Boots takes us through decades past in nostalgic Christmas campaign

Boots’ Christmas campaign has taken a nostalgic turn, telling the story of two real-life sisters over four decades as they exchange gifts.

The 60-second film, which launched this Saturday on ITV’s X-Factor, plays out to a re-recorded version of Yazoo’s 1982 hit, Only You, and looks to show how a single gift can show someone you truly know them.

As snippets of their lives are shown, a product that was popular at that time also makes an appearance. Some 11 items, from a Seventeen Parma Violet Nail Polish to Natural Collection Banana Moisturising Cream Bath, have been woven into the shots.

“We believe Christmas is all about the thought – it’s aboutold memories and new ones we’re yet to make. The secrets we’ve shared and the laughs we won’t forget. We want to help people recognise, strengthen and celebrate their closest relationships through the sharing of great gifts – chosen with thought, shared with love, and received with unbridled delight,” said Helen Jeremiah, director of customer strategy and communications at the retailer.

“Like the sisters in our film, many of our customers have grown up with Boots and have been sharing our gifts with their family and friends throughout their lives.”

The ad is the first Christmas campaign for Boots UK by creative agency Ogilvy since it won the account earlier this year.

As part of the campaign, Boots is encouraging people to tell their gifting stories using the hashtag #ShowThemYouKnowThem.