AS soon as the Christmas advert season began, all eyes were on John Lewis to see what it had in store.

But it seems another retailer has stolen viewers’ hearts this year.

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As the Christmas ads start rolling, most of us begin to start getting into the festive spirit – and we also tend to shed a tear or two.

John Lewis has become well-known for its emotional and heartwarming Christmas adverts.

But the real tear-jerker this year isn’t the usual suspect, with some people saying Tesco‘s three minute advert is far better than the John Lewis Campaign.

The ad follows a man called Gary who is trying to navigate Christmas while mourning the loss of his grandmother.

It touches on how the festive period can cause conflicting emotions for many people who are missing a loved one.

The soundtrack for the ad is Melancholy Hill by Gorillaz, and it opens with Gary visiting his grandfather, then pans to a flashback of him visiting his late nan.

He gets up to leave, and at the door his grandfather hands him a packet of Tesco gingerbread men.

Taking a bite of one of the biscuits, Gary’s world transforms into a magical Christmas landscape where sugary treats burst out of every corner.

But when he thinks about the absence of his grandmother, his festive dreamland begins to crumble.

So, Gary decides to rekindle a Christmas tradition he had with his grandmother by sitting with his grandfather and building a gingerbread house.

The pair are seen to “rebuild” their lives after the loss, as the ad finishes with the entire family sitting down and having Christmas dinner together.

The table spread features glimpses of Tesco’s festive range including a turkey and pigs in blankets.

Becky Brock, group customer director at Tesco, said: “We want our Christmas campaign to connect people with the joy of moments that help feed our Christmas spirit and showcase how Tesco can help you do just that.

“We appreciate that even if you love Christmas, there can be
little things that eat away at your Christmas spirit as well as things that help to feed it.”

People went crazy for the short film on social media, celebrating its ability to connect with viewers.

One person wrote on X: “The Tesco Christmas ad is AMAZING!”

Another person said: “I’ve just watched the Tesco Christmas ad and it’s completely correct and has got the tone right.”

While someone commented: “Tesco Christmas ad is all about the spirit of Christmas. Normal people, normal lives.”

A fourth warned: “Check it out, it’s the best I’ve seen so far – but I dare you not to shed a tear.”

The usual tear-jerker on the block, John Lewis, has faced much less praise this winter season.

Another X user wrote: “@JohnLewisRetail That was a bad Christmas ad, I’m sorry but Tesco wins it this year.”

John Lewis is famous for pulling on the heart strings at Christmas time, previously spending as much as £7 million on a single campaign.

It spent almost that much this time round, and is classed as the biggest advertising event of the year.

In its two minute long advert for 2024, named The Gifting Hour, the story line follows a woman’s urgent hunt for a gift for her sister.

For the first time in 17 years, the John Lewis store actually features in the mini-film.

The ad, created by Saatchi & Saatchi, follows the woman, named Sally, rushing around the John Lewis shop floor.

Then she is transported down memory lane, and she tries to navigate childhood memories and pick up clues on what to buy her sister.

When she finds the perfect gift she reenters reality and find its already wrapped.

She then heads outside and shares a special moment with her sister, followed by the strap line: “The secret to the perfect gift? Knowing where to look.”

John Lewis purposefully leaves the contents of the gift a mystery to emphasise sentiment over material value.

However the heart-warming message fell short, with one person posting on X: “That’s it, Christmas is ruined. The John Lewis ad is quite comfortably the worst one yet.”

Another said: “Very disappointed, I wanted the John Lewis Christmas ad to make me cry and give me a sense of family and home.

“I have loved all previous ads because what sets them apart is they never actually focused on shopping, this year you have.”

Some viewers weren’t impressed by the song choice for this year’s ad.

One person wrote on X: “Where’s the slow emotional cover we usually get?”

Despite usually using a cover version of a famous song for its adverts, the campaign opts for The Sonnet by The Verve sung by the original band members.

It serves as a nod to the 90s, which has had a major resurgence this year.

It has also been left open to the audience as John Lewis searches for a coverstar on TikTok – and legendary lead singer of the band Richard Ashcroft will help pick the new star.

The winner will record and release their own track with BMG and a version of the advert with their rendition will be played on TV on Christmas Day. 

They will also win a £3,000 shopping spree and tickets to a Richard Ashcroft headline show in 2025. 

Proceeds from the single will be donated to the John Lewis Partnership’s Building Happier Futures programme, which helps care-experienced people. 

This year, the advert is the final instalment of a three-part series, to relaunch the chain’s Never Knowingly Undersold pledge.  

It will air first on John Lewis’ social media platforms at 8am tomorrow, but MyJohnLewis members can watch it from 8am on the John Lewis website. 

It will be broadcast on TV during the ad break for Coronation Street on ITV at  8.45pm on Friday November 15. 

Others weren’t impressed by the lack of men visible onscreen throughout the John Lewis advert.

An X user wrote: “No mention of men in the advert. According to John Lewis men don’t shop or have families.”

On GB News, Dr Renee Hoenderkamp complained: “There’s no men in it. There’s no brothers, no husbands, there’s no grandpas – it’s all women.

“Christmas is about family, which includes men and women.”

But other viewers saw it as celebrating women.

One X user said: “If you have just watched the John Lewis advert and have sisters you will totally get it – I sobbed.

“I am blessed to have the most amazing sisters and best friends”.

Another said: “The John Lewis Christmas ad is a celebration of women and it’s, quite frankly, brilliant!”

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California Unveils New Energy Rebates to Help Homeowners Cut Energy Costs

Eligible Californians can now save thousands on home energy expenses thanks to a new rebate program targeting energy-efficient upgrades. Announced by Governor Gavin Newsom, the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEEHRA) provide financial incentives for homeowners to install eco-friendly heating and cooling systems, marking the beginning of two federal programs aimed at supporting efficient and climate-resilient homes. These rebates, a product of the Biden-Harris administration’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), are part of California’s commitment to reducing energy costs, improving air quality, and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

Substantial Savings on Energy-Efficient Heat Pumps

Starting November 12, 2024, eligible single-family homeowners in California can apply for HEEHRA rebates on the purchase and installation of heat pump HVAC systems, offering a sustainable solution that can replace traditional electric resistance heating systems. The rebates, managed by the California Energy Commission (CEC), provide significant financial assistance, potentially saving households hundreds annually in energy costs.

Governor Gavin Newsom highlighted the dual benefits of these rebates, stating, “Thousands of dollars are now available for California homeowners to install heat pumps, making your home more energy-efficient and reducing your energy bills by hundreds of dollars each year. With these new rebates made possible by the Biden-Harris administration, Californians can save money and take real climate action.” Additional climate action programs are available at climateaction.ca.gov.

CEC Commissioner Andrew McAllister emphasized the efficiency of heat pumps, noting, “We’re excited to announce that owners of single-family homes may apply for HEEHRA rebates on the purchase and installation of an energy-efficient heat pump HVAC. These units make homes more comfortable and can reduce electricity use by up to 75% compared to electric resistance heating such as furnaces. They also work as air conditioners, which an increasing number of Californians now need due to the effects of climate change. HEEHRA helps put this dual-use clean technology within reach of more Californians.”

Eligibility and Rebate Amounts for California Homeowners

Californians can receive rebates ranging from $4,000 to $8,000, depending on household income relative to the area median income (AMI). Homeowners with incomes between 80% and 150% of the AMI may qualify for up to $4,000, while those with incomes under 80% AMI could be eligible for the maximum $8,000 rebate. Homeowners can check their AMI eligibility and begin the rebate application by visiting here.

The program also includes incentives for owners of multifamily buildings. The rebates for multifamily properties went live on October 8, 2024, expanding access to efficient appliances across a broader range of residents.

The CEC’s funding distribution for these rebates is a part of the TECH Clean California initiative, which aims to increase adoption of energy-efficient home appliances across the state. The rebates cover substantial costs for new heat pump systems and can be combined with additional incentives for further savings on electric appliances and equipment upgrades.

Expanding Energy Efficiency Statewide

The CEC’s proactive rollout of rebates reflects California’s leadership in environmental policy. The state has been an early adopter in providing energy efficiency rebates for multifamily buildings, and the expansion to single-family homeowners underscores its commitment to widespread climate resilience.

Keishaa Austin, Principal Deputy Director of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of State and Community Energy Programs, commented on California’s leadership, stating, “California was an early mover in setting up and launching their Home Energy Rebates. Now, mere weeks after making the program available for multifamily buildings, they are expanding it to single-family homeowners. Starting today, thanks to the California Energy Commission’s continued commitment to the residents it serves, low- and middle-income Californian homeowners can apply to save thousands of dollars on energy-saving heat pump HVAC units.”

For more details on the available rebates and eligibility requirements, Californians can visit techcleanca.com/heehra for guidance on the application process and to learn more about other incentives that may increase potential savings on energy-efficient home upgrades.

SHOPPERS have just a few hours left to buy a large one litre bottle of Baileys for the cheapest price around.

Fans of the Irish cream liqueur will be delighted that the cost has been cut to just £8.50 ahead of the festive season.

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Morrisons slashed the price of the popular tipple last week (November 8), but the deal is only available until midnight tonight.

Shoppers need to spend £45 or more in-store to get their hands on the discounted drink.

Baileys is famed for its smooth luxurious texture and distinctive taste.

With hints of chocolate and vanilla amongst the combination of Irish whiskey and Irish cream, it’s a tantalising mix.

Customers in England and Wales can get their hands on the beverage for £8.50, while those in Scotland can pick up a bottle for £11.05.

This is a 61% saving on the normal price tag of £22.

According to Britain’s coupon kid Jordan Cox, at this time of year there is always a Baileys price war among supermarkets.

He said: “The standard price drop is usually down to £10 for a 1L bottle… or £9.50 if we’re lucky. So for Morrisons to drop the price to £8.50 is quite astonishing!”

The Morrisons deal is especially good because supermarket prices have been naturally increasing over the years, he added. 

As a seasonal treat, Sainsbury’s also halved the cost of a 1 litre bottle to only £10.

The deal is only available to those with a Nectar Card as part of its Nectar Prices.

Meanwhile, Tesco Clubcard customers can pick up a bottle of Baileys for £13.

The offer is valid for delivery from now until December 9.

It’s worth noting that the prices of items including Baileys can change regularly and deal can start and end at any time.

Though £8.50 is the lowest price we’ve seen so far this festive season, Baileys could still be cheaper between now and Christmas.

Remember to always compare prices when shopping so you know you’re paying the right amount for what you’re getting.

A great way to do this is via the comparison site Trolley which will show the prices for every store.

Supermarkets have increasingly only offered these deals to shoppers who have registered for their loyalty programmes to encourage more people to register.

Shoppers have complained that this is annoying as they could previously get the offers without needing to sign up.

The Morrisons deal is also only available to shoppers who have joined the supermarket’s loyalty scheme and have a More Card.

It is easy to sign up for the loyalty programme, which is free to join.

Simply go to the Morrisons More website and enter a few details such as your address, email and mobile number.

Once you have registered you will be sent a More Card and can download the supermarket’s app.

You will then receive offers which will give you money off your next shop.

To get the prices in store just scan the barcode on your card or in the app.

You will also be able to earn points on your spending which can be converted into coupons.

Once you reach 5,000 points you convert them into £5 vouchers called “Fivers” which you can spend in-store or online.

If you do not have the app then your Fiver will be printed in-store.

When you scan your card or app you will also be in with a chance of bagging a “Basket Bonus” which could give you money off your next shop or free treats.

How else to save on Baileys

To make your pounds go further you could always opt for a Baileys dupe, which is similar to the real thing.

You can pick up a 700ml bottle of Ballycastle cream liqueur from Aldi for £4.99.

A litre of the beverage would cost £7.13, which would save you £1.37.

The Ballycastle range comes in several flavours including Chocolate Clementine, White Chocolate and Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter.

All these flavours can be picked up for £7.49.

Other supermarkets including Sainsbury’s, M&S and Lidl also have their own Baileys dupes.

Sainsbury’s 700ml Irish Cream Liqueur costs £13 but Nectar card holders can pick it up for £10.

It would cost £14.28 for a litre, making it more expensive than a bottle of the real deal from Morrisons.

Meanwhile, a 700ml bottle of Carthy’s Country Cream liqueur costs £6.70.

For a whole litre, it would set you back £9.57, making it more expensive than a bottle of Baileys from Morrisons.

Households Could Save Up to £1,500 a Year with Council Tax Reduction—Check If You’re Eligible

UK households are being urged to check their council tax status, as many could be missing out on valuable reductions worth up to £1,500 per year. With a range of discounts and exemptions available, a quick review could uncover significant annual savings and potentially lead to refunds on overpayments.

Could You Be in the Wrong Council Tax Band?

In England and Scotland, council tax is based on property bands, which often determine how much each household pays. However, thousands of properties may be incorrectly banded, leading to overpayments. If your home is in the wrong band, you could not only be entitled to a lower bill but also a backdated refund. Some households have saved considerable amounts after having their council tax re-evaluated.

To check if your property’s banding is accurate, compare it to similar properties in your area using government websites. A successful revaluation could mean ongoing savings and refunds totaling thousands of pounds.

Council Tax Reductions Worth £1,500 a Year

Certain circumstances can qualify households for reductions worth up to £1,500 annually, helping to ease financial pressures. Some of the most common council tax discounts include:

• Single-Person Discount: Households with only one adult resident can receive a 25% discount on their council tax.
• Student Exemption: Full-time students are typically exempt from council tax, potentially saving hundreds per year.
• Low-Income and Benefits-Based Discounts: Many councils offer reductions for low-income households or those receiving specific benefits.
• Disability Adjustments: Homes adapted for a resident with disabilities may qualify for additional reductions.

Residents are encouraged to check with their local council to explore these options and determine eligibility for these reductions, which can be life-changing for households seeking financial relief.

How to Claim Your Potential Savings

Checking eligibility for council tax reductions is simple and could reveal savings of up to £1,500 annually. Start by confirming your property’s band and exploring relevant discounts. You can contact your local council directly or use online resources to help identify potential savings.

If eligible, you may receive a lower annual bill moving forward and possibly a refund for past overpayments. Taking a few minutes to check could bring substantial relief, ensuring households only pay what they owe.

Aviva has reported that wealth net flows rose to £7.7bn in the third quarter of the year as demand for its adviser platform grows.

Platform net flows were up 76% to £3.1bn, reflecting strong growth in its financial adviser platform business, including Succession Wealth and Direct Wealth.

Aviva said in a trading update today (14 November) that it has achieved another quarter of “strong delivery and profitable growth” across all areas the business.

Protection sales increased by 44% following the completion of the AIG UK protection acquisition in April. The group’s general insurance premiums also rose by 15% to £9.1bn.

Retirement sales are up 67% to £6.1bn, driven by higher demand in the bulk purchase annuity market.

Amanda Blanc, group chief executive, said: “Quarter after quarter, we are delivering consistently superior results and growing Aviva, particularly in the capital-light businesses. General insurance premiums are up 15%, and wealth net flows of £7.7bn are 21% higher, reflecting continued growth in workplace pensions and strong demand from our financial adviser platform business.

“Aviva’s large and growing customer base is a major advantage, contributing to our excellent performance. Over the last four years we have increased customer numbers by 1.2m to 19.6m. We now have five million UK customers with more than one policy and, as the UK’s leading diversified insurer, the potential to grow this further is huge.

“Aviva is financially strong, trading well each quarter, and has significant opportunities for further growth. We are confident about the outlook for the rest of 2024 and beyond, growing the dividend and achieving the Group’s financial targets.”

MILLIONS of Apple iPhone and iPad users could be owed a £70 payout after a consumer group accused the tech giant of ripping customers off.

Which? claims the computer and electronics company is breaching competition law by forcing people to use its iCloud services.

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ICloud lets you securely store your photos, files, notes, passwords and other data.

It also acts as a backup in case you lose your phone or it is stolen.

But Which? says Apple has encouraged users to sign up to iCloud while making it difficult to use other products at the same time.

The consumer group claims Apple doesn’t let customers store or back up all of their phone’s data with a third-party provider, and they have to pay when the amount of data stored breach a 5GB limit.

Which? also says Apple customers are being overcharged for iCloud subscriptions.

It said this is partly because of the tech giant’s dominance of the market meaning it is difficult for alternative services to gain traction and offer competition.

The consumer champion is seeking damages for customers who have obtained iCloud services since October 1, 2015.

It estimates this is around 40million people, and that individual customers could be owed an average of £70.

However, you could receive more or less than this based on how long you have been using the iCloud service.

Which? chief executive Anabel Hoult said: “We believe Apple customers are owed nearly £3 billion as a result of the tech giant forcing its iCloud services on customers and cutting off competition from rival services.

“By bringing this claim, Which? is showing big corporations like Apple that they cannot rip off UK consumers without facing repercussions.

“Taking this legal action means we can help consumers to get the redress that they are owed, deter similar behaviour in the future, and create a better, more competitive market.”

A spokesperson for Apple UK said: “Apple believes in providing our customers with choices.

“Our users are not required to use iCloud, and many rely on a wide range of third-party alternatives for data storage.

“In addition, we work hard to make data transfer as easy as possible – whether its to iCloud or another service.

“We reject any suggestion that our iCloud practices are anticompetitive and will vigorously defend against any legal claim otherwise.”

What happens next?

Which? is urging Apple to settle the claim without the need to take the case to tribunal.

The consumer group is asking that Apple offers iCloud customers their money back and allows customers “real choice” of cloud provider.

If this doesn’t happen, Which? will ask the Competition Appeal Tribunal’s permission for the claim to proceed – what’s known as a “certification”.

A hearing would then be set for Which? to put its case forward.

There’s no guarantee that compensation will be issued to iPhone and iPad users – only if the case is won at tribunal.

You can register your claim and see if you could be eligible for compensation via cloudclaim.co.uk.

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