SHOPPERS have shared their devastation after noticing a popular M&S drink has vanished just months before Christmas.

Eagle-eyed customers have raised concerns after its pre-mixed cans of Pink Gin and Tonic have been removed from stores.

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Taking to X, formally known as Twitter, an upset customer said the news was a “crime“.

They wrote: “Discontinuing its tinned pink G&T’s is a crime against all the beautiful and fun-loving people.”

The alcoholic beverage has been a hit with shoppers for over a decade but was quietly axed from stores at the end of last year.

The 25cl tin contained 8% gin and was infused with cranberries.

One shopper described it as their “go-to” tipple on social media.

Meanwhile, another said it tasted like “strawberry jelly” and was their “favourite thing ever”.

But now an M&S spokesperson has confirmed to The Sun that the pre-mixed cans are no more.

M&S Spokesperson said - ‘At M&S Food we are constantly innovating and refreshing our range, reacting to trends, and customer feedback.

“We are famous for offering a great selection of cocktails in a can, with new flavours including the delicious Blood Orange Margarita and Cherry Mai Thai, with more exciting launches in the pipeline. ”

They added: “Although the Pink Gin & Tonic is currently not available, we always listen to customer feedback when reviewing future ranges”.

It is not unusual for M&S to switch up its product ranges.

Last week, The Sun revealed its vegan range was undergoing a major revamp, which would see meat alternatives sold alongside traditional meat products.

As part of the change, products such as the Plant Kitchen Margherita Sourdough Pizza will not return to stores until January.

This has not impressed some customers with one describing it as a “terrible” idea in a Reddit post.

Earlier this year the store said it would axe some of the treats from its Colin and Connie sweet range as part of a product relaunch.

Over the summer, M&S scrapped its Colin and Connie “Together Forever” sweets.

M&S also confirmed that it is quietly axing the Colin The Caterpillar Fizzy Rainbow sweets.

The sweets were rainbow in colour with a sour sugary coating.

What else is new at M&S?

Thankfully, it is not all doom and gloom for M&S shoppers as the retailer confirmed it will bring back an iconic drink this Christmas.

The supermarket’s original snow globe gin liqueur will make a return for the holidays after a hiatus.

Previously, the gin came in two flavours – Clementine and Spiced Sugar Plum – but this year, only the Clementine one will be sold.

The store has started rolling out its entire Christmas range to shoppers, which includes hot honey over halloumi in blankets brie brulee, and Turkey Feast dip.

M&S’s food-to-order range for the holidays is also now open for online orders and collection between December 22 and December 24.

Why are products axed or recipes changed?

ANALYSIS by chief consumer reporter James Flanders.

Food and drinks makers have been known to tweak their recipes or axe items altogether.

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They often say that this is down to the changing tastes of customers.

There are several reasons why this could be done.

For example, government regulation, like the “sugar tax,” forces firms to change their recipes.

Some manufacturers might choose to tweak ingredients to cut costs.

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They may opt for a cheaper alternative, especially when costs are rising to keep prices stable.

For example, Tango Cherry disappeared from shelves in 2018.

It has recently returned after six years away but as a sugar-free version.

Fanta removed sweetener from its sugar-free alternative earlier this year.

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Suntory tweaked the flavour of its flagship Lucozade Original and Orange energy drinks.

While the amount of sugar in every bottle remains unchanged, the supplier swapped out the sweetener aspartame for sucralose.

How to Find the Best Breakdown Cover: A Complete Guide 

Choosing the best breakdown cover can feel overwhelming with so many options available, but understanding your needs and comparing the different providers will help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re looking for peace of mind during long road trips or simply need basic assistance for your daily commute, this guide will walk you through the best options, the average cost of breakdown cover, and how to save on your policy. 

What Is Breakdown Cover? 

Breakdown cover is a type of insurance that helps you when your car breaks down on the road. Depending on the policy you choose, it can include roadside assistance, vehicle recovery, and even cover for emergencies like flat tires or dead batteries. Understanding what services you need and how often you’re on the road will determine what kind of breakdown cover is best for you. 

Who Offers the Best Breakdown Cover? 

Several major companies provide breakdown cover in the UK, each with different levels of service. Here are some of the top contenders for the best breakdown cover in 2024: 

• AA: Often regarded as the best all-round provider, the AA offers 24/7 roadside assistance and a range of coverage options. They have an extensive network and quick response times, making them a reliable choice for motorists. 

• RAC: Another popular option, RAC offers comprehensive coverage with added benefits such as a fault report service to help diagnose the issue. They also cover cars, vans, and even motorbikes. 

• Green Flag: Known for their affordability, Green Flag is ideal for those looking for more budget-friendly breakdown cover without sacrificing service quality. Their recovery options are flexible, and they cover roadside assistance across the UK and Europe. 

• Admiral: Primarily an insurance provider, Admiral offers breakdown cover as an add-on to car insurance. They provide competitive rates, especially for bundled policies, which we’ll discuss later. 

• Start Rescue: A lesser-known option but gaining popularity for its low-cost cover and positive customer reviews. Start Rescue offers different levels of breakdown cover, including European cover. 

How Much Does Breakdown Cover Cost? 

The cost of breakdown cover can vary widely depending on the provider, level of coverage, and whether you’re looking for single or multi-vehicle protection. On average, the cost for basic breakdown cover starts around £30 to £50 per year, with more comprehensive policies costing £70 to £150 annually. 

Here’s a breakdown of the typical cover options: 

• Roadside Assistance: The most basic form of breakdown cover, where your car is fixed on the spot or towed to a nearby garage if necessary. 

• Vehicle Recovery: Offers to tow your vehicle (and you) to your home or destination. 

• Home Start: Includes assistance if your car won’t start at home. 

• Onward Travel: Provides accommodation or a hire car if your vehicle can’t be fixed right away. 

You can also purchase European breakdown cover, which tends to cost more but is essential for those who frequently drive abroad. 

Should You Get Bundled Cover or a Separate Policy? 

When finding the best breakdown cover, one of the key considerations is whether to bundle it with your car insurance or purchase a separate policy. 

Bundled Breakdown Cover: 

• Cost-Effective: Bundling breakdown cover with your car insurance or even your bank account services can be cheaper. Many providers, such as Admiral and Direct Line, offer discounts when you take out multiple types of insurance or services together. 

• Convenience: Having both your car insurance and breakdown cover with the same provider means dealing with fewer companies, which can simplify the claims process and save time. 

Separate Breakdown Cover: 

• Tailored Services: Buying breakdown cover separately allows you to tailor your policy specifically to your needs. It also enables you to compare the best breakdown cover providers to find the best deal. 

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In many cases, bundling can save money, but it’s always worth comparing prices and services. Some bundled policies may not include all the features you need, so it’s essential to review the details carefully. 

How to Save on Breakdown Cover 

If you’re looking for the best breakdown cover at a reasonable price, there are several ways to save: 

• Compare Prices: Use price comparison websites to look at the rates and services of different breakdown cover providers. Sites like Compare the Market or MoneySuperMarket can offer deals exclusive to online shoppers. 

• Look for Discounts: Many providers offer discounts for new customers, online sign-ups, or for switching from another provider. Always check the provider’s website or ask if there are any promotional offers available. 

• Annual vs Monthly Payments: While it may be tempting to pay for breakdown cover monthly, it’s often cheaper to pay for the full year in advance. This can save you up to 10-15% depending on the provider. 

• Family and Multi-Car Discounts: If you have more than one car in your household, look for family or multi-car discounts. Many providers offer reduced rates if you need cover for more than one vehicle. 

• Evaluate Your Needs: Don’t pay for features you don’t need. If you only drive locally, for instance, you might not need a comprehensive policy with nationwide recovery. Similarly, if you rarely travel abroad, European cover might be an unnecessary expense. 

• Consider Cashback Offers: Some banks and credit card companies offer cashback or rewards when you purchase breakdown cover through their services. This can be a great way to save a little extra. 

• Automatic Renewals: Beware of automatic renewals, which often come at a higher price. Set a reminder to shop around for a better deal when your policy is up for renewal. 

The best Breakdown cover 2024

Finding the best breakdown cover doesn’t have to be difficult. Start by identifying your needs, comparing providers, and looking for discounts or bundled deals that can save you money. Whether you opt for a basic roadside assistance policy or a more comprehensive vehicle recovery and onward travel plan, there’s a wide range of breakdown cover options available to suit every budget and driving habit. 

Remember to regularly review your policy and ensure it offers the right level of protection for you. With the right breakdown cover in place, you can drive with the confidence that help is only a phone call away in the event of a roadside emergency.