As the festive cheer continues into the final days of December, many across the UK begin to wonder: which supermarkets are open on Boxing Day? Whether it’s a last-minute run for forgotten trimmings or a hunt for post-Christmas bargains, knowing which stores are trading on 26 December is essential.
While Christmas Day sees nearly all major supermarkets and retailers closed, Boxing Day presents a mixed landscape. Some stores open their doors with reduced hours, while others choose to remain closed to allow their staff a well-earned break.
This guide brings together the latest updates on which UK supermarkets and high street stores will be open or closed on Boxing Day 2025, including confirmed times, closures, and practical advice for shoppers.
Why Do Some Supermarkets Stay Open on Boxing Day in the UK?
Boxing Day, once reserved for rest and leftovers, has increasingly become a key shopping day. With many families hosting gatherings beyond Christmas Day, demand for fresh supplies, discounted goods and convenience shopping remains high.
However, not all retailers choose to trade. Many now prioritise staff wellbeing by offering them additional time off, reflecting a shift in the traditional retail calendar.
Is Tesco Open on Boxing Day 2025?
Tesco has confirmed that it will open most of its stores on Boxing Day, although with revised hours across different store types:
- Tesco Extra and Superstores: 9 AM to 6 PM
- Tesco Express: Majority open 9 AM to 7 PM, with some larger locations closing at 6 PM
Tesco is one of the few supermarkets operating a relatively broad service on Boxing Day, though it’s strongly recommended to check local store listings, as opening times can vary depending on size and location.
Will Asda Stores Be Open for Boxing Day Shoppers?
Asda has confirmed that all UK stores will be open from 9 AM to 6 PM on Boxing Day. This follows the supermarket’s consistent approach to festive trading in recent years, providing customers with access to both groceries and general merchandise.
Shoppers can expect the following:
- A reduced in-store team due to holiday staffing
- Busy footfall during late morning and mid-afternoon
- Availability of basic groceries and festive clearance items
Asda will return to regular trading hours on 27 December.
What Are Morrisons’ Boxing Day Opening Hours?
Morrisons is another major supermarket remaining open on Boxing Day, operating from 9am to 6pm. This includes the majority of its branches across the UK.
Shoppers visiting Morrisons on Boxing Day can typically expect:
- Fresh produce restocked from early morning
- In-store bakeries and food counters operating at reduced capacity
- Christmas clearance items across seasonal aisles
However, due to local staffing and site-specific logistics, some smaller stores may close earlier, so a quick check via the Morrisons store locator is advised.
Are Sainsbury’s Supermarkets Open on December 26?
Sainsbury’s has not yet officially confirmed all Boxing Day hours but is expected to follow its usual format:
- Superstores: 9 AM to 6 PM
- Sainsbury’s Local (Convenience stores): 9 AM to 9 PM
Most branches will be open with reduced staffing and service levels. Shoppers are encouraged to check the Sainsbury’s website or app for real-time store information, particularly in city centre and transport hub locations.
Is M&S Trading on Boxing Day or Staying Closed?
Marks & Spencer (M&S) has confirmed that most of its stores will be closed on Boxing Day, in line with previous years. This move is part of the retailer’s ongoing commitment to staff wellbeing during the festive period.
Exceptions include:
- M&S outlet branches, often in retail parks
- M&S stores located within service stations, which may operate on a limited schedule
For customers hoping to snag Boxing Day bargains at M&S, checking ahead via their online store locator is crucial.
Will Aldi and Lidl Be Open for Post-Christmas Shopping?
The two discount giants will take differing approaches to Boxing Day 2025.
Aldi
- All UK stores will remain closed on Boxing Day
- Reopening scheduled for 27 December
- Last trading day before the holiday: Christmas Eve (7 AM to 6 PM)
Lidl
- Some stores inside the M25 will open with reduced hours
- Most stores outside the M25 and in Wales will be closed
- Opening times vary by location
Aldi maintains its long-standing policy of allowing staff time off on Boxing Day, while Lidl offers more flexibility depending on demand and location.
Which Other UK Retailers Are Open or Closed on Boxing Day?
Beyond the major supermarket chains, several popular high street and discount retailers have shared their Christmas trading plans.
Retailers Closed on Boxing Day
- Aldi
- Home Bargains
- Marks & Spencer (most stores)
- Pets at Home
- Wickes
- B&Q
- Lidl (outside M25 and Wales)
Retailers Open on Boxing Day (hours may vary)
- Boots
- Superdrug
- H&M
- Primark
- Poundland
- Co-op (10am to 7pm, varies by store)
It’s important to note that even open stores may operate with shortened hours, and some may only open select locations based on demand.
What Are the Full Christmas & New Year 2025 Supermarket Opening Times?
To help you plan ahead, here’s a table summarising the major UK supermarket hours over the festive period:
| Supermarket | Christmas Eve | Christmas Day | Boxing Day | New Year’s Eve | New Year’s Day |
| Tesco | 6am–7pm (Express 7am–10pm) | Closed | 9am–6pm (Express 9am–7pm) | 6am–7pm (Express 7am–10pm) | 9am–6pm (Express 8am–10pm) |
| Sainsbury’s | 6am–7pm (Convenience 6am–9pm) | Closed | 9am–6pm (Convenience 9am–9pm) | 10am–7pm (Convenience 6am–9pm) | 8am–8pm (Convenience 9am–9pm) |
| Aldi | 7am–6pm | Closed | Closed | 8am–6pm | Closed |
| Lidl | 7am–6pm | Closed | Varies (mostly closed) | 8am–6pm | Closed |
| Asda | 5am–7pm | Closed | 9am–6pm | 7am–7pm | 9am–6pm |
| Co-op | Usual to 7pm (Convenience 6–8pm) | Closed | 10am–7pm (Convenience 9am–7pm) | Usual to 7pm | 10am–7pm (Convenience 9am–8pm) |
How Can You Check Your Local Supermarket’s Opening Hours?
Because hours can vary significantly by store, especially in larger cities or rural areas, it’s best to:
- Visit the official website of the supermarket
- Use the store locator tools
- Check Google Maps for live updates
- Monitor social media accounts for changes or announcements
This will ensure that your trip isn’t wasted, especially on a bank holiday like Boxing Day.
What Should Shoppers Keep in Mind During Boxing Day Sales?
Boxing Day is traditionally one of the busiest shopping days of the year. Supermarket sales, although less aggressive than fashion retailers, often include:
- Discounts on leftover festive stock
- Reductions on seasonal food and drink
- Clearance sales on home and kitchen products
Be mindful of the following:
- Peak hours are usually late morning and mid-afternoon
- Stock may be limited, especially fresh produce
- Social distancing or capacity rules may apply in some locations
Conclusion
In summary, Tesco, Asda, Morrisons, and Sainsbury’s will all be open on Boxing Day, operating with reduced hours and services. Lidl will open some of its locations, while Aldi, M&S, and others will remain shut.
Whether you’re stocking up for New Year or grabbing a festive deal, it’s best to plan ahead and check the latest local information before you head out.
FAQs About Boxing Day Supermarket Hours
Do any 24-hour supermarkets stay open on Boxing Day?
No, most 24-hour stores operate limited hours on Boxing Day due to holiday staffing.
Are supermarket pharmacies open on December 26?
Some in-store pharmacies, like Boots and selected Tesco branches, may open with restricted hours.
Will petrol station stores be open on Boxing Day?
Yes, many convenience stores at service stations, such as Tesco Express or M&S Simply Food, remain open.
Can I shop online for groceries on Boxing Day?
Yes, but availability for delivery or click-and-collect is limited depending on location.
Which supermarkets offer home delivery on Boxing Day?
Most pause delivery on Boxing Day but resume services from 27 December.
Why do some stores choose to stay closed after Christmas?
Many retailers prioritise staff wellbeing and reduce operating costs during the quieter festive period.
Are there special Boxing Day deals at supermarkets?
Yes, many supermarkets discount seasonal items and non-food products like homeware and toys.
