Asda shoppers were taken aback by the sight of Christmas chocolates lining the shelves in September, with many expressing surprise at the early display of festive treats. Despite the fact that summer had not yet come to an end, the UK supermarket chain decided to stock up on popular confectionery items well before the holiday season.
Reason for Early Stocking
According to the Mirror, Asda has justified its decision to offer Christmas chocolates in September as a way to help customers “spread the cost of Christmas.” By making these items available early, shoppers have the opportunity to purchase them in advance and save money through the Asda Rewards scheme. This move has been met with mixed reactions from the public, with some applauding the supermarket’s strategy while others question the necessity of stocking Christmas items so early.
Shopper Reactions
One shopper at an Asda store in Tamworth, Staffordshire, expressed shock at the sight of Cadbury Heroes, Celebrations, and Cadbury Roses on display in September. The shopper remarked, “Christmas seems to get earlier every year. Summer isn’t even over and Christmas chocolate boxes are already on display to buy. Who is really buying them at the start of September?” This sentiment was echoed by many others who found it unusual to see Christmas products so early in the year.
Asda’s Response
A spokesperson for Asda defended the early stocking of Christmas chocolates, citing the popularity of these items among shoppers who like to plan ahead for the holiday season. The supermarket’s Asda Rewards app offers discounts on these confectionery tubs, encouraging customers to start their Christmas shopping early and save money in the process. With over 6 million regular Asda Rewards users having already saved £36 million in their Christmas Saver Cashpot, it’s clear that the strategy is effective in meeting customer demand.
Social Media Reaction
While some shoppers were surprised by the early appearance of Christmas chocolates, others took to social media to express their approval of Asda’s decision. One user commented, “Asda really got their Christmas chocolates out already and it’s great.” This positive feedback highlights the fact that there is a market for Christmas products even in the early months of the year, with many consumers eager to stock up on festive treats well in advance.
Early Christmas Stocking Trend
Asda is not the only retailer to jump on the early Christmas stocking trend. Sainsbury’s, another popular supermarket chain, has also been spotted stocking Christmas treats months before the holiday season. This trend has sparked both amusement and frustration among shoppers, with some questioning the need for such early displays of Christmas products.
Public Reaction
Many shoppers have taken to social media to express their bemusement at the sight of Christmas products in stores as early as August. Some have jokingly questioned whether retailers have “lost the plot” by stocking mince pies and other festive treats so far in advance. Despite the general sense of surprise, it’s clear that there is a market for Christmas products year-round, with some consumers eager to get a head start on their holiday shopping.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the early stocking of Christmas chocolates at Asda has left shoppers stunned but also intrigued by the opportunity to save money and plan ahead for the holiday season. While some may find it strange to see festive treats on display in September, the popularity of these products suggests that there is a demand for early Christmas shopping. As retailers continue to cater to this trend, it’s likely that we will see more stores offering holiday-themed products well before the traditional start of the festive season.