M&S confirms it will close all stores on Boxing Day to give staff a break

M&S has confirmed it will be closing all of its operations on Boxing Day, so workers can spend some quality time with their families.

It has announced its plan to reverse the decision to open on Boxing Day, which will be welcome news to staff.

As such, the 200 stores that were going to remain open on December 26th will now be closed.

According to M&S, the decision was made so that all workers can spend time with families and loved ones, following the government’s plans to relax rules over Christmas.

Mtaylor848 / Wikimedia

M&S CEO Steve Rowe said: “Throughout the pandemic, our colleagues have gone above and beyond to deliver for our customers and as we enter the busy festive season they are doubling down on their efforts once again to help our customers deliver the Christmas magic for their families and friends.

“2020 has been a uniquely challenging year for everyone and this Christmas, the celebrations we have, will be more precious than ever.

“That’s why in the run up to Christmas we are opening longer hours and have accelerated the launch of new digital services such as Sparks Book & Shop to help our customers prepare, but it’s also why we have taken the decision to close our operations on Boxing Day, so that our colleagues can enjoy more special time with their loved ones.

“This is a big decision, but it is absolutely the right one given the incredible effort everyone has made in the most challenging of circumstances.”

The move means all M&S owned stores, the Customer Contact centre and its Distribution Centre in Castle Donington will be closed on both December 25th and 26th.

Well done M&S!