Major Retailers Close on Boxing Day for Staff Well-being and Restocking
Several major retailers, including John Lewis and Ikea, are set to close their stores on Boxing Day. Aldi, which is investing £250million in reducing prices, is also joining them, prioritising staff well-being and family time.
The decision to close on Boxing Day allows retailers to conduct inventory checks and restock shelves, ensuring they're prepared for post-Christmas sales. It also gives staff a much-needed break to improve morale and reduce burnout.
Aldi, which will close all 980 of its UK stores on Christmas Day, is extending this break to Boxing Day and New Year's Day for most of its stores. Only those inside the M25 and in Wales will remain open on New Year's Day. Home Bargains is also closing hundreds of stores for three days over the festive period.
While some retailers like Woolworths may have special opening hours on October 26, 2025, the trend this Christmas is towards store closures on Boxing Day. This move, influenced by online shopping and a focus on staff well-being, is expected to continue in the coming years.