As the festive season reaches its climax, shoppers across the UK are making their final preparations for New Year's celebrations. With Christmas Day now behind us, attention turns to stocking up for parties and quiet nights in. Major supermarket chains have now confirmed their revised trading hours for both New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, with significant variations between larger stores and local convenience branches.
Key Supermarket Hours for New Year's Eve
On Monday 31 December 2024, most major supermarkets will operate reduced hours, closing earlier than usual to allow staff to celebrate. Shoppers are advised to plan their trips accordingly to avoid disappointment.
Tesco will open its large stores from 6am until 7pm, while its smaller Express outlets will trade for longer, from 7am until 10pm. Asda and Morrisons have both set their closing time at 7pm, with opening from 7am. Sainsbury's main stores will be open from 10am to 7pm, but its convenience shops will welcome customers from 6am until 9pm.
The discount retailers Aldi and Lidl will both be open from 8am until 6pm on New Year's Eve. Marks and Spencer food halls will trade from 8am to 7pm. The Co-op has stated its stores will close at 7pm, with convenience branches open from 6am or 7am until 8pm. Waitrose has confirmed it will be open on New Year's Eve, though individual store hours may vary.
New Year's Day Opening Times
Tuesday 1 January 2024 will see a more mixed picture, with several retailers choosing to remain closed for the bank holiday.
Aldi, Lidl, Waitrose, and Marks and Spencer will all be closed for New Year's Day. For shoppers needing essentials, other chains will be open with limited hours.
Tesco large stores will operate from 9am to 6pm, with Express stores open from 8am until 10pm. Sainsbury's main supermarkets will trade from 8am to 8pm, while its local shops are scheduled from 9am to 9pm.
Asda and Morrisons will both be open from 9am until 6pm. The Co-op will open its stores from 10am to 7pm, with convenience branches trading from 9am to 8pm.
Planning Your Festive Shop
With hours subject to last-minute changes, it is always wise to check your local store's website or social media for the most accurate information before travelling. The reduced hours over the festive period are a standard practice, allowing hard-working staff to enjoy the holidays with their families.
Shoppers looking to purchase last-minute party snacks, celebratory drinks, or ingredients for a New Year's Day meal should note the early closures on New Year's Eve and the limited availability on New Year's Day itself. Planning ahead is key to ensuring your celebrations go off without a hitch.
