Beaverbrooks, a popular high street jewelry chain, has announced the closure of all its 83 stores on Boxing Day, providing its employees with an additional week of pay. This practice has become a customary way for Beaverbrooks to express gratitude to its staff for their hard work throughout the year. The company, founded in 1919 by the Adlestone brothers, Isaac, Harry, and Maurice, originated with its first store in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
Anna Blackburn, Managing Director of Beaverbrooks, emphasized the importance of family values within the business and highlighted the decision to offer their colleagues a well-deserved break to unwind and spend time with loved ones after the festive season. The company has also recruited 50 seasonal positions across its head office and selected stores to support operations during this period.
The company’s focus on prioritizing its employees has been central to creating a more engaged workforce and delivering exceptional customer service. Beaverbrooks hopes to set an example for other businesses by prioritizing employee well-being. In addition, the company is pleased to welcome seasonal hires to enhance customer service during the busiest time of the year.
Beaverbrooks is not alone in closing its doors on Boxing Day; Home Bargains has also confirmed its closure for three days over the Christmas period, maintaining its tradition of giving employees a break. Similarly, M&S and Aldi have announced their plans to close stores on Boxing Day, with M&S citing the gesture as a way to appreciate staff efforts during challenging times. Aldi will shut its stores on Christmas Day and reopen on December 27, with closures also planned for New Year’s Day.
These store closures reflect a growing trend among retailers to prioritize employee well-being and family time during the holiday season. The decision to close on these significant days underscores the importance of valuing and appreciating the hard work of employees across the retail sector.
