John Lewis Introduces Upside Down Christmas Tree

31/07/2007

This year’s Christmas party may feature an upside down tree – if retailer John Lewis has anything to do with it.

The store is hoping to revive interest in a 12th Century tradition of turning the Christmas tree upside down. Its new topsy-turvy tree costs £75 and is featured in the store’s Christmas catalogue.

The artificial tree is being promoted as a space saving strategy, as there is more space for presents under the tree.

Turning the traditional symbol of Christmas on its head, the upside down tree will go on sale in the Aberdeen branch of John Lewis on September 25th. The tree will certainly not go un-noticed when it features at Christmas party celebrations: it is six feet tall and comes pre-lit in the traditional red and gold colours of Christmas.

A John Lewis spokesperson said: "The tree was the most talked about item at the Christmas previews. It allows decorations to hang freely away from the hands of young children."

However, the spokesperson added: "We realise that the upside down tree is not for everyone and we will also be selling more traditional trees."

The traditional Christmas tree dates back to the 7th Century, when it was used by a monk to spread Christianity in Germany. The tree’s triangular shape is said to represent the Holy Trinity.

This is not the retailer’s first foray into trees that will be a Christmas party talking point: John Lewis has previously released a range of black trees.