The pair have teamed up for a seasonal ad that continues in the cinematic tradition made famous by the John Lewis department stores division.

The advert, which launched on social media this morning and will air on TV during Saturday’s edition of X Factor: Celebrity, features Excitable Edgar, a dragon who excludes himself from the seasonal festivities after accidentally disrupting them through his fire-breathing. But his friend, a girl called Ava, makes sure he can take part.

The ad is designed to highlight the combination of “thoughtful gifting” from John Lewis and “thoughtful hosting” with Waitrose food.

John Lewis & Partners customer director Craig Inglis said: “I’m delighted our two brands have come together for this year’s Christmas campaign.

“It started from a spark of an idea – a little dragon’s excitement about Christmas – and became the story of how someone goes the extra mile for their best friend to give just the right gift.

“It’s a funny, heart-warming story that will resonate with our customers as they seek out the perfect gifts for their loved ones this Christmas.”

Waitrose & Partners customer director Martin George said the ad was “a reminder that a thoughtful gesture, whether that’s a delicious meal or a special gift, can mean so much”.

The Christmas tie-up between the two retailers comes as the John Lewis Partnership prepares to restructure early next year.

The group will no longer be run as two business units, but will instead be managed and operated as a single business with one executive team under new chair Sharon White. The changes take effect from February.