B&Q and Home Bargains announce two-day closure of over 900 UK stores

Store closures have plagued British high streets this year, with some of the biggest brands shutting their beloved stores.

Two huge  retail giants have made fresh announcements on widespread store closures ahead of the festive period.

Budget retailer Home Bargains recently revealed plans to shut down its stores for an extended break later this year.

During its annual conference, the discount homeware brand announced a three-day closure of its entire UK store portfolio, which spans more than 600 stores.

Home Bargains shops will close their branches over Christmas and New Year, a move B&Q has followed suit on.

All Home Bargains outlets will remain closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day (Thursday, December 26, 2024), and New Year's Day (Wednesday, January 1, 2025) to allow their employees to relax and enjoy the festivities with their loved ones. Additionally, on Christmas Eve, all shops close early at 5pm.

As for B&Q, the DIY retailer has confirmed that it will shut all of its UK branches, of which there are more than 300, on Boxing Day (Thursday, December 26, 2024).

B&Q revealed plans to shut its stores early on Christmas Eve, which falls on a Tuesday this year. Branches across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland will shut at 4pm instead of the usual 8pm.

All stores will also be closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, so staff will get a little more time off to spend with their loved ones this Christmas.

Additionally, most B&Q stores will operate reduced opening hours on New Year's Day (Wednesday, January 1). The retailer's stores in Scotland and on the islands of Jersey and Guernsey will be completely closed to customers on January 1.

The news comes after retail stores, including Aldi, The Range, Wilko, John Lewis, Waitrose, and Homebase, announced that they would be closing all or most of their branches on Boxing Day (Thursday, December 26) to give staff a well-deserved break.

While some DIY fans may be disappointed to hear of the closures, Guy Thornton, Founder of Practice Aptitude Tests, says it's a move in the right direction for the retail sector.

He commented: "It is encouraging to see that so many retail stores are now opting to shut their doors on Boxing Day each year to give staff time off to relax and rest, rather than making the most of the post-Christmas sales."

Guy continued: "Employers should not only embrace this healthy habit during busy times of the year but also reassure staff by prioritising their work-life balance. It is also important that retail staff get time off at Christmas to remain happy and healthy during the busiest time of the year."

By law, under the Christmas Day (Trading) Act 2004, almost all stores across different retail sectors must close their doors on December 25 in the UK.

Any corner shops or local stores that are open will be discretionary, and you'll have to check any notices to see their opening hours.