Halfords has declared that it will shut down all its stores on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day this year. The automotive retailer aims to provide its employees throughout the UK with a much-needed break to spend quality time with their families. While Halfords stores will be closed on Christmas Day as well, they will resume regular operations on all other days during the festive period.
Henry Birch, the CEO of Halfords, expressed gratitude towards the staff for their tireless dedication to serving customers, often working extended hours to keep the country moving. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging their hard work by granting them the opportunity to unwind and enjoy valuable moments with their loved ones. By closing stores on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, Halfords hopes to show appreciation and ensure that its teams return rejuvenated for the upcoming year.
Following Halfords’ announcement, it was revealed that the company experienced a boost in sales and profits in the previous half-year. Cycling business sales surged by 9% in the half-year leading up to September 26, contributing to a 3.3% rise in total revenues to £893.3 million. Additionally, there was a 1.1% increase in like-for-like motoring revenues and a 4.3% growth in the autocentres business.
In a similar move, Home Bargains has decided to keep its stores closed on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, aligning with its tradition from previous years. The retailer expressed gratitude towards its staff for their hard work and encouraged them to relax and enjoy the holiday season with their families. Likewise, Aldi has also chosen to close its doors on December 26, providing its employees with the opportunity to unwind and celebrate the festive period.
Aldi will extend its operating hours in the lead-up to Christmas to accommodate customers preparing for the holiday. Rebecca Heley, the Communications Director at Aldi UK, emphasized the importance of allowing colleagues to relax and enjoy the special time with loved ones. This decision to close on Boxing Day serves as a token of appreciation for the efforts made by Aldi’s staff in delivering a memorable Christmas experience for customers.