🎄 Introduction: A Holiday Tradition with Rewards
For many UK shoppers, the festive season isn’t just about presents and mince pies — it’s also about smart saving. One of the most anticipated loyalty campaigns every year is Sainsbury’s Nectar “Count Up to Christmas” promotion.
Running again in 2025, this promotion gives customers a chance to collect bonus Nectar points in the run-up to Christmas by completing simple shopping tasks. It’s not just a fun challenge — it’s a way to make your everyday spending work harder for you.
But how does it actually work, and how do you ensure you’re squeezing every reward possible from it? Let’s break it down.
🛒 How the “Count Up to Christmas” Promotion Works
The promotion is run exclusively via the Nectar app, which means you need to download and log in to take part. Here’s how it works step by step:
- Join the challenge — Open your Nectar app and look for the “Count Up to Christmas” banner. Tap Join the Challenge.
- Complete tasks — Each week, you’ll receive specific challenges. These can include:
- Shopping in-store at Sainsbury’s
- Buying selected products or categories
- Spending a minimum amount within a set timeframe
- Shopping with partner brands (e.g., eBay, Esso, Argos)
- Earn bonus points — Each completed challenge adds to your total, with up to 1,500 extra Nectar points available during the promotion.
- Use your points — Your bonus is added to your Nectar balance and can be redeemed in the usual way at Sainsbury’s, Argos, and other partners.
📆 Key Dates to Remember
- Promotion starts: October 1, 2025
- Promotion ends: November 11, 2025
- Reward availability: Bonus points usually appear in your account within 28 days after the challenge ends.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t wait too long to join — missing the early weeks means leaving free points on the table.
💡 Tips to Maximize Your Nectar Points
Here’s how savvy shoppers are making the most of “Count Up to Christmas”:
1. Check the App Regularly
New tasks appear weekly, so open your Nectar app at least once a week to avoid missing out.
2. Stack Deals with Other Offers
If you’re buying qualifying products, look for in-store discounts or coupons to double up on savings.
3. Shop Partners Strategically
If your tasks include Esso fuel or eBay purchases, plan them around the promotion. Don’t spend more — just time your existing shopping.
4. Don’t Overspend for Points
1,500 points equals about £7.50 in value. Great for free rewards, but not worth overspending on things you don’t need.
5. Track Your Balance
Sometimes points don’t appear instantly. Keep digital or paper receipts and screenshot your completed tasks in case you need to query with Nectar support.
⚠️ Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Forgetting to join: If you don’t tap “Join the Challenge,” you won’t get the points — even if you do the tasks.
- Confusing tasks: Some challenges are personalized, so your tasks might differ from someone else’s.
- Overspending: Remember, Nectar points aren’t free money if you buy things you wouldn’t normally purchase.
🎁 Why This Promotion Matters
- Extra value during expensive months: Christmas shopping stretches budgets, so every bonus helps.
- Gamification of savings: Turning shopping into a challenge makes it more engaging.
- Loyalty boost: For Nectar, this is about keeping shoppers loyal — for you, it’s about earning rewards on spending you already planned.
✅ Conclusion: A Simple Way to Add Value to Your Festive Spending
The Nectar “Count Up to Christmas” promotion is a fun, easy way to get extra rewards while doing your regular shopping. By checking the app weekly, stacking offers, and being smart with purchases, you can make the most of the scheme without overspending.
Think of it as your loyalty card’s holiday bonus — small, but handy for topping up your Christmas budget.
🔑 Interactive Question: Have you ever joined a Nectar “Count Up to Christmas” challenge? Did it actually save you money — or tempt you to spend more?
👉 CTA: Want more seasonal savings strategies and loyalty hacks? Subscribe to our newsletter and never miss a deal.
