campaign, exploring what happens to elves after Santa sets off on his trip around the world delivering presents. ‘Twas the Flight before Christmas is written in rhyming prose, with illustrations transporting the readers to Mallorca for a family holiday. The work was created by Matt Wood and Tom Loveless.
BBC “Wallace & Gromit idents” by Aardman Studios
Animated characters Wallace & Gromit appear in this year’s Christmas idents for the BBC. The work builds anticipation for the premiere of their new film, Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl. Three idents feature Wallace, Gromit, their latest invention – the "smart gnome" Norbot – and villain Feathers McGraw. Each 40-second film captures various festive moments shared between the characters. The idents were directed by Jay Grace through Aardman Studios.
Zalando “What do I wear?" by Mother
Online fashion and lifestyle retailer Zalando focuses on solving the festive dilemma of finding the perfect outfit in this Christmas spot. The campaign features actress Sofie Eifertinger, as she tries to decide on what to wear that evening while sporting just a towel post-shower. She wanders through various festive scenarios in the towel, looking for inspiration on what to wear.
Rightmove “North Pole” by Neverland
Rightmove has released a festive execution of its out-of-home campaign “Search terms” to get ready for the Christmas season. The poster hints at who might be searching for a new home as it depicts a trail of sleigh tracks and hoof prints alongside the search prompts: “Secret location. Workshop. Huge parking space”. It was created by Paul Yull and Gary Arnold.
Apple “Wallace & Gromit – shot on iPhone” by TBWA\Media Arts Lab
Apple teamed up with Aardman to bring animated characters Wallace & Gromit to life in London’s Battersea Power Station with a stop-motion film shot on iPhone. The animation was projected onto the Batter Power Station towers. This behind the scenes film showcases the work that went into the project and how the team used an iPhone to capture the story.
Check Your Drink “The safer sip coaster” by Paradise
Creative agency Paradise has launched a spiking awareness campaign in a bid to keep people safe this Christmas season. The campaign includes the distribution of “The safer sip coaster”, which includes a built-in drink tester, to London pubs. The coaster, designed in a vibrant red, features the festive message: “Stay merry & bright – but keep your drink in sight.” The coaster allows people to test their drinks instantly by applying a drop onto the integrated test paper. If the paper changes to orange, blue, or grey, the drink is unsafe and should not be consumed. The campaign was created by Nick Jekyll and Carly Dunne.
Boden “Team Icicles – in Christmas rappin’” (in-house)
Boden teamed up with synchronised ice skating champions Team Icicles GB to create this year’s Christmas campaign. The 15-second film shows the squad wrapped up in festive knits as they perform a specially choreographed routine to founder Johnnie Boden’s hand-picked Christmas track.
Guinness “The most wonderful pint of the year”
Guinness gets festive in this 15-second spot, which opens on a snowy scene outside a cosy pub. Copy appears on screen saying: “Happy holidays from the brewers at Guinness.” The camera tracks backwards to reveal the pub is inside a glass of Guinness, reminiscent of a snow globe, as the foam of the beer replicates the snow. It ends with the line: “The most wonderful pint of the year.”
Aldi “Merry Cuthmas” by McCann Manchester
To celebrate the launch of its festive Cuthbert chocolate treat, Aldi teamed up with Teenage Cancer Trust to put on a special Christmas choir outside a competitor store. The “Merry Cuthmas” choir lined up and sang a new Christmas track in Cuthbert’s honour including twists on festive classics such as Hark the Herald and Joy to the World.
Tenzing “Life’s too good for bad energy” (in-house)
Natural energy drink company Tenzing has launched its first Christmas ad, calling for the return of the original Santa Claus. The 60-second animation looks at the changing physique of Father Christmas, having signed a sponsorship deal with a famous sugary drink brand over 100 years ago. Santa has to make a decision, either continue with the cash or opt for a healthier alternative. The ad ends with the return of the original Santa, fuelled with double the energy after choosing to drink Tenzing.
Mox London “Chaos rules” (in-house)
Mox London has released its seasonal holiday campaign for Converse, featuring singer Charli XCX. “Chaos rules” reimagines holiday traditions with a rebellious twist, embracing the unhinged and unapologetic. The campaign unfolds in seemingly ordinary homes, only to reveal the chaotic, spirited preparations of Charli and her co-protagonists, shaking up the holiday norm. The work was created by Vilde Tobiassen and shot by Sharna Osborne.
Vodafone “40 years of Christmas on the nation’s network" by Leo Burnett
Vodafone has celebrated four decades of being the nation’s network in this year’s Christmas campaign. The film showcases the brand’s heritage since 1984 and follows the evolution of festive communication. It begins in the 1980s with brick phones and ends in the present day with smart phones, but one thing remains the same – how people's Christmas spirit is fuelled by staying connected. It was directed by Tom Speers through Smuggler, and created by Rob Tenconi, Matt Wood and Tom Loveless.
Apple “Heartstrings” (in-house)
Apple’s holiday-themed ad promotes the new AirPods Pro 2 and its accessible features. The 110-second film shows a father, with moderate hearing loss, watching his daughter opening her presents on Christmas Day. When she unwraps a guitar, he is taken back to memories of his daughter but the sound is muffled, indicating what he experiences. When his daughter starts playing guitar, he uses his AirPods Pro 2 to hear her music, and the sounds of his memories become clearer too. It was directed by Henry-Alex Rubin.
Aldi "Savoury suspect, an Aldi mystery" by McCann Manchester
In the lead-up to the release of part two of the Waitrose Christmas campaign, Aldi poked fun at the rival supermarket in this social media film. The work featured Aldi’s mascot Kevin the Carrot, and revealed that it was in fact him that stole the Christmas dessert.
Philadelphia "You’ve got a friend in Philly" by Ogilvy UK
Philadelphia has positioned itself as a friend during the high and low moments of the festive season. The work, running across social platforms like TikTok, YouTube, Instagram and Facebook, demonstrates how the product is there for the party, with fancy canapes and Christmas cheesecakes, as well as for the after-party with bagels smothered in Philly. The work was created by Sam Cartmell, Will Grooms and Ben Connell. It runs alongside the launch of the brand’s limited-time festive packaging, designed and created by Elvis Communications.
Quality Street “Rob Rinder puts Quality Street on trial” by Burson
British barrister and television host Rob Rinder stars in this Quality Street ad promoting how the confectionary brand is trialling a new paper packaging. The work plays on how changes to traditions such as the iconic Quality Street tin can enrage consumers by depicting various protests. Rinder is portrayed as a judge in the “trial” as well as the defence and the prosecution, with each side arguing why the paper tub is a good/bad idea. The work was created by Burson, Quality Street’s in-house creative and production teams.
Waitrose “Sweet suspicion – part two” by Saatchi & Saatchi
Waitrose & Partners has released the second instalment of its festive mystery, finally revealing who stole the Red Velvet Bauble Dessert. Dinner party detective Matthew Macfadyen talks through the possible reasons why someone might have stolen the dessert and how someone may have succeeded in such a delicious crime. It was directed by Lucy Forbes through Smuggler, and created by Joaquin Olascoaga and Bailey Alexandria.
Airbnb “Santastrophe” (in-house)
Airbnb highlights the differences between hotels and its offering in this 60-second Christmas spot, using Santa Claus as a narrative device. It shows Santa attempting to deliver presents to people staying in hotels and the challenges he encounters from locked doors to claustrophobic lifts. The animation was handled by Los Angeles design company Buck.
Crisis “The Christmas Coal Shop” by Department of Creativity
Creative agency Department of Creativity has joined forces with homelessness charity Crisis to launch “The Christmas Coal Shop”, which offers people the chance to send lumps of coal to colleagues, friends, family members and arch enemies. Every purchase from Santa’s Naughty List will raise funds to support those experiencing homelessness. The online shop offers different options for donation – ranging from £5 to £100 – with lumps of coal given pun-filled names including Coal Runnings, Macoalay Coalkin, and Coalilocks. Each lump can be accompanied with a personalised message, so recipients can know exactly why they have ended up on the Naughty List.
Thorntons “Uniquely Thorntons” by Mr President
Chocolate maker Thorntons has launched an out-of-home led campaign for the festive season, running now until 29 December. The work will hit high-impact locations, including Motion@Waterloo. The brand message “Uniquely Thorntons” features in the work, written in Thorntons' personalised chocolate trickle, which is drizzled over a wide selection of its chocolates. The outdoor is supported by social and online video. The campaign was designed by Kavanagh Reeves, shot by Colin Campbell, produced by Twin with typography by Alison Carmichael.
National Lottery “Musical scratchcards” by VCCP
Allwyn, operator of The National Lottery, has focused on scratchcards in this year’s Christmas campaign. The 90-second film depicts a family on Christmas day taking part in one of their traditions – musical scratchcards. A scratchcard is passed around the table to music, and when the music stops the person holding it has to scratch one off. Viewers do not find out whether the family wins, and instead appreciate the fun of their unique ritual. It was written by Katy Stanage and Alice Marani and directed by Steve Rogers through Biscuit Filmworks x Revolver. Media planning and buying was handled by Hearts & Science.
Moonpig “Christmas 2024” by Modern Citizens
Greetings card company Moonpig has showcased its personalisation features in this 30-second Christmas ad. It opens with the Moonpig mascot strutting down a snowy street. Stickers appear on its body, including a sprig of holly, which puts the little pig in the festive mood. The pig begins moonwalking as a message appears: “Love you to the Moonpig and back.” Family photos pop up on screen as a voiceover says: “Here it is. The UK’s most personalised Christmas card, with stickers, handwritten messages, photos and videos.” The pig, donned with antlers and tinsel, shoots through someone’s letterbox and transforms into a card. It was created by Rose Power and Niamh McBride, and produced through Glassworks.
Natural History Museum “Christmas party” by Lane & Co
The Natural History Museum plays on the theme of nostalgia in this year’s Christmas campaign. A series of still life photographs capture different Christmas party scenes, including tree decorating and board games. The scenes are given a historical twist, as toy dinosaurs are placed in the shots as well as a dinosaur design appearing on a Christmas jumper. The images will be used in store and online throughout November and December.
Waitrose “Armchair detectives" by Wonderhood Makers
Waitrose has launched the next phase of its social media campaign, starring actors Vicky McClure and Martin Compston from Line of Duty. The first film showed the pair watching part one of the Waitrose festive “whodunnit” ad, and treating it like a police investigation. This time, the duo further analyse the evidence and try to pin down who stole the dessert. It was directed by Amy Downes.
Coca-Cola “Create real magic experience” by WPP Open X
Coca-Cola has created an AI-driven digital experience as part of its “The world needs more Santas” campaign. Accessible through scanning the QR code on a Christmas bottle or can of Coca-Cola, the experience allows people to engage in conversations with Santa Claus or a snow globe avatar. Users are encouraged to create a personalised, shareable snow globe animation, based on a personal holiday memory, which can then be shared with a loved one. The “Create real magic experience” uses 3D avatar generation, GenAI enabled real-time conversation and image generation.
The campaign includes out-of-home executions featuring “Anyone can be Santa” messaging and Santa's shadow in everyday poses that the public can recognise from their own routines. The campaign was developed by WPP Open X, led by VML, supported by Ogilvy PR and EssenceMediacom, alongside Accenture, JKR, Silverside AI, The Wildcard and Secret Level Entertainment Studio.
Fortnum & Mason “A Christmas extraordinary” by Otherway
Fortnum & Mason debuts its Christmas collection “A Christmas extraordinary" – a collaboration between Olaf Hajek and Studio AKA. The design is showcased across more than 100 products, from handcrafted Christmas puddings to festive teas. Otherway worked with the brand’s in-house team to create a series of animated 15-second films featuring five hero products, with an additional 30-second film. They were directed by Marcus Armitage.
Stonegate Group and Heineken UK “Pub alone” by Pitch
Pub company Stonegate Group has joined forces with Heineken UK to spotlight how some people can feel lonely during the Christmas period. The two-minute film parodies Christmas classic Home Alone when a man is left to his own devices at a pub. He pours himself pints and eats as many crisps as he desires but he grows bored and wishes he could have someone to have a drink with. He is later joined by his friends and the pub fills up with people. Centring around Stonegate’s MiXR rewards app, the ad ends with the line: “Nobody should feel alone this Christmas. That's why we're donating £75,000 to Heineken UK's charity partner Marmalade Trust, to support people who feel lonely at Christmas.” It was created by Olly Abbott and Harry Allen, and produced through Hungry Man.
Papa Johns "Hangover help” by Bicycle London
Papa Johns and Bicycle London have released three 20-second Christmas spots illustrating how the pizza brand can provide a pick-me-up during the festive period. Each film features a Papa Johns driver singing a version of the carol Ding Dong Merrily on High, with the lyrics adjusted to each customer. For example, “Hangover help” shows a woman nursing a hangover after a Christmas do being serenaded at her door, with the lyrics: “Overdid it, didn’t you, last night?” The campaign also includes “Chaotic Christmas” and “Early celebrator”.
The ads were created by Scott Andrews, Leigh Gilbert and Graeme Douglas, and directed by Kyle Shepherd through Chief Productions.
Iceland “That’s why Santa goes to Iceland” by Supernova
TV personality Josie Gibson has starred in Iceland’s Christmas campaign, explaining why Santa shops at the supermarket.
The work is made up of three films, each spotlighting the different food on offer for various festive occasions, from Christmas dinner to party season. It was created by Suzi Napier, Jake Ainsworth, Barnaby Girling and Mark Robinson. Media was handled by the7stars.
The Big Issue “12 days of homelessness” (in-house)
Street paper The Big Issue has released its own version of The Twelve Days of Christmas. Narrated by ambassador Daniel Mays, the 90-second ad is a re-imagining of the classic festive song, but instead of partridges, geese, drummers and gold rings, the ad features real Big Issue vendors and frontline workers revealing the top 12 reasons that a person could find themselves homeless.
McDonald’s “The gift of McDonald’s” by Leo Burnett
McDonald’s spotlights the “satisfaction” that can come from a trip to the fast-food chain in this 60-second film. It shows two parents sitting in their car after a busy day of checking things off their Christmas to-do list. The tune Satisfaction by Benny Benassi kicks in when one of them sees the McDonald’s arches in the distance. As they drive towards it, the Christmas lights on the houses begin to flash in time with the beat.
It was directed by Nicolai Fuglsig through MJZ and created by Cicely Alderson and Lisi Davis.
Pepsi Max “ It can wait” by Sips & Bites
Pepsi Max encourages people to drop work and study in its Christmas campaign. The 60-second film shows an empty office and a deserted gym, illustrating how people have left behind the boring day-to-day and embraced the fun of the Christmas period. It was directed by Biceps through Outsider, written by Julia Mortimore and art directed by Lauren Kennington.
Carlsberg UK “Christmas jumper” by Fold7
Carlsberg UK has created some Christmas jumpers and debuted them in the style of a traditional football kit. The work follows last year’s Christmas campaign, when Carlsberg produced festive jumper mock-ups on social media. The creatives were Tom De Silva and Alex Bishop.
Sky “The little girl” by Sky Creative
Sky Cinema tells the story of a girl who finds inspiration in Christmas movies to ask a boy to the cinema. Throughout the 60-second ad, the girl is shown watching various Christmas films and repeating certain lines from them. It concludes when she asks the boy out by saying: “I feel warm around you. I’ll give you the moon. Come with me to the cinema, if you’ll have me.” It was directed by Vince Squibb and produced by Dulcie Kellett through Academy Films.
Hammerson “Silent night” by Unbound
Property development and investment company Hammerson has released a 30-second ad promoting Birmingham's shopping destination Bullring & Grand Central. The spot focuses on Christmas during the digital age, and highlights how people may be together, but it does not feel like they are “in the moment”. It depicts a montage of people on their phones, not speaking to one another throughout the Christmas period. The ad asks people to be present this year, stitching together clips of people mingling and enjoying each other’s company. It was created by Elspeth Lynn and Paul Hogarth.
JD Sports “The family portrait” by Uncommon Creative Studio
JD Sports and Uncommon Creative Studio have focused on families in this year’s Christmas campaign. Set to a bespoke edit of Wanna by Jamie XX, the 90-second film shows several JD Sports-affiliated celebrities sharing traditions with their real families and friends. The spot includes the likes of YouTube comedy streamers Beta Squad, Liverpool FC’s Trent Alexander-Arnold and mixed martial artist Paddy Pimblett. It was directed by Saman Aminzadeh and Elliott Power through Love Song.
The Entertainer “Ray” by Adam & Eve/DDB
The Entertainer and Adam & Eve/DDB poke fun at children’s fickle nature when it comes to toys in this 60-second ad. It shows a forgotten toy called Ray singing a cover of Roxette’s It Must Have Been Love. Ray is voiced by British indie musician Baxter Dury. Ray watches on as the child plays with other toys while others are left behind, forgotten. It ends with the line: “For the next love of their life.” The creative team was Matt Gay and Feargal Ballance and the spot was directed through MJZ Productions.
Babybel “The big cheesemas delivery” by Popcorn PR
Babybel has released a spoof Christmas ad to celebrate the return of its Maxi edition to supermarket shelves. The film shows two Morrisons security guards carrying out a special task. The pair are attempting to deliver a giant Babybel, sneaking the oversized round of cheese into the supermarket.
John Lewis & Partners “The gifting hour" Saatchi & Saatchi
John Lewis & Partners and Saatchi & Saatchi tell the story of two sisters in the 2024 Christmas campaign. The two-minute film follows one sister, Sally, tying to find the perfect present for her sibling. Set to Richard Ashcroft’s (The Verve) Sonnet, the ad opens with Sally frantically browsing in a John Lewis store. When she steps through a sea of clothes, she is transported back in time to revisit memories with her sister, in the hopes they will offer clues to finding the ideal gift. She travels through family Christmases, teenage arguments, social gatherings and childhood nostalgia until she finally figures out what to get her. It was directed by Francois Rousselet through Riff Raff.
Sports Direct “New traditions star here” (in-house)
Sports Direct enlisted the help of various sporting stars for this year’s Christmas campaign. It features former Chelsea footballer and manager Frank Lampard, England and Chelsea footballer Lucy Bronze, boxing promoter Eddie Hearn, England Rugby player Maro Itoje and endurance athlete Russ “Hardest Geezer” Cook. The spot follows one particular family and their relationship with sport. It was directed by Rory Wood through Smuggler.
Peta “The girl and the cow” by Atomic London
Animal rights organisation Peta (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) has released a film encouraging people to consider going vegan this Christmas. The 90-second film follows a young girl named Alice, who forms a special bond with a cow. She stumbles upon the animal while practising a Christmas tune for her school concert on her trumpet. She regularly performs for the cow, but on the day of the concert, she discovers the cow has disappeared. It cuts to the cow being led up a trailer ramp, as Alice slowly realises that her friend may never return. It was directed by Andrew Poole at Atomic London and created by Sam Isaacs and Walaa Ellabib.
Coca-Cola “Holidays are coming”
The Coca-Cola Company has used AI to bring a twist to its 1995 classic “Holidays are coming” ad. The 15-second film follows the famous Coca-Cola truck delivering the soft drink to people in a festive and snowy town.
Nespresso “Unforgettable festive moments” by Studio 99
Nespresso has teamed up with David Beckham in this 40-second festive ad. Set to the song Stars & Snowflakes by Sylva, the ad opens with Beckham preparing a cup of coffee, when he notices a sad snowman in his garden. He decides to go outside and cheer it up by giving it a makeover with a pair of goalkeeper gloves, a red scarf and hat. Instead of a carrot, he uses his last remaining orange Nespresso Inizio capsule as the snowman’s nose. It was directed by Giorgio Bruni through Studio 99 and created by Richard Walker and Alexander Ball.
The Gym Kitchen “Feel the festive magic with food” (in-house)
Healthy meals brand The Gym Kitchen has released a 90-second spot showing Santa feeling the pressure when a last-minute Christmas letter arrives from a little girl, Naomi. Santa scrambles to get Naomi’s gifts with the clock ticking down but everything on her list seems to be sold out. Just when he is about to give up, a familiar face, who has “been there before", offers Santa one of The Gym Kitchen’s Christmas sandwiches. With each bite, Santa’s festive spirit returns. It was directed by Richard Kattah through Little Drops Productions.
Christian Aid “Hold On To Hope” by Impero
Christian Aid is joining the race for the Christmas number one spot with the launch of Hold On To Hope, a single in collaboration with London rapper Jords. It shines a light on communities impacted by conflict such as civilians in Gaza and Lebanon and refugees who have fled violence in Sudan. All royalties from the single will go to Christian Aid to provide emergency aid to those experiencing conflict and support peacebuilding initiatives. It was created by Alec Carluen and Sophia Tassew.
Tesco and Mail Metro Media “Gingerbread scented cover wrap”
Mail Metro Media teamed up with Tesco to help feed commuters’ Christmas spirit with this gingerbread scented cover wrap. It taps into into Tesco’s 2024 Christmas campaign by Bartle Bogle Hegarty London, which showed the world transforming into gingerbread. 50,000 copies of the festive-smelling front pages of the paper were hand distributed in cities across England and Scotland. This also included a pop-up in London Victoria – a gingerbread experience complete with a choir dressed in Tesco Christmas jumpers, singing festive classics.
Agent Provocateur “AP Christmas 2024”
Luxury lingerie brand Agent Provocateur joins forces with model Abbey Clancy and footballing legend Peter Crouch in this 130-second film. Shot in London at The Marquis Cornwallis pub, the ad is a playful update of the brand’s 2015 “Love me tender” film. It shows Clancy waiting for Crouch in a hotel room, sporting some of the brand’s lingerie. When she texts him and doesn’t hear back, she storms into the pub and ensures he won’t be missing date night again. It was directed by Greg Williams in collaboration with creative director Sarah Shotton.
Disney "The boy & the octopus" by Adam & Eve/DDB
Disney’s annual Christmas short by Adam & Eve/DDB follows the unlikely friendship formed between a little boy and an octopus.
When he goes swimming in the ocean on holiday, an octopus attaches itself to his head. The little boy readjusts to life with the octopus and the two become (literally) inseparable, as they practise martial arts and explore the Christmas market together. When the octopus shows signs it wants to see the world, the little boy hatches a plan involving Santa.
It was directed by Taika Waititi through Hungry Man.
Tesco “Helping feed your Christmas spirit” by Bartle Bogle Hegarty London
Tesco and Bartle Bogle Hegarty London explore how people’s Christmas spirit can ebb and flow in this three-minute film.
Set to On Melancholy Hill by Gorillaz, it follows Gary through his day to day life as the world transforms into gingerbread during the festive season. His enthusiasm for the holidays dips when he’s reminded of his grandmother, who recently passed away. His Christmas spirit is restored when he makes a gingerbread house with his grandad.
The film was directed by Alaska (Marco Lafer and Gustavo Moraes) through Iconoclast and created by Felipe Guimaraes, Ieva Paulina and Camila Gurgel.
Starbucks “Drink in, breathe out” by TBWA\London
Starbucks provides people with a peaceful haven from the Christmas madness in this 30-second animation. The ad features a blend of 3D sets, stop motion and animated 2D characters, as a man encounters an endless stream of Christmas tasks and activities, from parties to shopping trips. When he walks into a Starbucks, the chaos of Christmas is replaced with calm and relaxation.
The ad was directed by Andy and Adeena through Blink Ink and created by Ben Brazier, Johnny Ruthven and Dan Jones.
Waitrose & Partners “Christmas whodunnit” by Wonderhood Makers
This social campaign for Waitrose & Partners ties in with the “Sweet suspicion” Christmas campaign, a whodunit-style mystery centred around a missing dessert.
It features Line of Duty actors Vicky McClure and Martin Compston watching the first part of the mystery. They discuss who might be guilty, beginning an enthralling investigation.
Waitrose & Partners “Sweet suspicion billboard” by Saatchi & Saatchi
To create buzz around its “Sweet suspicion” campaign, a two-part series following the mystery of a stolen dessert, Waitrose & Partners and Saatchi & Saatchi have released this special build. The billboard takes the form of an evidence board, featuring photos of the suspects and tinsel connecting them to various pieces of evidence.
Carib Breweries “Home for the holidays” by Accomplice London
Carib Breweries and Accomplice London continue the brand’s Christmas narrative from last year about a local bus driver who is alone at Christmas. Shot on location in Trinidad and Tobago, the two-minute film follows a son’s desperate attempts to make it home in time for Christmas. It was directed by Rogue’s Max Fisher through Rogue and written by Julia Taylor.
O2 “Snowing sims” by VCCP
O2 spotlights data poverty as well as its National Databank in this 60-second Christmas film. Set to Snowfall by Ingrid Michaelson, the film highlights the difficulties of life without mobile data. A young man working in a kitchen cannot complete his studies, a father and daughter are unable to stream something to watch while they’re on a coach journey and a woman struggles to stay in touch with her loved ones. However, when a flurry of snow appears above them, it is revealed that the snowflakes are actually sim cards.
It was directed by Stefanie Soho through Smuggler in partnership with Girl & Bear, and created by Ben McCarthy and Seb Housden.
Lidl “Freeway truck”
Lidl has poked fun at Coca-Cola’s iconic Christmas truck in this ad. It opens with the driver, Nick – who resembles another famous festive Nick – strapping on his boots and donning a Lidl hat. He loads the Freeway truck, Lidl’s cola drink, with crates of the beverage. “And that’s Nick hitting the road,” he says. “Haven’t you heard? The holidays are coming in under budget.”
Lidl “A magical Christmas”
Lidl grants people’s Christmas wishes in this festive ad, spotlighting the Lidl Toy Bank. It opens with a little girl sledging, but she stops when she sees another child shivering in the snow. She bumps into a woman with Lidl shopping bags, who gives her some bells to hang on the Christmas tree. The bells give her family the power to make wishes, and her brother wishes to replace the Brussels sprouts with cookies and her sister brings her toy raccoon to life. The little girl wishes that her gift, a Lidl hat, can be given to the little boy so he can enjoy sledging with her.
Matalan “It’s the most wonderful time of the year, right?” by McCann
Matalan celebrates everyday family heroes in this year’s Christmas spot. Created by McCann, the 30-second ad introduces viewers to the Mellings, a family of five, striding into Christmas in their best party gear. Party moments are interrupted by relatable everyday scenarios, from tantrums over board games to running out of festive wrapping at the last minute.
M&S Clothing & Home “Christmas starts here” by Mother
M&S Clothing & Home and Mother bring a Christmas makeover to a boring household in this 90-second spot. The ad features Skylar Blue, who took part in the 15th series of Britain’s Got Talent in 2022, as she dances through the house to the track I Believe in Miracles by Jackson Sisters. She spots a snow globe in the corner of the room and tilts it, causing the room around her to move. She uses the snow globe to give her surroundings a Christmas sparkle. It was directed by Elliott Power through Love Song.
Barbour “Shaun the Sheep x Baa-bour" by Aardman Studios
Barbour has partnered Aardman Studios for a Christmas campaign once again, welcoming back Shaun the Sheep. The 70-second stop-motion animation features Shaun and his flock as well as the Farmer's dog, Bitzer. Bitzer is shown attempting to lead a choir, but the sheep’s “baas” are silenced due to the cold. The dog has a brain wave and takes a trip to Barbour to buy them hats and scarves. The spot ends with the line: "Give the gift of warmth with Baabour." It was directed by Steve Harding-Hill.
Chelsea FC “Wrap up warm”
Chelsea FC tackles issues surrounding homelessness in its 2024 Christmas campaign. Based on the insight that almost 12,000 people were sleeping rough in London last year, the campaign features the Chelsea family with players from the men’s and women’s squads. The likes of Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, Central Cee and Blue Suggs star in the ad alongside Cole Palmer, Sam Kerr and Christopher Nkunku. It shows a young fan encountering these figures and by the end, Palmer gives him a coat, as a call to action asks viewers to leave the cold to Cole. The film was written and directed by Peter Franklyn Banks through Kode.
Asda “The gnome of Christmas market”
Following Asda’s Christmas film “The gnome of Christmas”, the supermarket is opening a Christmas market, designed for gnomes. Asda’s gnomes have descended on London’s South Bank to open a Christmas market, where the stalls are manned by real-life people who appear to be three-and-a-half feet tall. The event is open on 7 and 8 November and will feature five miniature market stalls, all tailored to match the individual passions and personalities of each gnome.
Boots “The Christmas makeover” by VML/The Pharm
Boots has enlisted the help of Bridgerton star Adjoa Andoh in this year’s Christmas ad. Andoh plays Mrs Claus and the ad shows the real brains behind the operation. It opens with Mrs Claus walking in to find Santa Claus asleep, so she takes things into her own hands with the help of the elves in their “Werk Shop”. It was directed by Dave Meyers through Radical.
Greater Anglia “Christmas lights” by Atomic London
Greater Anglia and Atomic London encourage people to travel by train this Christmas to enjoy the festivities. The 30-second spot shows a family turning on their Christmas lights, but when some of the lights do not switch on, the message “Hello Father Christmas” humorously spells out the words “Hello fart” instead. The family are then guided by the brand’s mascot, the Red Hare, to board a Greater Anglia train bound for London, where they are treated to the festive sights of the South Bank. It was directed by Ivan Bird through Missing Link Films.
Cadbury “Cadbury advent” by VCCP
This out-of-home campaign for Cadbury by VCCP focuses on advent and the countdown to Christmas. VCCP created 24 unique out-of-home executions, each representing a day of the Cadbury advent calendar. The series of ads captures real family Christmas traditions, from placing the final ornament on the Christmas tree to the playful chaos of family charades. It was created by Kenneth Abalos and Samuel Adio.
Smyths Toys Superstores “Smyths toys” by Droga5 Dublin
Smyths Toys Superstores focuses on the “S-word” in this year’s Christmas campaign and the reaction children have when it is mentioned. When a parent utters the words “Smyths toys”, children from all around make their way to his house. He opens his front door to a crowd of eager children hungry for Smyths toys. It was art directed by Jessie Newman and Steve Clifford, written by Jess Murphy and Emmet Heneghan, and directed by Tim McNaughton through Arts & Sciences.
Amazon “Midnight opus" (in-house)
Amazon celebrates small acts of kindness in this 90-second film. It follows a theatre caretaker, who quietly sings to himself while going about his duties. His co-workers pick up on the hidden talent and arrange a surprise for him to feel like the star of the show. One of them orders him a tuxedo jacket from Amazon, so he can look the part when singing What the World Needs Now Is Love, originally by Burt Bacharach and Hal David. It was directed by Wayne McClammy through Hungry Man.
Waitrose & Partners “Sweet suspicion – part one” by Saatchi & Saatchi
Waitrose & Partners and Saatchi & Saatchi have released the first instalment of a two-part Christmas campaign. The film stars actors Dustin Demri-Burns, Joe Wilkinson, Matthew Macfadyen, Eryl Maynard, Rakhee Thakrar and Sian Clifford. It focuses on a Christmas mystery, as a family gets ready for the big day when one of them realises the dessert is missing. Macfadyen launches an investigation to uncover who took the Red Velvet Bauble dessert. It was directed by Lucy Forbes through Smuggler and created by Brodie King and Ali Dickinson.
The Lego Group “Cataclaws” by Our Lego Agency
This 105-second film celebrates the importance of play, as Lego creates a new festive character “Cataclaws”. It shows adults getting reading for Christmas but the stressful atmosphere is disrupted when the kids introduce them to their new creation, Cataclaws, a festive cat made of Lego. Cataclaws brings joy and excitement to boring situations and ensures everyone is full of Christmas spirit. It was directed by Brazilian directing duo Alaska through New-Land.
Etsy “Waldo” by Orchard Creative
Etsy brings children's book character Waldo to life in this 60-second ad. It tackles a problem that Waldo often encounters when he’s out and about: people often ask “where’s Waldo?”, not “who is Waldo?” The film shows Waldo roaming about crowded places as passers-by excitedly declare they’ve found Waldo, but he still doesn’t feel truly seen. It concludes with the character being given a handmade gift from Etsy, and feeling like someone finally sees him.
Greggs “Greggs x Nigella Lawson” by Drummond Central
Greggs has teamed up with television cook Nigella Lawson this festive season to bring a twist to its usual menu. A social media film shows Lawson arriving home, telling the viewers that Christmas is her “favourite time of year”. She talks people through how much she loves the food, later revealing that she is simply talking about the Greggs festive bakes.
Yankee Candle “Make it more magical” by Modern Citizens
Yankee Candle explores the feeling that comes with smelling one of the brand’s candles at this time of year in this 30-second ad. It shows a woman on her way home from work, but as soon as she sniffs out the scent of a Yankee Candle, she begins to float home back to her family, as if by magic. It was directed by Christian Bevilacqua through Milk Machine.
King’s Cross “Shop off-piste” by Elvis
King’s Cross aims to drive footfall, visits and brand awareness this Christmas with this campaign. The platform continues last year's ski-inspired vibe, but with some of the attitude of this summer’s "Shop it like it’s hot" campaign. Selected executions spotlight items available to buy in King’s Cross, with products nestled in the mountains and shown at huge scale, along with models wearing clothing from some of the destination’s retailers. The campaign was art directed by Sam Hinckley and written by Chris Lawlor.
Dobbies “Christmas, in every sense” by Elvis
Dobbies encourages people to visit the garden centre for a multisensory shopping experience. The 20-second ad shows a family visiting Dobbies during the festive season, as a voiceover explains how the shopping experience appeals to all the senses, from sight to touch. It ends with the line “That’s Christmas you can feel. Dobbies, Christmas in every sense.” It was directed by Ben Lankester through Form and created by Elli Stone and James Bougourd.
Shelter “World of our own” by Don’t Panic London
Homelessness charity Shelter shows the realities of temporary accommodation in this year’s Christmas ad. The 75-second film shows a father and daughter exploring an alien world. However, it cuts to the realities of their temporary living situation when someone walks past their front door shouting about their quality of life. The campaign was born from the insight that more than 150,000 children are currently homeless and living in temporary accommodation. It was directed by Nicholas Goffey and Dominic Hawley through Outsider.
Harvey Nichols “Cable all the way” by The Berry
Harvey Nichols has partnered "The World of Tim Burton" exhibition, now on display at the Design Museum in London. The 60-second Christmas film features a character named Robot Boy, who wakes up on Christmas morning to find presents left by the big man. Excited to see the Harvey Nichols gifts and mince pies, Robot Boy rushes toward a massive present but is halted when his power cable unplugs. Santa returns with Robot Boy’s final gift – an extension lead. It was directed by The Berry Boys and created by lead animator Alan Towndrow.
Sainsbury's "Sainsbury's big Christmas" by New Commercial Arts
Sainsbury’s has launched its highly anticipated Christmas spot, bringing the magic of Roald Dahl’s beloved character, the BFG, to screens in a festive, food-inspired campaign. The ad stars a real Sainsbury’s food services assistant making her acting debut as the character of Sophie. It was directed by Sam Brown through Rogue Films and created by Ian Heartfield, Dan Bailey and Brad Woolf. Media planning and buying were handled by PHD.
John Lewis “Give knowingly" by Saatchi & Saatchi
John Lewis released the second instalment of its Christmas campaign trilogy. "Give knowingly" celebrates customers making thoughtful choices when it comes to Christmas gifts. The 30-second spot focuses on a pink John Lewis cashmere jumper and the role it plays in that person’s life. It was directed by Chris Hewitt through Knucklehead and created by Mia Silverman, Iki Choi and Will Griffin. Media planning and buying was handled by OMD.
Argos “Rockstar" by T&Pm
Argos welcomed back its brand mascots, Trevor the dinosaur and Connie the doll, in its Christmas 2024 spot. The 40-second film opens with Trevor (voiced by This Country’s Charlie Cooper) playing guitar in front of a dancing crowd of Connies (voiced by Just Do Nothing’s Ruth Bratt). The guitar solo ends abruptly as the dinosaur wakes up from a dream. Connie gives him a Marshall speaker, wishing him a merry Christmas. It was directed by Michael Gracey through Partizan and created by Matthew Moreland and Chris Clarke.
Debenhams “Duh, Debenhams” by Exposure
This 30-second hero film opens on a rainy day where a woman is getting soaked by the rain. Her carrier bags break and spill her shopping all over the pavement. She screams: “Why does Christmas have to be so hard?” Actress Elizabeth Hurley appears to give people the secret to an easier Christmas: “Duh, Debenhams, darling”. Smart Media handled the media planning and buying.
Asda “The gnome of Christmas” by Havas London
Asda enlisted the help of some animated gnomes to get ready for Christmas this year. The 90-second film introduces five gnome characters, who embody the spirit of Christmas festivities. Gnomes from across the country help transform an Asda store into a festive wonderland. It was directed by Brian Buckley through Hungry Man and created by Alex Jones, Emily Camacho, Oscar Frost and Muskaan Razdan. Media planning and buying was handled by Spark Foundry.
Aldi “Kevin the Carrot's Christmas mission" by McCann UK
Aldi brought back its carrot character Kevin this Christmas, as the mascot embarks on a task to rescue the Christmas spirit from a crew of humbugs. Kevin is joined by his wife Katie on the mission, as he manoeuvres past various booby traps to outsmart Dr Humbug and her henchmen. It was directed by Todd Mueller and Kylie Matulick through Psyop and created by Clive Davis and Andy Fenton.
Morrisons “The greatest show at home” by Leo Burnett
Morrisons has revisited its singing oven gloves this Christmas, but has gone bigger by including 26 Morrisons colleagues belting out You Give a Little Love from Bugsy Malone. It was directed by The Greatest Showman’s Michael Gracey through Partizan and created by Gareth Butters and Kimberley Gill. Wavemaker UK handled media planning and buying.
M&S Food “Christmas food” (in-house)
Actress and comedian Dawn French returns as the Christmas fairy in this year’s M&S Food campaign, but this time, French also appears as herself. The 90-second spot is the first in a series of six executions. It shows French and her fairy counterpart getting ready for the Christmas celebrations, decorating her living room and creating a fabulous feast made up of M&S Christmas food with the wave of a wand. The creative was led by Rich Robinson, M&S Food’s head of creative, and Robbie Black, M&S’s head of marketing. It was directed by MJ Delaney through Merman.
Kettle Chips “The must-have bag this Christmas” by Ogilvy
Kettle Chips taps into high fashion for its 2024 Christmas campaign. The fashion shoot pastiche features a flamboyant male model posing with a bag of Kettle Chips, with copy reading: “The the must-have bag this Christmas”. The work is Ogilvy UK's debut campaign for Valeo Foods UK, the trading name for Kettle Chips.
Freemans "Style squad" by MullenLowe
Sophie Ellis-Bextor stars in online retailer Freemans’ Christmas spot, as her "Style squad" pulls up in a red, vintage-style Freemans van on a snowy Sleigh Street. Ellis-Bextor rings people’s doorbells and graces them with gifts to get them in the Christmas spirit. The ad uses Ellis-Bextor’s Freedom of the Night track. Media strategy and outputs were developed by the7stars.
Cadbury “Secret Santa” by PinPep
Cadbury has placed giant chalk drawings of Santa on remote hillsides across the UK. The artworks, which feature a “Shh” gesture, have appeared in the South West near Bideford, Devon and North West near Penrith, Cumbria. Next to each one is a QR code to scan for a "sweet secret". The artworks are part of the Cadbury Secret Santa postal service, where people can secretly send loved ones a free bar of chocolate.
