- Waitrose joins forces with Disney+ to release new range celebrating ultimate 80s flavours
- Range includes iconic flavours such as Rhubarb & Custard, Bloody Mary Prawn Cocktail, Peach Melba and Steak Diane
- Products will hit Waitrose stores and online nationwide from 27 April
- Hulu Original “Rivals” season two to launch on 15 May on Disney+
Waitrose has come together with Disney+ to launch a bold, limited-edition '80s Rivals' range this April, celebrating the second season of “Rivals”. The Hulu Original series will return in two six-episode batches, the first will debut on May 15 with a three-episode premiere and the second batch will follow later in the year on Disney+ in the UK.
Inspired by the iconic tastes of the 1980s, the collection reimagines the decade's most talked-about flavours as playful 'rivals' in a vibrant, decadent celebration of pure noshtalgia.
Research shows that nostalgia is a powerful influence on what we eat*. In today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world, many are turning to foods that remind them of simpler times, seeking comfort and a sense of familiarity in flavours from decades past. From dinner party classics to indulgent crisps, nostalgic puds and sunshine-ready spritzes, the range invites loyal fans of the iconic decade to relive the magic whilst giving a new generation the chance to discover the joy of maximalist food.
Nathan Ansell, Chief Customer Officer at Waitrose, said: "We are absolutely thrilled to join forces with Disney+ on the launch of 'Rivals' season two, working closely with Disney Advertising and production to connect directly with food lovers in one of their first brand integration moments for a scripted UK Hulu Original. This natural integration transports viewers into the 80s world of Rutshire, with an authentic Waitrose store and branding featuring in a key scene. To take it one step further, we are extending this experience for our customers by launching our 'Noshtalgia' product range, bringing back the 80s power lunch, in store from April 27th.”
In the upcoming season, the battle for the Central South West television franchise reaches a fever pitch as the war between Corinium and Venturer enters a dangerous new phase. More ruthless than ever, Tony Baddingham is determined to dismantle his rivals piece-by-piece, weaponising scandal and manipulating those closest to him to maintain his grip on power.
Amidst the hedonistic glamour of 80s excess, the personal lives of our Rutshire heroes spiral into chaos. Marriages fracture under the weight of ambition, illicit affairs threaten to shatter families, and long-buried secrets ignite with explosive consequences. As rivalries push everyone to the brink, loyalties are tested and hearts are broken in the pursuit of victory. But what is the true cost of war?
“Rivals”, made by Happy Prince, part of ITV Studios, is executive produced by Dominic Treadwell-Collins, Alexander Lamb, Felicity Blunt, Elliot Hegarty, Olivier Award-winning playwright Laura Wade, “Rivals” author Dame Jilly Cooper and for Disney+, Jonny Richards.
The 80s Food Rivals Line-Up:
The Sandwich Showdown
At the heart of the range lies a nostalgic nod to the kind of indulgent fillings that once dominated 80s buffets and power lunch plates. The Scotch Egg Sandwich (£4) layers seasoned egg mayonnaise with crumbled Scotch egg, a sweet hit of chilli jam and fresh spinach, all tucked into hearty 8-grain bread. It’s bold, unapologetic and shamelessly satisfying. Going head-to-head is the Thousand Island Prawn Sandwich (£4), the take on a true icon features plump, succulent prawns and a rich, tangy thousand island sauce, made with a delicate blend of spices and gherkins. It’s a scandalously good twist on a retro classic that defined the decade.
The Crisp Clash
Snacks also get the deluxe dinner party treatment, with two iconic 80s flavours reimagined as hand-cooked crisps. The Steak Diane Handcooked Crisps (£1.50) are irresistibly moreish and full of throwback flavour, made in the heart of the English countryside using only the finest British potatoes. Hand-cooked in sunflower oil and tumbled with premium seasonings, they're so good you won't want to share. Their red-hot rival, Bloody Mary Prawn Cocktail Flavoured Handcooked Crisps (£1.50), are crunchy with a kick, dialling up the drama with a decadent, spicy take on the nation’s favourite retro crisp. Decadent, spicy and oh-so 80s.
The Pudding Face-Off
Last but certainly not least, dessert is pure noshtalgia with two ice creams made with British milk for an extra layer of quality and creaminess. Rhubarb & Custard Dairy Ice Cream (£3.40) combining creamy custard ice cream with a tangy rhubarb ripple for a spoonful that tastes like childhood in the 80s. Competing for top billing is Peach Melba Dairy Ice Cream (£3.40), a sensational summer fling with a smooth hero at the centre. Creamy peach ice cream, lush peach pieces and tangy raspberry ripple come together in a dreamy treat that’s bound to melt your heart.
The Summer Spritz Rivalry - Waitrose first alcoholic ready-to-drink offering
For those looking to raise a glass, Waitrose is also bringing two flamboyant flavours into the spotlight which are bold, playful and unmistakably 80s. The Peach Melba Spritz (£2.50) is a delicious blend of juicy peach and ripe raspberry, lifted with sparkling crisp bubbles for a beautifully balanced summer spritz. Made with white wine and natural fruit juices, the peach and raspberry flavours create a pale pink hue. Meanwhile, the Spicy Pineapple Daiquiri (£2.50) offers a tropical throwback, ripe pineapple with a gentle chilli heat which builds through each sip.
Completing the collection is the limited-edition Indulgence tote (£6). Made from recycled bottles and weight-tested to 10kg, the reusable bag is designed for customers stocking up on their favourite flavour rivalries. Practical yet playful, it's perfect for carrying everything from Steak Diane crisps to tubs of Peach Melba ice cream.
More Than Nostalgia
The range reflects a continued focus on championing great food with personality; celebrating flavour, sparking conversation and giving customers something new to talk about. By spotlighting iconic 80s dishes in unexpected formats, it invites food lovers to relive the drama of the decade, one rivalry at a time.
Maddy Wilson, Director of Own Brand at Waitrose, said: "The 80s are back with a fresh twist, and we can only apologise we didn’t launch these decades ago! We’re coming together with Disney+ in celebration of the new season of “Rivals” to deliver the iconic flavours customers crave, reimagined for today. The fun and drama lie in the choice - now you can settle your own debate, whether it's Steak Diane vs Bloody Mary, or Scotch Egg vs Prawn Cocktail. It's a celebration of pure joy and food that will give every food lover something to talk about."
Whether it’s Steak Diane vs Bloody Mary, Rhubarb & Custard vs Peach Melba, or Scotch Egg vs Prawn Cocktail, this is retro done the Waitrose way: high quality, full of flavour and made for sharing and debating.
The limited-edition 80s food Rivals range is complemented by a curated line-up of much-loved retro favourites, bringing even more throwback flavour to shelves:
- Waitrose No.1 Coronation King Prawn Cocktail with Cornish Crab (£5.50)
- Waitrose No.1 The Ultimate Cornish Crab Topper (£7.50)
- Waitrose No.1 12 Summer Edition Macaron Selection (£6.50)
- Waitrose Rhubarb & Custard Trifle (£3.95)
- Waitrose Coronation Chicken Quiche (£3.75)
- Waitrose Ham Hock & Cheddar Ploughmans Quiche (£3.75)
- Waitrose Coronation Chicken Pastries (£4.00)
- Waitrose No.1 4 Wiltshire Ham & Piccalilli Pies (£4.50)
- Waitrose Cheese & Ham Ploughmans Bites (£3.75)
- Waitrose Peach Melba Cake (£4.00)
- Waitrose No.1 Curried Spatchcock with Coronation Sauce & Bombay Spiced Crispy Onions (£15)
*Mintel: 2026 Global Food Predictions
About Waitrose
Waitrose is the Home of Food Lovers, serving customers with exceptional quality products and expert service.
Part of the John Lewis Partnership - the UK’s largest employee-owned business - Waitrose has 320 shops and a strong online business. It also has agreements with brands like Welcome Break and Shell, further bolstering its local footprint.
It works closely with British farmers and suppliers, and is a market-leader for animal welfare and responsible sourcing - using sustainable farming methods, including on its very own farm, the Leckford Estate.
Waitrose has 800 specialist counters across its shops and a Beer, Wine and Spirits team that includes more Masters of Wine than any other UK supermarket. It holds a Royal Warrant as Grocer and Wine & Spirits Merchant to His Majesty King Charles III.
About Disney+
Disney+ is the dedicated streaming home for movies and shows from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic, along with The Simpsons and outside the U.S., general entertainment brand Hulu. As the flagship direct-to-consumer streaming service from The Walt Disney Company, Disney+ serves as a connection point for audiences around the world with an unmatched collection of award-winning general entertainment and gold-standard family programming. With unprecedented access to Disney’s long history of incredible film and television entertainment, it is also the exclusive streaming home for the newest releases from The Walt Disney Studios. For more, visit disneyplus.com, or find the Disney+ app on most mobile and connected TV devices.
