Lidl’s Adorable Racoon Champions the Power of Small Gestures in Heartwarming Christmas Ad

Lidl has today announced the return of its Toy Bank, a nationwide donation drive that last year saw over 80,000 toys donated to children who may not have otherwise received a gift. The announcement comes as the retailer’s heart-warming Christmas ad, which premieres today during Emmerdale, reminds viewers of the power of small gestures. 

Brimming with Christmas spirit, the hotly anticipated advert tells the story of an adorable raccoon who goes above and beyond to make one little boy’s day extra special. 

The story begins when the raccoon looks curiously through a window to see a family excitedly decorating a Christmas tree - when the beloved family dog accidentally smashes the little boy’s favourite monkey Christmas decoration. 

Wanting to cheer her son up, the boy’s mother picks up a cuddly toy while doing the weekly shop at Lidl, but accidentally drops it on the cycle home. Having spotted the toy monkey stranded in the cold snow, the black and white striped protagonist jumps into action and crosses the city by any means possible - climbing road signs, riding the tube, and sailing on a log across a river – all to reach the family home and put the toy under the Christmas tree. 

The advert, which is being shown across Lidl’s international markets, reminds viewers of the huge impact that small acts of kindness can have during the festive season. 

Peter de Roos, chief commercial officer at Lidl GB, says of the campaign: “At Christmas, there’s nothing more magical than seeing the joy a gift can bring to a child, and we want to help make sure this joy reaches all families.  

“Our hope is that by bringing back the toy donation points we are making it easier, for those customers who can, to donate directly to local good causes by giving them a small way to make a real difference and help those that need it the most.”

From today until 16th December, customers can drop off new and unopened toys and games, to be gifted to children that need support in their local area. Donations can be anything - from a small stocking filler to something bigger. Sought-after items include toys, games, books, puzzles, and arts and crafts, for a range of ages.

In addition, the retailer will for the first time be selling toys of the festive advert’s stars – with all proceeds going to Neighbourly. Both the raccoon and the monkey are available in a super cuddly plush toy – perfect for any super fans or for generous customers looking for donation inspiration.