High street jewelry chain Beaverbrooks has announced the closure of all its 83 stores on Boxing Day, offering its employees an additional week of pay. This move is part of Beaverbrooks’ annual tradition to grant its staff a day off on December 26 as a gesture of appreciation for their hard work throughout the year. The company, established in 1919 by the Adlestone brothers in Belfast, Northern Ireland, also revealed its recruitment of 50 seasonal positions in various locations.
Anna Blackburn, Managing Director of Beaverbrooks, emphasized the company’s commitment to prioritizing its employees by providing them with well-deserved time off to unwind and reconnect with loved ones after the busy holiday season. Blackburn expressed hope that their actions would set an example for other businesses to follow and highlighted the significance of the seasonal recruits in maintaining exceptional customer service standards during the peak period.
In a similar vein, Home Bargains has confirmed its decision to close all its stores not only on Boxing Day but also for three days over the Christmas period, including New Year’s Day. This practice, consistent with previous years, aims to give their dedicated staff a break during the festive season. M&S, on the other hand, initiated the practice of closing its stores on Boxing Day in 2020 as a gesture of gratitude to its employees for their efforts during the challenging times of the Covid pandemic. Aldi has also announced the closure of all its stores on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, with regular operations resuming thereafter.
As the holiday season approaches, various retailers are taking steps to prioritize the well-being of their employees by offering them valuable time off to recharge and spend with family and friends. This trend reflects a growing emphasis on employee welfare and underscores the importance of recognizing and rewarding their hard work and dedication.