Halfords has made a decision to shut down all of 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 well-deserved break to spend quality time with their families. While Halfords establishments will be closed on Christmas Day as well, they will resume normal operations on all other days during the holiday season.

Henry Birch, the CEO of Halfords, expressed gratitude towards the staff for their exceptional dedication to customer service year-round, often working extended hours to keep the country moving. Recognizing their hard work, Birch highlighted the importance of allowing everyone the opportunity to unwind and enjoy precious moments with loved ones.

The decision to close stores on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day serves as a token of appreciation to the teams and ensures they return rejuvenated for the upcoming year. This move comes following Halfords’ positive financial performance in the past six months, with a notable 9% increase in cycling sales and a 3.3% rise in total revenues to £893.3 million. Additionally, the motoring and autocentres divisions experienced growth in like-for-like revenues.

Apart from Halfords, Home Bargains has also chosen to keep its stores closed on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, following a similar tradition. The retailer expressed gratitude to its employees for their hard work and encouraged them to relax and enjoy the holiday season with their loved ones. Similarly, Aldi will keep its doors shut on December 26 and January 1, offering extended hours in the lead-up to Christmas for customer convenience.

Rebecca Heley, the Communications Director at Aldi UK, emphasized the importance of allowing colleagues to unwind and celebrate the festive season with their families. The decision to close stores on Boxing Day reflects Aldi’s appreciation for the dedication of its employees in delivering exceptional service during the holiday period.