WAITROSE is surprising shoppers by handing out free cuddly toys inspired by John Lewis’ latest advert.
Customers across the country have told of their shock and delight after receiving “Snapper” – the friendly venus fly trap – from Waitrose shopworkers and even delivery drivers.
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It’s thought that the character may have been a bit too weird and scary for kids to put on their Christmas lists and hasn’t sold out, like previous John Lewis festive toys have done.
But parents have been lapping up the chance to bag the £18 plush toy for free – with some families even receiving three.
In the “Overheard in Waitrose” Facebook group, one shopper said: “Well thank you Waitrose, I did my shopping at the checkout and was asked if I would like a free venus fly trap cuddly toy as a Merry Christmas from John Lewis and Waitrose…
“Don’t mind if I do – a very small little boy is very happy.”
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Another added: “I was also gifted a snapper cuddly toy at the checkout yesterday.
“I take my two-year-old granddaughter into my local Waitrose twice a week and she was thrilled with it.”
On X,formerly Twitter, one mum wrote to Waitrose: “Massive thank you to your customer service who gifted three snapper plush toys to my three boys this cold and miserable morning at your Swaffham store! Made our day :)”
Another wrote: “Thank you Waitrose Andover for a lovely surprise today. I was lucky enough to be given a free Snapper as I left the store.”
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But not everyone was so keen.
Richard Southworth wrote: “As I left the shop a rather embarrassed-looking employee thrust this free cuddly toy into my hand.”
This year’s ad features a boy who lovingly grows a plant from seed thinking it will be an amazing Christmas tree.
The advert, branded a tearjerker by fans, starts as eight-year-old Alfie picks up a seed to grow a “Christmas tree” at a flea market with his grandma.
But it turns out to be a friendly but fast-growing venus fly trap who is forced into the cold after growing too big for the house.
When its owners eventually take pity on it, the frost-covered plant perks up and showers them with gifts – starting a new family tradition.
Customers can also buy other items from the advert including a £18 plush plant, pyjamas ranging from £19 to £34 and a children’s storybook for £9.99.
Previous John Lewis ads have generated thousands of sell-out soft toys, including Monty the Penguin in 2014 and Edgar the Dragon in 2019.
Other Christmas advert-related toys are faring better this year.
Aldi‘s Kevin the carrot range sold out immediately last month, and Connie the doll – star of Argos‘ festive ad – is selling on eBay for £60, twice its shop price.
John Lewis said: “We’re really pleased with the response from customers to Snapper.
“The merchandise is proving very popular and, as part of our regular customer service promise, our Partners are able to surprise and delight customers with small gifts as part of our ‘on us’ customer service programme.
“It’s something we’ve done for many years and Snapper has been part of this.
“As you have seen on social media, our customers have really enjoyed this small act of kindness.”
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Elsewhere, to watch all the John Lewis ads through the years, read our round-up.
And, shoppers have been dashing to their nearest Aldi to pick up new Kevin the Carrot Christmas toys after they landed on shelves.
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