Aldi makes a big change to popular Christmas hampers and says 'sorry'

In years gone by, Aldi has offered Christmas hampers for a fraction of the price of other retailers. But this year, as shoppers eagerly awaited news of when they could order online, Aldi has announced it is changing its hamper provision for 2024.

This year, instead of buying ready packed hampers, customers are encouraged to 'create their own luxury hamper for less'. The budget supermarket says it is offering its first ever Specially Selected takeover in the middle aisle.

The new range includes everything from Giant Florentines and Belgian Flaked Truffles to Roast Duck and Spiced Rum Crisps, with prices starting from just £1.15. There are even hamper kits on sale in stores for £6.99, which include the basket and the wrapping. But the news has not been welcomed by all shoppers, to which Aldi has replied 'sorry'.

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Upon posting a video of DIY hamper ideas on its Facebook page, one customer said: "I wish you would do online hampers again - so good for sending to relatives!" Aldi replied, saying: "Very True. They were great, but they had to go when we put our online service to bed. No public facing logistics, I am afraid" then adding "Sorry about this."

Another shopper begged: "Please, please bring the hampers back so they are available as a Specialbuy instore - they were brilliant." Aldi responded with 'we can certainly pass on the suggestion Heather!'

Aldi has listed its hamper ideas for under £10

• Specially Selected Teas (£3.99, 125g)

• Specially Selected Belgian Flaked Truffles (£2.99, 200g)

• Specially Selected Black Truffle Hand Cooked Crisps, Specially Selected Roast Duck with Spiced Rum Crisps or Specially Selected Lobster Thermidor Crisps (£1.15, 150g)

• Specially Selected Seasonal Chutneys (£1.39) in Spiced Apple & Pear (200g), Fig, Honey & Orange (215g) or Spiced Plum & Blackberry (215g)

Total: £9.52

Aldi hamper ideas for under £25

• Specially Selected Teas (£3.99, 125g)

• Specially Selected Winter Blend Coffee (£2.49, 227g)

• Specially Selected Belgian Flaked Truffles (£2.99, 200g)

• Specially Selected Giant Florentines (£5.99, 200g)

• Specially Selected Preserve Trio Gift Set (£4.99, 3 x 220g)

• Specially Selected Seasonal Chutneys (£1.39) in Spiced Apple & Pear (200g), Fig, Honey & Orange (215g) or Spiced Plum & Blackberry (215g)

• Specially Selected Hot Chocolate Bombe (£1.99, 50g) in Salted Caramel or Belgian Milk Chocolate

• Specially Selected Black Truffle Hand Cooked Crisps, Specially Selected Roast Duck with Spiced Rum Crisps or Specially Selected Lobster Thermidor Crisps (£1.15, 150g)

Total: £24.98

The new Specially Selected range is in stores now.