Shoppers have been warned to plan ahead after Aldi announced it will close every UK store for three days later this year to give staff a well-earned Christmas break.

The budget supermarket chain confirmed it will shut all branches on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day, before reopening on Saturday, December 27, and again on Friday, January 2 following the New Year’s closure.

Bosses said the move was designed to allow employees to relax and spend more time with family and friends over the festive period.

Aldi will, however, extend its opening hours in the run-up to Christmas to ensure customers have extra time to stock up on festive essentials. Exact opening times for each store are expected to be announced closer to the holiday season.

An Aldi spokesperson said:

“We know how important it is for our colleagues to be able to spend time with loved ones at Christmas. That’s why we’ll be closing our stores on December 25, 26, and January 1 so everyone can enjoy a well-deserved break.”

The announcement means shoppers will need to plan their big festive shop carefully to avoid last-minute disappointment, particularly as demand for groceries and seasonal treats surges in the days before Christmas.

Aldi has traditionally closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, but the extra day of closure for New Year’s Day reflects the chain’s continued focus on staff wellbeing.

Details of the supermarket’s extended opening hours in the lead-up to Christmas are expected to be released later this year.