Morrisons to close ALL its supermarkets on Boxing Day to give staff a rest
MORRISONS will close all of its supermarkets on Boxing Day this year to give staff a break after working throughout the pandemic.
The grocer announced today that none of its 497 UK stores will open on December 26 as a reward for employees.
Morrisons usually opens branches on Boxing Day, meaning staff have to go back to work the day after Christmas.
A Morrisons spokesperson said: We know everyone at Morrisons has worked incredibly hard over the last 18 months and continues to do so, as together we’ve responded to the unprecedented challenges of a global pandemic, serving our customers and local communities, and caring so much for each other.
"We’ve been listening hard to colleagues about how best to say Thank You, and are really pleased to confirm that this year we will be closing all our supermarkets on Boxing Day, so as many of our key workers as possible can enjoy a two day weekend break with family, friends and other loved ones."
Boxing Day is a busy day for trading as Brits flock to the shops to enjoy the post-Christmas sales.
Last year Morrisons opened up at 9am but it was voluntary for staff to work and those who did got double pay.
Retail workers' union Usdaw is urging shops to give their workers the longest possible break over the Christmas season.
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Usdaw National Officer Joanne McGuiness said: “The last year-and-a-half has been unlike any other.
"The pandemic meant shopworkers stepped up and kept essential services running.
"We welcome Morrisons doing the right thing by their staff with the closure of supermarkets on Boxing Day."
Last year M&S closed for Boxing Day to allow staff to spend more time with their families over the festive period.
Aldi and Waitrose were among the supermarkets to remain closed on the day after Christmas, along with Home Bargains and DIY chain Wickes.