John Lewis’ 2020 Christmas advert signifies a new holiday narrative, with a message hinging on sharing love rather than presents. The retailer is leaning into consumers’ desire for more stripped-back Christmas messaging focused on the joy and solidarity that comes from simple acts of kindness.

The pandemic has forced people to reassess every aspect of their lives – including how they celebrate holidays. With the potential of further job losses and lockdowns, how can brands help Britons get in the festive spirit? From digital dinners to festive unboxing, the devil will be in the details.

Christmas shopping has started early in the UK as people look to get the ball rolling on what is likely to be the most disrupted of celebrations in recent memory. With people unsure whether they can see their family or afford their usual splurge, Christmas is already high on the agenda.

As COVID-19 lockdown measures have forced more people to rely on e-commerce, delivery channels have faced fresh challenges. Canvas8 spoke to Ken Allen, the author of Radical Simplicity, to understand how the pandemic could impact online shopping both in the short term and long term.