High street chain confirms it will close ALL 650 shops for 72 hours over Christmas period

A spokesperson for the retailer stated: "Poundland has today confirmed that it will keep all its stores closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day as a thank you to colleagues for their hard work over the past twelve months."

The nationwide closures affect thousands of employees who would typically be expected to work during what is normally one of the busiest retail periods of the year.

Poundland is far from the only retailer giving workers time off this Boxing Day.

Aldi, Home Bargains, Halfords and The Range have all opted to keep their doors closed on 26 December, allowing staff to enjoy the bank holiday.

DIY giant B&Q will similarly remain shut, as will Pets at Home and Wickes.

Tesco is taking a mixed approach, with its larger superstores staying closed while many of its Express convenience branches will operate on reduced hours.

Home Bargains has maintained its commitment to providing employees with a complete break over the Christmas period, shutting every single one of its locations.

Not all retailers are shutting their doors on Boxing Day, however.

Lidl plans to welcome customers across most of the UK on 26 December, though shoppers should expect shorter opening hours for those picking up essentials.

Asda will also trade on Boxing Day, with the supermarket giant operating reduced hours and most branches reopening from mid-morning onwards.

Homeware retailer Dunelm is another chain choosing to stay open, giving customers the opportunity to browse on the bank holiday.

These stores offer options for those who need to shop during the festive period, though customers should check individual branch times as hours will differ from normal trading schedules.

Waitrose is adopting a slightly different strategy, keeping nearly all of its branches closed on Boxing Day with only a small number remaining operational to fulfil delivery platform orders.

The decision by multiple retailers to close during the festive period reflects a broader shift in high street attitudes towards staff welfare during what has traditionally been a crucial trading window.

For Poundland, the three-day closure represents a continuation of its long-standing tradition of placing employee time off above commercial considerations.

The move affects thousands of retail workers across the country who would ordinarily be required to work through the busy Christmas and New Year sales period.