Shoppers have been warned that a high street store will close all of its UK stores for three days over the festive season, while also shutting earlier than usual on Christmas Eve.
In a post on Instagram, Home Bargains reminded customers: “All of our stores will be closing for Boxing Day & New Years Day. We would like to thank all our colleagues for how hard you have worked this past year, and want you to relax and enjoy the Christmas break with your loved ones. Love from team HB.”
The closures will take place on Christmas Day (Thursday, December 25), Boxing Day (Friday, December 26), and New Year’s Day (Thursday, January 1).
On Christmas Eve, stores will close early at 5pm to allow staff extra time with their families.
A Home Bargains spokesperson said: “Our colleagues work incredibly hard throughout the year, and we want to recognise that commitment.
“As a family-run business, we understand the importance of spending time with family and friends, particularly over the holidays. We’re proud to give our teams additional time off to enjoy the festive season.”
The announcement comes amid a wider trend of UK retailers giving staff time off over Christmas.
Sunday trading laws restrict large shops, those over 280 square metres, to open for only six consecutive hours between 10am and 6pm.
Shops must remain closed on Christmas Day, and those that breach trading rules risk fines. Large stores also need to display their restricted Sunday hours clearly both inside and outside the premises.
Other major retailers planning closures over the festive period include Poundland, Marks & Spencer (M&S), Next, and a number of UK supermarkets.
These closures are designed to ensure staff can enjoy time with their families after a busy year and to manage holiday trading demands.
Home Bargains’ early Christmas Eve closing and three-day shutdown means shoppers are being urged to complete any essential festive purchases in advance. By announcing these dates in advance, the retailer is allowing customers to plan their shopping while prioritising staff welfare during the holiday season.
