Selected Southern Co-op stores and forecourts across the South will open on Christmas Day, with colleagues opting to work to ensure communities can continue to access essential items.
On the 25 December 67 stores – just over a third of Southern Co-op’s retail estate – will open for a limited period, with main convenience stores trading from 10am–2pm and petrol station forecourts trading from 8am–6pm.
While most retailers will be closed on Christmas Day, these select stores will give their local customers a chance to pick up last-minute essentials - whether it’s the forgotten cranberry sauce, batteries for new toys, or extra ingredients when more guests than expected turn up for Christmas dinner.
The initiative was born from colleague feedback, with select store teams volunteering to open their doors for a few hours. From a desire to support customers and neighbours, to valuing the social connection of a shift or not personally marking the day themselves, colleagues shared a variety of reasons for getting behind the tills this festive season.
“Christmas Day looks different for everyone, but having access to essentials can make a real difference,” said COO Simon Eastwood.
“Our colleagues understand the importance of this and have put themselves forward to open selected stores for a short time.”
The list of participating stores and their opening hours will be available via the Southern Co-op store locator in the lead-up to Christmas Day.