M&S has changed its Christmas trading plans to help give its staff a well earned break, it was confirmed this afternoon.
The high street retailer was originally planning to open around 200 stores on Boxing Day, like it has done in previous years, but has made a U-turn and will keep all stores closed.
The decision was confirmed by M&S' chief executive today who announced the change was designed to help staff after they went "above and beyond" throughout 2020.
Steve Rowe, chief executive, said: “Throughout the pandemic, our colleagues have gone above and beyond to deliver for our customers and as we enter the busy festive season they are doubling down on their efforts once again to help our customers deliver the Christmas magic for their families and friends."
Demand on retailers has been huge this year and unprecedented due to the coronavirus pandemic. M&S Food Halls have remained open to customers helping them stock up on essentials while its clothing stores are currently closed but will reopen on December 2 when England's lockdown lifts.
The news M&S will remain closed on Boxing Day comes as it confirmed plans to operate its “longest ever opening hours” in the run up to Christmas.
Selected shops will be until midnight and yesterday the retailer confirmed its longer hours will apply on December 21, 22 and 23 at 400 of its stores, which is two-thirds of its operation in England. Those that don’t stay open until midnight will close at 10pm.
