Bargain retailer Poundland has become the latest chain to say it will join the national two-day shutdown to thank retail staff for their work during the pandemic.
It joins Sainsbury's, Argos, Habitat, Aldi, Morrisons, Waitrose, Home Bargains and Marks & Spencer in making the gesture.
The shops will all stay closed on Boxing Day as well as on Christmas Day - swerving the usual Boxing Day sales to give staff a long break.
Poundland will also close its shops on New Year’s Day so staff can spend more time with family and friends and will double the value of its Christmas voucher for its workers, giving every colleague £50 to spend.
There are 18,000 Poundland employees in the UK, with around 800 shops in total.
Barry Williams, Poundland’s managing director said: “At the beginning of the pandemic in April 2020, we were the first retailer to commit to giving all our colleagues a well-earned rest at Christmas 2020 by keeping stores closed on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
“They deserve the same in 2021 and at our Christmas conference today in Manchester, we’ve shared that good news.
“Throughout the last 18 months, our Colleagues have been heroes – quietly turning up to work to serve their communities right across the UK and Ireland.
“By closing on Boxing Day and New Year’ Day, we recognise that service and the chance to spend extra time with their families.”
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