As Christmas Day approaches, many across the UK are finalising their festive plans, including essential shopping trips for the days surrounding December 25th. With Boxing Day falling on a bank holiday, knowing which supermarkets will be open is crucial for anyone needing to pick up last-minute items or hunt for post-Christmas bargains.
Major Retailers Welcing Shoppers
Most of the UK's large supermarket chains have confirmed they will open their doors on Friday, December 26th. However, opening times will be reduced compared to a standard trading day.
Morrisons has announced its stores will be open to the public from 9am until 6pm. Similarly, Asda will operate during the same hours, from 9am to 6pm.
Tesco is also opening for Boxing Day, but shoppers must note the varying schedules. Its larger Extra and Superstore formats will run from 9am to 6pm. Meanwhile, most smaller Express convenience stores are expected to trade between 9am and 7pm. The supermarket giant advises customers to check the precise times for their local branch via its store locator, as hours can differ by location.
Stores Closing for a Staff Break
Not all retailers will be trading. A select few are choosing to close entirely to allow employees a well-deserved rest after the busy Christmas period.
Aldi has confirmed it will shut all of its stores across the country on Boxing Day. Discounter rival Lidl has informed The Sun that the majority of its stores located outside the M25 motorway and in Wales will also remain closed.
Shoppers hoping for M&S bargains may be disappointed, as the retailer is keeping the vast majority of its main stores shut. The exception will be some of its outlet shops and selected convenience stores, which are scheduled to open.
Checking Your Local Branch
For other supermarkets, the advice is to verify details locally. It is widely believed that Sainsbury's will follow a pattern similar to Asda and Morrisons, with stores likely open from 9am to 6pm. Nevertheless, the company emphasises that customers should confirm the hours for their specific Sainsbury's branch before making a journey.
With only a couple of major chains completely closed, the vast majority of UK grocers will be accessible on Boxing Day. Planning ahead by checking your local store's opening times online is the best way to ensure a smooth and successful shopping trip on the bank holiday.
