The German discount retailer Aldi has announced that its Oxfordshire branches will not open on Boxing Day, granting employees additional time with their families during the festive period.
The supermarket group will also suspend operations on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Trading is set to resume on December 27 and on January 2.
According to Rachel Geary, who serves as communications director at Aldi UK, the company views the Christmas season as both significant for shoppers and demanding for its workforce.
Staff members dedicate considerable effort to ensuring customers can obtain all necessary items before the holiday.
The company expressed appreciation for this dedication.
By keeping branches shuttered on December 26, the retailer aims to recognise employees’ contributions while providing them with an adequate opportunity to rest and enjoy time with loved ones.
During the weeks preceding Christmas, individual store operating hours will differ, with numerous locations extending their trading times to accommodate seasonal shopping demand.
Shoppers seeking current information about specific branch opening times are encouraged to utilise the Aldi Store Finder tool as the date approaches.
Entry-level compensation for store assistants in Oxfordshire currently stands at £13.50 per hour, with incremental increases reaching £14.47 for those with extended tenure.
Aldi maintains its position as the sole major grocery retailer to provide paid rest breaks to its store employees, a benefit estimated to deliver annual value of approximately £1,500 for an average worker.