One of the UK’s leading retail trade unions on Friday (17) has urged the retailers to “give shop workers the longest possible break over Christmas and New Year”.
Usdaw (Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers) was reacting to news that Poundland has decided to thank its 18,000 staff by again deciding to close stores on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
Dave Gill, Usdaw National officer said, “After discussions with Poundland we very much welcome the company again closing all their stores on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, to give their staff a proper break over the festive season. This is a much appreciated continuation of last year’s Boxing Day and New Year’s Day closures.
“We don’t think it is too much to ask to give shop workers the longest possible break over Christmas and New Year. We now hope that other retailers will follow suit, by closing their stores to help workers enjoy the festive season and give them a well-deserved breather.”
Bargain retailer Poundland is the latest chain to announce festive closures after similar announcements from Sainsbury’s, Argos, Habitat, Aldi, Morrisons, Waitrose, Home Bargains, Pets at Home and Marks & Spencer.
Usdaw is the UK’s fifth biggest trade union with over 380,000 members. Most Usdaw members work in the retail sector, but the union also has many members in transport, distribution, food manufacturing, chemical industry and other trades.