Halfords has made an announcement that this year, all of its stores will be closed on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. The motoring retailer expressed its intention to provide its staff across the UK with a well-deserved break to spend time with their loved ones. While Halfords stores will be closed on Christmas Day as well, they will operate as usual on all other days during the festive season.
Henry Birch, the CEO of Halfords, emphasized the exceptional dedication of the staff throughout the year, often working extended hours to keep the country moving. Birch stated that recognizing this effort is crucial, giving everyone the opportunity to unwind and enjoy quality time with family and friends. By closing the stores on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, the company aims to show gratitude and ensure their teams return rejuvenated for the upcoming year.
In recent years, Halfords has seen an increase in sales and profits. Cycling business sales surged by 9% in the first half of the year ending on September 26, contributing to a 3.3% rise in total revenues to £893.3 million for the period. Additionally, like-for-like motoring revenues increased by 1.1%, and the autocentres business experienced a 4.3% growth.
Apart from Halfords, Home Bargains has also decided to keep its stores shut on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day this year, continuing a tradition from previous years. Similarly, Aldi, a budget supermarket chain, will close its doors on December 26 and New Year’s Day. Aldi will extend its operating hours leading up to Christmas to accommodate customers preparing for the festive period.
Rebecca Heley, the Communications Director at Aldi UK, emphasized the importance of allowing colleagues to relax and enjoy the holiday season with their loved ones. This decision to close Aldi stores on Boxing Day is a gesture of appreciation for the hard work put in by the staff to deliver a fantastic Christmas experience for customers.