Major UK high street store to close all UK stores for three days | UK | News
Shoppers have been warned that a high street store will close all its UK stores for three days over the festive season and will also close earlier than usual on Christmas Eve.
In a post on Instagram, Home Bargains reminded customers: “All our stores will be closed for Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. We want to thank all our colleagues for how hard you have worked this past year and we want you to relax and enjoy the Christmas holidays with your loved ones. Love from the HB team.”
The closures will occur on Christmas Day (Thursday, December 25), Christmas Day (Friday, December 26) and New Year’s Day (Thursday, January 1).
On Christmas Eve, stores will close from 5pm so staff can spend more time with their families.
A spokesperson for Home Bargains said: “Our colleagues work incredibly hard throughout the year and we want to recognize that dedication.
“As a family-run business, we understand the importance of spending time with family and friends, especially during the holidays. We are proud to offer our teams additional time off so they can enjoy the festive season.”
The announcement comes amid a wider trend for UK retailers to give employees time off over Christmas.
Sunday trading laws restrict large stores over 280 square meters from opening for only six consecutive hours between 10am and 6pm.
Shops must remain closed on Christmas Day and those who break trading rules could face fines. Department stores are also required to clearly display their restricted Sunday hours both inside and outside.
Other major retailers planning to close over the festive period include Poundland, Marks & Spencer (M&S), Next and a number of UK supermarkets.
These closures are designed to enable staff to spend time with their families after a busy year and to manage holiday trading demands.
Home Bargains’ early closing and three-day closure on Christmas Eve means shoppers will need to complete their festive shopping in advance. By announcing these dates in advance, the retailer allows customers to plan their shopping while also prioritizing the well-being of staff during the holiday season.
