With the Christmas season now upon us, retailers are starting to thank staff for their hard work during what can only be described as a challenging year.
With Asda announcing yesterday that all stores would be closed, with staff due to work still being paid, we wanted to share the other retailers who have pledged to keep their doors closed on Boxing Day, some even longer.
Marks & Spencer
Marks & Spencer had previously planned to open over 200 stores on the 26th, but have announced that all of its stores in the UK and its customer contact centre will now close.
M&S chief executive Steve Rowe confirming, “Throughout the pandemic, our colleagues have gone above and beyond to deliver for our customers and as we enter the busy festive season they are doubling down on their efforts once again to help our customers deliver the Christmas magic for their families and friends,”
“2020 has been a uniquely challenging year for everyone and this Christmas, the celebrations we have, will be more precious than ever.”
Aldi
Aldi has confirmed that all of its 830 stores across the UK would be closed this Boxing Day to allow staff to spend time with their families.
Home Bargains
Home Bargains has announced via Instagram and Twitter that stores would be closed saying: “To all our staff: Thank you for all your hard work once again this year.
“All our stores will be closed on Boxing Day to ensure you are able to spend time with your friends and family.”
The Entertainer
The toy retailer will close all 171 of its stores across the UK at the end of the day on Christmas Eve and won’t re-open until Monday, December 28th.
“Our stores will close on Christmas Eve and will reopen on again until Monday 28 December, giving our employees three of the five days of the eased restriction period to spend Christmas with the people they cherish,” The Entertainer chief executive Gary Grant said.
Pets At Home
Pets At Home said saying staff should take the time off on Boxing Day to spend with their families after working hard during the Covid-19 crisis.
“As a small but tangible sign of our appreciation, I have decided to close all of our stores on Boxing Day this year to give our colleagues much-needed time with their families and loved ones,” Pets at Home boss Peter Pritchard said.
Wickes
DIY chain Wickes will be closing its doors on both Christmas Eve and Boxing Day as a “sign of appreciation” to their colleagues.
It’s the first time the retailer has shut its doors on Christmas Eve in its 48 year history but is the second year running that they have closed Boxing Day.
Other retailers without outlets in Swindon include Homebase and John Lewis.
The big question is, who will be next?
