December 31st 2024.
With Christmas Day behind us, the world is slowly returning to its usual hustle and bustle. The excitement of the holiday season is fading, but there's still one more big event to look forward to - the January sales. As UK high streets and supermarkets prepare for the rush, many are wondering what will be open on New Year's Day, a bank holiday in the UK.
While some stores will be opening their doors for essentials, not everything will be open on January 1. So what can we expect for shopping on the first day of the new year? Well, let's take a look.
It's no surprise that shopping districts often see large crowds on January 1, as eager shoppers take advantage of the start of the January sales. But what about other stores? Will they be open too? It's a quiet day for many, with some people taking part in a parkrun or focusing on their new year's resolutions. However, most shops are likely to be open, eager to promote and sell items at discounted prices.
Supermarkets and high street shops are expected to open as usual, although opening times may be slightly later. It's always a good idea to check before heading out to avoid any disappointment. Morrisons and Sainsbury's will be open from 9am to 6pm, but Tesco will be closed. Waitrose has confirmed that some stores will be open with reduced hours, so it's best to check with your local shop for confirmation. Asda will also be open from 9am to 6pm, but Marks and Spencer's will remain closed.
So what are the laws around opening hours on New Year's Day? Well, in 2025, shops will still be subject to the same rules. Small shops in England and Wales have the freedom to open any day or hour, while there are no trading hour restrictions in Scotland. However, larger shops must remain closed on Christmas Day and Easter Sunday, but these limits do not apply on bank holidays. This means that supermarkets like Aldi will be trading from 9.30am to 4pm on New Year's Day, providing shoppers with more opportunities to snag some great deals.
But not all shops will be open on New Year's Day. Most post offices and banks will be closed, although cash machines will likely still be working. Offices and public services, such as libraries, may also be closed. It's also worth noting that many shops will have reduced hours, so it's best to check before heading out.
And let's not forget about travel plans on New Year's Day. It's a good idea to check for any motorway or train line repair works, as these may cause delays. While bank or public holidays do not have to be given as paid leave for staff, many employers choose to do so. However, all motorway service stations are required to remain open 24/7, 365 days a year for fuel, parking, and restroom facilities.
So there you have it - a breakdown of what to expect for shopping on New Year's Day. This article was first published on December 28, 2023. And as we all start to think about our new year's resolutions, some of us might be considering a new hairstyle for 2024. But before making any drastic changes, it's important to consider all your options. And for those in London, don't forget to plan ahead for the New Year's Eve fireworks - there are plenty of free viewing spots in the capital!
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