McVitie’s has quietlyjust launched a brand-new “twist” on one of the most classic British biscuits of all time.
And shoppers have been pretty shocked by the news.
Given that new product launches tend to be something that shops, companies , and food manufacturers shout about from the rooftops whenever they get the chance to, you can probably understand why Tesco customers have been left so shocked after spotting what is a seemingly brand-new biscuit on shop shelves.
In the absence of what appears to be any prior reference or teasing of the product at all, McVitie’s has just dropped a new cocoa-flavoured variation on the humble Rich Tea biscuit, and they can only be found in Tesco.
People have been taking to social media to share their sightings of the new choccy biccie at their local stores this week – including popular UK food-spotting accounts like @newfoodsuk and @newfoodfindsuk.
Images: The Manc Group
At this point, it’s quite tricky to give you much more information on the new chocolate treat, other than the fact it… exists.
That’s because a quick Google search for the biscuit’s apparent name, ‘McVitie’s Rich Tea: The Cocoa One’, provides next to nothing on what the product is all about, and it doesn’t seem to be listed on Tesco’s website yet either, which probably means you can only get your hands on them if you actually shop in store.
Just from the pictures and videos shared by shoppers online though, what we do know is that the new product must be distinguished from the already-existing popular milk chocolate-coated Rich Teas – which have been a mainstay on UK shop shelves for several years now – as there’s no actual chocolate layer on these ones.
Instead, the biscuit itself is cocoa-flavoured, so it’s basically everything you know and love about the Rich Tea, only chocolate-ier (if that’s a word).
“A cocoa twist on the classic” is how McVitie’s have described it on the branding.
We can also see that, as mentioned, the new biscuits are exclusive to Tesco at the moment, where a pack will set you back £1.25 each with a Clubcard or £1.80 without.
We bet they’ll be rolled out in other supermarkets and shops sometime in the near future though, so make sure to keep your eyes peeled.
After their sudden closure and disappearance from Leeds’ independent retail scene earlier this year, North Home have found a new location.
Homeware and interior lovers will remember the devastation that North Home's closure caused back in March.
The independent Nordic-inspired shop in Leeds' affluent Victoria Quarter was stacked to the brim with unique pieces from striking ceramics to stylish soft furnishings.
Well known amongst shoppers for their incredibly well-curated stock and great customer service, this was one of the best shopping experiences for homeware enthusiasts in the city.
Seriously, we've probably spent a good hour in here in awe of all the beautiful pieces.
Their closure in March was down to "increasing costs", stating that "Taking this step now gives us the opportunity to protect what we’ve built and focus on the future of the brand.
"We’ve loved being part of the Leeds retail community since 2020 and are incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received. We hope to share more about our plans soon."
And low and behold, they've stuck to their word as North Home have announced that they will be moving into Red Brick Mill over in Batley.
Announcing the very exciting news to Instagram, North Home said: "We’re officially setting up a new space! Thanks for all your great suggestions and ideas.
"We’re super excited to start working with you on your interior design projects. Thanks to REDBRICK for their very warm welcome. Opening soon @redbrick_mill in Batley"
This new chapter marks an exciting fresh start for North Home, and we couldn’t be happier to see them back doing what they do best.
Why shoppers are flocking to this much-loved independent kitchen shop in the heart of Ilkley
Clementine Hall
Community Cutlery in Ilkley is a must-visit for any avid chef or homeware lover.
Nestled on Leeds Road in the somewhat 'trendy' area of the beautiful spa town of Ilkley, you'll find Community Cutlery - a speciality kitchenware shop that's been standing proudly for five years.
Run by Gaz Heaton who really, really knows his stuff - here you'll find the largest selection of Japanese knives outside of London as well as the most beautiful collection of kitchenware you've ever seen.
Everything is tried and tested, from the teapots to the matcha mixing bowls, so you know you're getting the very best of the best whatever you decide to take home.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Of course, buying kitchen knives can be daunting at first, but Gaz is so welcoming and makes you feel right at home.
He'll ask you a few questions, what your knife's main purpose will be, what you're used to currently, and from then you'll be able to chop a few carrots on the Community Cutlery chopping board to see which one takes your fancy.
Once you've taken your knife home you can come back instore for their knife sharpening service, to make sure it stays sharp and in perfect condition.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
It's a shop that proves that the British high street in fact is not dead just yet, with customers flocking from far and wide to visit the shop for Gaz's expertise and incredible selection of products.
You can seriously get everything here, from aesthetically pleasing pepper mills and adorable butter dishes to handcrafted chopping boards and Japanese ceramics.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
They've even got Community Cutlery merch which would make the perfect present, in fact anything in that Aladdin's cave would.
You can find out more about Community Cutlery here.
Emily Sergeant -
20th June 2024 
