Christmas is on its way, bringing with it a shift in the usual operating hours of supermarkets and retail outlets in the UK, including in Glasgow.

Shops traditionally closed early on Christmas Eve and remained closed on Christmas Day, with most reopening for Boxing Day sales. However, in recent years, many have extended their holiday closures to allow employees a much-needed respite after the festive rush.

This year, many leading retailers will continue the trend of staying closed on Boxing Day, following similar decisions made during the Covid-19 pandemic and associated lockdowns.

The following are the holiday operating schedules for several prominent supermarkets and stores in case you need to stock up on essential items like bread or household goods.

Aldi

This festive season Aldi has chosen to shut its doors on both Christmas and Boxing Day to thank its workforce. The majority of Aldi locations will resume operations with limited hours, 8am – 8pm, from December 27.

Review your local Aldi’s operating schedule.

Iceland

An Iceland supermarket employee scanning a customer's groceries.
Iceland has opted for closure this year
(Image: Getty Images)

Iceland confirmed that it, along with The Food Warehouse stores, will be closed on December 26. Most Iceland branches in locations such as Glasgow will reopen on December 27, typically from 9am to 7pm.

Verify your local Iceland and Food Warehouse operating times.

M&S

With an identical plan as other retailers, M&S stores will also be closed on Boxing Day, resuming operations from December 27 during regular business hours, usually between 9am and 10pm.

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Waitrose

All Waitrose stores in Scotland, including Glasgow, will be shut on December 26. However, those located in Welcome Break motorway service stations and Shell forecourts will remain open, some for 24 hours.

Check Waitrose’s Christmas operating hours for your area.

Home Bargains

The discount retailer disclosed in September that it would be closing on two days this year – Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Most stores will reopen with reduced hours, about 9am to 6pm, on December 27.

Review your local Home Bargains store’s operating schedule.

Poundland

A customer wearing a face mask inside a Poundland store
Poundland and various other retailers will be closed
(Image: Getty Images)

Like Home Bargains, Poundland will also be closed on both Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

Verify your local Poundland store’s operating schedule.

The Range and Wilko

The Range and Wilko stores will also stay closed this year, but most will have extended hours up until December 25.

Confirm your local The Range and Wilko Christmas operating hours.

Wickes

Wickes, a leading home improvement and garden retailer, will be closed for three days – Christmas Eve, Christmas, and Boxing Day. Regular hours will resume on December 27, typically between 7:30am and 7pm.

Check Wickes’ Christmas operating hours for your local store.

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