With a three-day weekend approaching for most Britons, many may find themselves with extra time to visit the shops. Whether refreshing a wardrobe or giving the home a makeover, there is no shortage of retailers catering to every need.
However, on Monday, May 4, the usual trading rules for popular high street stores such as B&M, Dunelm, Home Bargains, and Primark will differ. The bank holiday will not force any of these major retailers to close for the day, unlike closures seen over Christmas or parts of Easter.
Most, however, will adjust their opening and closing times depending on location. Shoppers are advised to check with their nearest store beforehand to avoid arriving too early or too late. Stores often close early on bank holidays to allow staff to enjoy the holiday. In some cases, it may be less profitable to stay open late, reducing the business incentive, reports the Express.
B&M
B&M's website confirms that stores will be open on Monday, May 4, though hours may vary. Most branches are expected to open as early as 8am and remain open until 8pm. In certain locations, stores may open at 9am or close as early as 6pm. The B&M Store Locator on its official website is the best way to find out exactly how your local branch will operate.
Unlike Easter Sunday, when Scottish stores remain open while English stores close, for the May Bank Holiday, Scotland typically follows the same reduced hours as the rest of the UK, though some branches may stay open slightly later. As B&M does not operate uniform opening hours across all stores, shoppers are best advised to check locally for details about their nearest branch.
Dunelm
For the May Bank Holiday on Monday, Dunelm stores throughout the UK will also operate on reduced hours. On a typical weekday, Dunelm stores generally remain open until 9pm, but bank holidays bring notable adjustments to both opening and closing times.
The majority of stores will close earlier in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, with doors closing from 6pm, though it is worth checking online as some local branches may operate slightly different hours. Scottish stores frequently maintain their standard Monday hours during English bank holidays, however the May holiday dates can sometimes align with stores nationwide.
Home Bargains
Home Bargains branches across the UK will also wind down earlier on Monday, May 4, but are likely to stick to their usual opening times throughout the country. Shoppers should be able to browse as they would on any ordinary Monday, but should bear in mind that stores may close several hours ahead of the standard weekday schedule.
Most branches will close at 6pm, though the store locator tool can check any changes at your nearest location. Scottish Home Bargains outlets frequently adhere to their regular trading hours on May bank holidays, remaining open until 8pm or beyond.
Primark
Primark stores will be operating on shorter hours this bank holiday, May 4. Most branches will open between 9am and 10am before shutting earlier than normal, from 6pm in certain locations.
Primark branches across Scotland typically stick to standard Monday opening times, although smaller high street locations may still choose to close at 6pm. Check online for precise information about Primark stores in your area.
