Shops across the country are adjusting their opening hours in preparation for the upcoming Christmas season. Many stores have extended their operating times leading up to Christmas Eve but will close earlier than usual to get ready for the holiday break.
Retailers have different approaches to their trading hours during this period. While some chains are opting to remain closed for an extended period, B&M has announced that it will break from this trend and will continue trading, regardless of the plans of other retailers like Home Bargains and Aldi.
In England and Wales, retail regulations mandate that shops larger than 280 square meters must close on Christmas Day and Easter Sunday. They are allowed to operate for only six hours between 10 am and 6 pm on Sundays. However, there are no specific regulations for opening hours on other Bank Holidays such as Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, leaving it to the discretion of individual companies.
Aldi and Home Bargains have disclosed that they will be closed on both Christmas Day and Boxing Day. In contrast, B&M has stated it will only close on Christmas Day and will resume business on Boxing Day, according to the Liverpool Echo.
B&M, a discount retailer with 700 stores nationwide, will reopen its stores on December 26 and many outlets are expected to be open on New Year’s Day as well, although with reduced hours. The company advises customers to check their website for specific store hours during the festive period.
Home Bargains will shut its doors at 5 pm on Christmas Eve and reopen on December 27, giving employees a break on both Christmas Day and Boxing Day. The stores will also be closed on New Year’s Day as a gesture of appreciation for their hardworking staff.
Aldi has also confirmed closures on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day in line with their holiday schedule.