Major UK supermarket chains have confirmed their Boxing Day trading plans, with several giving staff a full day off on 26 December 2025. Aldi, Lidl, and Marks and Spencer will keep all stores closed, while others will operate reduced hours.
Which Supermarkets Are Closing on Boxing Day?
Aldi has confirmed that none of its stores will open on Boxing Day. Rebecca Heley, Communications Director at Aldi UK, stated the decision was made to allow colleagues time to relax and enjoy the festive period with loved ones.
Similarly, Lidl branches will also remain shut on 26 December. The discounter advised customers to check their local store's precise hours via its online store finder or the Lidl Plus app, noting that most locations will also be closed on New Year's Day.
Marks and Spencer will lock all its stores on Boxing Day. Jayne Wall, operations director for M&S, explained that while some colleagues would be working to reset stores and depots, more staff than in previous years would have the day off to ensure a strong welcome for customers on 27 December.
Waitrose will also keep its main stores closed, though a small number of branches linked to Welcome Break and Shell service stations may trade.
Reduced Hours and Store-by-Store Variations
Other major retailers will open but with amended schedules. Tesco plans to open its supermarkets from 9am until 6pm, while its Express convenience stores will run slightly longer, from 9am until 7pm.
Sainsbury's will follow a similar pattern, with main stores open from 9am to 6pm. Its smaller convenience outlets will stay open later, from 9am until 9pm.
Asda has confirmed it will open its doors on Boxing Day, with trading hours set from 9am until 6pm.
Co-op outlets will welcome customers from 10am to 7pm, with its convenience sites operating from 9am to 7pm.
It is anticipated that Morrisons will stick to last year's schedule, with shops in England and Wales likely open from 9am to 6pm. Scottish branches are expected to run from approximately 8:30am until 6:30pm.
Planning Your Essential Shop
Shoppers are urged to plan ahead, as opening times can vary by location. Both Sainsbury's and Tesco have cautioned that hours are dependent on individual stores, advising customers to use online store locators for the most accurate local information.
The widespread closures and reduced hours underscore a continued industry trend of prioritising staff welfare during the busy festive period, ensuring employees get a well-deserved break after the Christmas Day rush.
