eCommerce & Christmas: Battle of the ads

When it comes to Christmas, everyone talks about the Christmas advert campaigns! Who is out on top this year as eCommerce retailers aim to stand out?

As an eCommerce & digital recruitment agency, we always keep our eye on the latest campaigns. While it might be a little early to be writing this blog, the retailers have already decided it's never too early. In fact, it's heart-warming to see festive cheer being spread after a very different Christmas last year. 

For a little light relief, we want to share some of the campaigns and adverts that have caught our eye so far!

John Lewis goes Sci-Fi

The John Lewis Christmas advert goes viral almost every year...just ask poor John Lewis on Twitter. (He shares his name with the retailer and his mentions blow up every Christmas!)

This year, they've gone for a sci-fi take as a space traveller crash lands on Earth. The alien soon learns about Christmas traditions and we think it's a great twist on the Christmas ad!

Percy Pig gets his voice

For those of you who shop in Marks & Spencer's, you might be a fan of their famed Percy Pig sweets. This year, he is the star of the Christmas advert and is voiced by none other than Spider-Man star Tom Holland.

This year, M&S went digital with their teasers. At Christmas, retailers will often go down the traditional broadcasting route to get audiences of all ages in the Christmas spirit. M&S however, started with a huge push on TikTok to attract a younger audience. It's great to see a multi-channel approach in what is usually a traditionally TV heavy advert season.

Lego embraces the creativity of children

Christmas is a magical time for kids and LEGO embrace this fully in their Christmas offering. It features scenes of Star Wars stormtroopers running away from insects and a dragon who puts out fires, rather than starting them.

The work, developed by the brand's in-house team The Lego Agency, will run across TV, digital, Spotify, Snapchat, OOH, social and eCommerce. It will also appear at Lego stores, which will offer shoppable sets that inspired children in the film. A great omnichannel approach for a Christmas campaign! 

Asda on ice!

The supermarkets definitely compete strongly at this time of year, enticing people to do the big Christmas shop in stores or online. Many are agreeing that Asda have skated out in front...literally.

Set to an ice skating theme, Asda didn't want to focus solely on the food. They wanted to explore everything people missed out on last year and show they can now embrace that magic once more. It's a nice thought after the events of 2020!

What's your favourite Christmas campaign?

We'll be keeping an eye on all of the campaigns as the big event approaches. Brands will be going all out across social, video and TV to execute successful omnichannel campaigns this year!