Aldi takes a bold step this Christmas, giving all 1,000 UK stores a three-day break – including the busy Boxing Day – to let staff enjoy time with their families.
In a move that’s catching many shoppers off guard, Aldi has confirmed it will be shutting all 1,000 of its UK stores over the festive period – including Boxing Day, a traditionally huge day for retail.
The discount supermarket will close its doors on Christmas Day (25 December), Boxing Day (26 December), and also on New Year’s Day (1 January). Stores will reopen on Saturday, 27 December and again on Friday, 2 January.
Rebecca Heley, Communications Director at Aldi UK, explained the decision, saying: “Christmas is a special time, and we want to ensure all of our colleagues have the opportunity to relax and enjoy it with their loved ones.
That’s why all Aldi stores will be closed on Boxing Day this year. We know how hard colleagues work to deliver an amazing Christmas for our customers, and this is one small way of saying thank you.”
This marks yet another year that Aldi has chosen to prioritise its workforce over Boxing Day profits, reinforcing its growing reputation for employee care.
Countdown to Christmas: Opening Hours and Festive Rush
While doors will close over the key holiday dates, Aldi has extended its opening hours in the days leading up to Christmas to help shoppers stock up.
Expect longer trading hours throughout the week before 25 December – ideal for last-minute turkeys, party nibbles, and festive fizz.
Don’t forget to use the store locator tool on Aldi’s website to check specific timings for your local store. Opening hours may vary by location.
Other Retailers Following Suit
Aldi isn’t the only one pressing pause this Christmas.
- Home Bargains will also remain closed on Boxing Day and shut early on Christmas Eve.
- John Lewis has historically closed its doors on Boxing Day and reduced hours ahead of Christmas.
- B&M opted for shorter hours last year on both Christmas Eve and Boxing Day.
- In recent years, IKEA kept its stores shut until 27 December.
The trend is clear: more UK retailers are prioritising staff wellbeing over post-Christmas sales.
Festive Favourites Already on Shelves
While Christmas may still be over three months away, retailers have already started ramping up the seasonal spirit.
- Cadbury’s Dairy Milk Winter Mint Crisp has returned – in a whopping 360g size for £4.50.
- Marks & Spencer has dropped its festive food range, bringing back Munch tins and unveiling unique new treats like:
- Peanut Butter and Jelly Spread
- Pecan and Salted Caramel Blondies (with a surprising Marmite twist)
- The Range has reintroduced its Large Christmas Sleigh Hamper, perfect for piling on presents and turning heads under the tree.
Plan Ahead – Avoid Last-Minute Panic
With multiple retailers choosing downtime over Boxing Day business, shoppers are being urged to plan their food and gift hauls early.
Make a checklist. Beat the crowds. And don’t leave the cranberry sauce to the last minute! This Christmas, Aldi is making a statement – not just about shopping, but about values.
Stay updated on all major retail changes and Christmas news at UK News Blog
