Marks & Spencer cancels tradition: stores will open on Boxing Day after five years.

Changes in Marks & Spencer's operations at Christmas

According to The Sun: Marks & Spencer is preparing for significant changes in its operations at Christmas. For the first time in five years, the company has decided that more staff will work on December 26, St. Stephen's Day.

They are abandoning the tradition of closing most stores on this day to prepare for one of the busiest shopping periods of the year.

These changes will affect stores across the UK. M&S aims to improve its operations after Christmas and ensure timely restocking of products on shelves.

According to The Guardian, approximately a quarter of store employees are expected to work on St. Stephen's Day, and all staff must work at least one of the days – December 26, 27, or 28.

A document from Marks & Spencer obtained by the publication showed that last year over 40% of permanent staff and 30% of seasonal workers did not work on one of these peak days.

The company noted that this led to difficulties in restocking and maintaining service standards.

“All colleagues must contribute to a successful Christmas.”

Marks & Spencer's Operations Director Jane Wall said: “Christmas at Marks and Spencer is a very special time, and we are grateful to our hardworking employees who make our stores wonderful places for our customers to shop.”

“This year we will have more colleagues working than ever before, so we are ready to welcome customers on December 27.”

This move is a significant shift for M&S as in 2020 the company decided to close most of its stores on St. Stephen's Day as a gesture of appreciation for employees' efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This policy continued with the intention of giving staff a “well-deserved break with family and loved ones.”

However, this year the changes come after several challenging months for the business.

M&S experienced a major cyber attack at Easter, which caused widespread disruptions in systems and operations. The company faced staff shortages and logistical issues, necessitating changes to the Christmas work schedule.

Not all employees are happy with these decisions. Some feel pressured to take on extra hours during a time that is typically considered important for family gatherings.

“This year has been particularly tough for colleagues who suffered from the cyber incident, and the company has not sought to provide extra hours, so many stores are facing staff shortages.”

“It feels like another slap in the face after everything that has happened.”

Another employee expressed dissatisfaction in an internal message, stating: “Over the past few months, it has been acknowledged that colleagues have gone above and beyond, doing everything they can to maintain high standards and provide excellent service in very challenging conditions.”

“That is why it is very disappointing that Christmas – such an important time for family – is experiencing disruption for many of us.”

“Instead of feeling rewarded for our commitment, it feels more like punishment.”

The situation at Marks & Spencer reflects the overall difficulties that retail chains in the UK are facing today. In light of the post-lockdown recovery in demand and market instability, the company has decided to revisit its approaches to working during the holidays. This may have far-reaching consequences for employee welfare and the company's overall strategy.

Future developments will show how the Christmas changes will affect M&S's operations and whether the company will be prepared for the challenges that the new year may bring.