It’s officially that time of year again when the temperature drops and the Christmas adverts start appearing on TV. This week, supermarket giant Sainsbury’s has shared theirs with viewers and it’s guaranteed to get emotions going.
It features two old friends embarking on a journey together, along with showcasing all the yummy festive treats Sainsbury’s has to offer along the way and concludes with a voice-over from Stephen Fry.
In a TV first, the advert has a real-life supermarket colleague called ‘Sophie’ who is seen throughout with the lovable character the Big Friendly Giant (the BFG). Inspired by the famous tale of the beloved children’s author Roald Dahl, Sophie and the BFG will go on a whimsical culinary adventure.
It kicks off with the iconic character preparing food in his home cutting into a snozzcumbers before turning to the camera and asking Sainsbury’s how to make this Christmas more “Phizz-whizzing”.
Suddenly, a close-up of a Sainsbury’s name badge labelled ‘Sophie’ appears as a large thus is heard from behind her. Turning, she discovers the BFG in the carpark as his sneeze sets off the car alarms. As Sophie acknowledges that he needs their help, the pair set off together across the country as she’s seen being carried in his enormous bag.
They go in search of some great-tasting food, sourcing fresh produce from Sainsbury’s trusted suppliers with items such as salmon, Brussels sprouts and Stilton cheese on their list.
Once their escapades are over, the pair are back in the BFG’s dream cave where he’s laying down all the food they collected on their journey. As he magically transforms the ingredients into meals, he then sets off to deliver a deliciously festive spread to one family.
The advert concludes with Sophie and the BFG wishing each other a Merry Christmas as a voice-over says: “Want to go big this Christmas? Ask Sainsbury’s. Good Food for all of us”.
Coronation Street fans will get the first glimpse of it on TV when the 60-second clip plays during the ad break on Friday evening.
This festive advert launches the second year of Sainsbury’s commitment to providing ‘Good food for all of us’, which offers access to innovative and affordable, great-tasting food for each and every customer.
Speaking about the heartwarming advert, Head of Campaigns at Sainsbury’s, Emma Bisley, said: “The festive season is about making wonderful memories, and we’re here to help our customers create a truly unforgettable Christmas with family and friends, especially when it comes to food.
“At Sainsbury’s, providing good food for all of us is at the heart of everything we do. We want to offer a diverse range of high-quality food products suitable for any occasion, whether customers are looking for new holiday delights or classic festive favourites, Sainsbury’s has something to satisfy every taste and budget through this year’s Christmas range.
“Collaborating with the Roald Dahl Story Company this year was a remarkable opportunity to tap into the nostalgia and heartwarming spirit that the BFG embodies and hope that this advert captures the nation’s hearts and fills them with joy.”
Natalie Hopkins, the Director of Global Product and Partnerships at the Roald Dahl Story Company commented on the advert, as they hope the nation will be captivated to see two old friends back together for the holidays.
She said: “The BFG is perfect for Sainsbury’s mission to create a Big Christmas for all. Having only snozzcumbers to devour in Giant Country, his curiosity for good food leads to an adventure of discovery and wonderment with Sainsbury’s Sophie in order to bring the magic of Christmas to everyone.”
