Usdaw urges retailers to close on Boxing Day to give staff a break.
- Poundland confirms closure on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
- Campaign advocates that open stores should only have volunteer staff.
- Usdaw encourages other retailers to follow Poundland’s example.
- Poundland’s recruitment drive hires over 1,000 seasonal workers.
The trade union Usdaw is calling upon more retailers to close their stores on Boxing Day in order to provide retail workers with a much-needed break. With Poundland announcing its decision to close its over 800 stores on both Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, the movement gains further momentum.
Usdaw has consistently campaigned for retailers to grant their employees the longest feasible break over the festive season. They emphasised that if a store must remain open, it should be staffed by volunteers to ensure those working are doing so by choice, not obligation.
Bally Auluk, Usdaw’s national officer, expressed gratitude towards Poundland for continuing its tradition of closing stores during the festive periods. Auluk stated, ‘This is a much-appreciated continuation of past years’ festive closures.’ He reiterated that granting shop workers a significant holiday break should not be considered an excessive demand.
Usdaw hopes other retailers will adopt similar closure policies to let their employees enjoy the festive period and recuperate. This call aligns with their belief that employees deserve a significant breather after the busy holiday season.
Simultaneously, Poundland is actively recruiting over 1,000 seasonal colleagues across the UK and Ireland, highlighting the peak demand faced during this period. Simon Wells, Poundland’s people director, recognises the hard work and dedication of Poundland staff, noting their exceptional performance during Christmas. He affirmed the company’s commitment to rewarding them with a well-earned rest after the season.
Usdaw continues to advocate for longer festive breaks for retail workers, hoping more retailers will follow Poundland’s lead.
