Halfords has declared that all its stores will be shut on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day this year. The automotive retailer aims to provide its UK staff a well-deserved break to enjoy time with their families. While Halfords stores will be closed on Christmas Day as well, they will operate normally on all other days during the festive period.

Henry Birch, the CEO of Halfords, expressed gratitude towards the hard work of their employees throughout the year, emphasizing the importance of allowing them to unwind and bond with loved ones. Birch stated that closing the stores on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day is a gesture of appreciation and ensures that the teams return rejuvenated for the upcoming year.

Following an increase in sales and profits in the past six months, Halfords reported a 9% surge in cycling business sales for the half-year ending on September 26 compared to the previous year. This growth contributed to a 3.3% rise in total revenues amounting to £893.3 million during the same period. Additionally, like-for-like motoring revenues saw a 1.1% increase, and the autocentres business witnessed a 4.3% growth.

Apart from Halfords, Home Bargains is also planning to keep its stores closed on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. The budget supermarket chain Aldi has traditionally kept its doors shut on these days, focusing on extended operating hours leading up to Christmas to accommodate customer needs.

Rebecca Heley, the Communications Director at Aldi UK, highlighted the significance of the festive season and ensuring their staff can relax and celebrate with their families. She confirmed that all Aldi stores will remain closed on Boxing Day this year as a token of appreciation for the hard work put in by the employees to deliver a memorable Christmas experience for customers.