Today : Dec 26, 2024
Economy
26 December 2024

UK Supermarkets Adjust Holiday Hours For 2024

Staff breaks are prioritized with varied opening times across major retailers this festive season.

The most wonderful time of the year is here, meaning major UK supermarkets will be altering opening times to give staff a well-earned break over the festive season. With Christmas celebrations winding down, many people will find themselves needing to stock up on groceries and other essentials, and knowing the altered supermarket hours is key to avoiding any last-minute scrambles.

Supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons, Aldi, Lidl, Marks and Spencer, Co-op, and Waitrose have announced their holiday hours, which will see varied operation times over the Christmas and New Year period. According to reports from The Express, post-Christmas shopping could be on the agenda for many, as "most big stores are open at least for a few hours on December 26 so you can always stock up on supplies if you do find yourself running low." It’s prudent to check local store hours as these changes can vary significantly.

For those planning to shop on Boxing Day (December 26), here’s what you can expect:


  • Tesco: Tesco Stores will be open from 9 am to 6 pm, with Express stores staying open until 7 pm.

  • Sainsbury's: Customers can shop at Sainsbury's between 9 am and 6 pm; convenience stores may be open until 9 pm.

  • Morrisons: Most Morrisons will operate from 9 am to 6 pm with filling stations open from 8:30 am till 6:30 pm.

  • Just like Aldi, which will remain closed on Boxing Day, Lidl has also decided to keep doors shut this Christmas, except for select locations, especially around the M25.

  • Marks and Spencer: M&S stores will not be open on Boxing Day but will reopen on December 27.

  • Co-op: Co-op estate stores will operate from 9 am to 7 pm on Boxing Day.

Headlines have varying accounts of New Year's operations. Supermarkets will largely return to their regular hours from December 27 onwards, but unique adjustments are noted for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day:


  • New Year’s Eve (December 31): Most stores will open for limited hours, typically from 7 am to 7 pm, with some variations based on region.

  • New Year’s Day (January 1): Most supermarkets will reopen around 9 am and close by 6 pm. Notably, Scotland's stores may remain closed until noon on this day.

This year's holiday season ushers not only joy but also expected hustle at supermarkets where people often find their holiday staples running low. Shoppers are advised to plan accordingly.

It’s worth noting the availability of home delivery services, which will continue during Boxing Day and New Year, though customers might encounter limited slots according to reports from The Mirror. Shoppers should utilize store locator tools to pinpoint their local store timings effectively said experts, making it easier for everyone to stock up on much-needed holiday supplies.

Supermarket opening hours during this festive period reflect the industry's commitment to giving employees time off during the holidays. It appears many retailers have opted to keep doors closed on certain days and welcome back shoppers at selective hours, which provide more leeway for staff and customers alike.

Wrapping up, it’s imperative for Christmas shoppers, whether they are dashing out to fill their carts or simply need one last item, to remain aware of this year's specific opening hours across the major retailers. With slight variations to be found from store to store, checking individual times may save you from disappointment this holiday season.

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