Two seasonal products sold by Next have been urgently recalled after potential health risks were identified. Customers are advised to stop using the items immediately and return them for a full refund.
Next has issued a recall for its Gingerbread Serveboard and Gingerbread Nibble Bowl following concerns that they may pose a risk of injury. The decision was made after faults were discovered in the enamel coating of the products, which could result in small pieces chipping off during use.
The festive-themed items, available during the recent Christmas season, were pulled from sale as a precautionary measure. The Office for Product Safety and Standards has confirmed that the products do not comply with the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.
Enamel Fault Could Lead to Injury, Says Product Safety Office
According to the UK’s Office for Product Safety and Standards, the issue lies in the enamel coating on both items, which may crack and chip over time. This presents a potential hazard to users, as the broken pieces could be ingested accidentally. The agency stated, “The product presents a risk of injuries as the enamel layer may crack and chip during use. This may result in small pieces of the material being swallowed, causing injuries.”
The affected items are the Gingerbread Serveboard (item number AW2342) and the Gingerbread Nibble Bowl (item number AN8859). Both items were marketed as seasonal tableware featuring a festive design and formed part of the retailer’s winter home collection.
According to a report by the Express, Next took the decision to recall the items after internal assessments showed that the products did not meet the company’s “strict technical specifications.” Customers who have purchased the products are being advised to cease using them immediately and return them via collection or at their nearest Next store. The retailer has assured customers that full refunds will be issued without requiring proof of purchase.
Full Refund Offered as Customers Urged to Return Items
Next has made it clear that the safety of its customers remains a priority. In a statement issued via its official channels, the retailer said, “As the Gingerbread Serveboard and Gingerbread Nibble Bowls don’t meet our strict, technical specifications, we’ve taken the precaution of recalling them.”
The company also expressed regret over the inconvenience, adding, “We’re very sorry for any disappointment and inconvenience this may cause.” The affected products can be returned in-store or through a scheduled collection arranged either online or by phone. Customers are advised to call 0333 777 8000 and select option 1, or use the Selfserve number 0800 587 7758 to organise the return.
According to Next, if the item was given as a gift, the original purchaser is encouraged to contact the recipient and ask them to reach out to the retailer directly. Returns can also be arranged through the customer’s online account under the ‘Arrange a return’ option.
The recall follows a strong trading period for the retailer, which recently reported a rise in profits during the Christmas quarter. While the safety notice concerns only two specific items, the incident highlights the importance of thorough quality assurance, particularly when it comes to kitchenware intended for regular use. Customers who have concerns or require assistance with the return process are encouraged to contact the retailer’s customer service for support.
