UK Retailers Set Mixed Boxing Day Hours

With Christmas just days away, major UK retailers are finalizing their Boxing Day schedules, balancing shopper demand for essentials and post-holiday bargains with staff breaks after a demanding year. On December 26, supermarkets like Morrisons, Asda and Tesco plan to reopen with reduced hours, while others including Marks & Spencer, Aldi and Home Bargains will remain closed nationwide.

Morrisons stores will welcome customers from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., matching the hours at most Asda locations. Tesco's larger Extra and Superstores will follow suit, operating 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., though its Express outlets will stay open until 7 p.m. in many areas. Sainsbury's branches are expected to mirror this pattern, with 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. openings, but officials emphasize that hours can vary by location, urging shoppers to verify details for their nearest store. Lidl plans to reopen most sites with shorter hours for those seeking holiday staples, though closures will apply to branches outside the M25 and in Wales.

In contrast, several chains are prioritizing employee rest. Aldi will shutter all stores on Boxing Day, continuing its policy of full closures over the festive period. Marks & Spencer...