Des O’Connor stars in Tesco Christmas campaign

Tesco has enlisted veteran entertainer Des O’Connor to star in its Christmas advertising campaign. As part of the deal Tesco will exclusively sell O’Connor’s new album in its stores.

The ads, created by Red Brick Road, will air at the end of the month, featuring O’Connor walking through a winter wonderland filled with Tesco Christmas offers as he performs a version of the classic Christmas Song Chestnuts Roasting.

Tesco claims there has been a revival in sales of real chestnuts this year. Buyer Paul Cunningham says: “We’ve seen a 20% uplift on a year ago – a couple of years ago, nobody wanted chestnuts but we’re seeing a real revival in this most traditional of Christmas treats.”

Tesco commercial director Richard Brasher says O’Connor appeals to all generations and “sets the tone perfectly for the feelgood Christmas our customers want this year at the prices they need”.

O’Connor’s new album, Inspired, is a collection of romantic ballads and swing sounds. It will be available in Tesco stores and on Tesco.com/digital.

O’Connor says: “It feels like the time is right to celebrate the return of the romantic ballad and big swing sounds. Performing a traditional Christmas song as well for the TV ad has been great fun so I hope it puts a smile on people’s faces.”