A Glasgow bakery is digging deep into the archives this Christmas to launch a festive treat baked in nostalgia.
McGhee’s has launched its new gingerbread men in Asda stores across Scotland this week with the classic treat set to roll out across SPAR and One-O-One stores in the weeks ahead.
The family bakery, which turns 90 next year, is using a traditional recipe to make the biscuit, which has a gentle, moreish ginger warmth and the classic crunchy snap many of us remember from school fairs, Christmas shows and winter markets.
The simple, versatile base can be decorated and customised for festive gatherings and family baking sessions. Of course, it’s also a vital ingredient for gingerbread houses.
The launch taps into a bigger trend: a peak in nostalgic treats, driven by shoppers seeking comfort, familiarity and classic bakes done well.
Aisling McGhee, commercial director, said: “ We have seen growing demand for traditional favourites across the year, from morning rolls to empire biscuits.
“Gingerbread men are one of those treats that take you straight back. They’re simple, joyful and remind you of childhood.
“They’re a blank canvas, intentionally. It means families can decorate them however they like, whether that’s for parties, keeping wee ones entertained or adding characters to a gingerbread house.
“There’s a real appetite for nostalgic bakes right now, so it felt like the right moment to create them. The ginger flavour is subtle, the crunch is spot on and once you start, you’re in danger of eating the whole packet. Our top tip is to eat the legs first so they can’t get away.”
“Christmas is about small joys, and for many people that means a biscuit tin full of the classics. Gingerbread men and empire biscuits have both seen a revival as shoppers look for small, affordable treats that feel special in the run up to Christmas.”
Thanks to high retailer demand, McGhee’s is gearing up to deliver nearly 50,000 gingerbread men throughout the four-week festive period, demonstrating the strong demand for nostalgic bakery favourites.
The bakery’s Christmas Empire Biscuits will also return following huge customer demand.
The gingerbread men will be available in-store from 27 November.
