# Quality Street Announces Major Changes to Christmas Chocolate Tubs for 2026 Nestlé discontinues paper tub trials while John Lewis drops the brand entirely. - **Source:** [Metro UK](https://metro.co.uk) - **Published:** 2026-11-08 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/6b7fde0f-355b-4e10-9218-1ae7c504b4c4 ## Retail Partnership Shifts John Lewis has officially confirmed it will not stock Quality Street chocolates for the 2026 Christmas season. This decision marks the end of an eight-year tradition involving in-store Pick Mix stations. Shoppers seeking festive confectionery at the retailer will now find alternative brands like Hotel Chocolat, Butlers, and Tony’s Chocolonely instead. ## End of Paper Tubs Nestlé has announced the discontinuation of its paper-based chocolate tubs for 2026. These recyclable containers, which featured gold foil accents, were previously trialed at Tesco stores starting in 2024. Despite the company's sustainability goals, the trial will not continue this year as the brand evaluates its long-term packaging development strategies. ## Consumer Reaction Trends Social media users expressed significant disappointment regarding the removal of the Pick Mix service. Previous consumer feedback on the paper tubs was mixed, with some customers claiming the packaging altered the chocolate's taste. Others humorously lamented the loss of the sturdy plastic tubs traditionally repurposed for household storage after the holidays. ## Future Packaging Ambitions While the paper tubs are absent for 2026, Nestlé indicated they are not permanently abandoned. The company is currently utilizing data gathered from 2024 and 2025 trials to refine future designs. Nestlé maintains an ambition to reintroduce sustainable packaging on a larger scale once further technical developments are successfully completed and tested. ## Competitive Market Dynamics The confectionery market is seeing increased customization options from competitors. Cadbury recently launched a virtual shop allowing fans to create personalized Heroes Pick Mix boxes for the first time. Unlike previous in-store experiences, this new service is exclusively available through online orders, reflecting a broader shift toward digital-first retail gifting strategies. ## Product Line Consistency Despite the significant changes to retail availability and packaging materials, the core product remains unchanged. Nestlé confirmed that the specific assortment of chocolates inside the standard tubs will stay the same for 2026. Loyal customers can expect the same flavor profiles they have traditionally associated with the Quality Street brand. ## Historical Context of Trials The paper tub initiative was initially launched to address environmental concerns regarding plastic waste. During the two-year trial period, the packaging was designed to maintain a luxurious feel while ensuring full recyclability. The transition faced scrutiny from long-term fans who were accustomed to the durability of traditional plastic containers for decades. ## Strategic Retail Implications The removal of Quality Street from John Lewis highlights the evolving nature of holiday retail partnerships. As major brands adjust their distribution channels and packaging sustainability, consumers are forced to adapt their shopping habits. This shift reflects a broader trend where retailers prioritize diverse gifting options over long-standing, singular brand collaborations. ## Sources covering this story - https://metro.co.uk/2026/11/08/quality-street-makes-two-major-changes-chocolate-tubs-christmas-2026-29774858/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._