Motorists across Birmingham are being advised to plan their essential purchases in advance, as a major national retailer confirms it will shut all its branches for a full 72 hours over the upcoming festive break.
Festive Shutdown for Staff Wellbeing
Halfords, which operates multiple sites throughout the city, has taken the decision to close every one of its over 400 UK locations on three key dates: Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year's Day. The move is designed to allow employees dedicated time off to spend with their families during the holiday season.
Henry Birch, Chief Executive Officer at Halfords, explained the company's reasoning. He stated that colleagues work tirelessly throughout the year to keep customers on the road, often putting in long hours. The closure is a direct thank you for that effort. "It’s important that we recognise that effort and give everyone the chance to switch off and spend quality time with family and friends," Birch said. He described the three-day shutdown as a "small but meaningful way to say thank you" and to ensure teams return in the new year feeling refreshed.
Other Retailers Following Suit
Halfords is not alone in prioritising staff time off this Christmas. The discount chain Home Bargains has previously announced an identical closure pattern for its stores. Its shops will also be shut on Christmas Day, Boxing Day (Monday 26th December), and New Year’s Day (Sunday 1st January).
A spokesperson for the family-run business emphasised their commitment to staff, noting the importance of family time during the holidays. Furthermore, on Christmas Eve, Home Bargains stores will close earlier at 5pm to enable staff to get home to their loved ones sooner.
The supermarket chain Aldi has also joined the list of retailers granting extended festive breaks to their workforce this year.
Planning Ahead for the Festive Period
For drivers, the key takeaway is the need to prepare. The extended closure of a major automotive and cycling retailer means last-minute purchases for items like bulbs, wiper blades, or cycling accessories will not be possible on those three days.
While stores will be closed on the three specified bank holidays, Halfords has confirmed it will operate normal hours in the days between Boxing Day and New Year's Day. The company's precise festive trading hours for 2025 are yet to be officially confirmed and published.
This collective move by prominent retailers highlights a growing trend in the sector towards acknowledging the hard work of staff during the busy retail calendar and granting them proper respite over the Christmas and New Year period.
