Here’s what you need to know before you head out shopping this weekend
With a three-day weekend on the way for most Brits, many might find themselves with a bit of extra time to hit the shops. Whether it’s refreshing their wardrobe or giving their home a new look, there’s no shortage of retailers offering something for every need.
However, on Monday, May 4, the usual trading rules for popular high street stores like B&M, Dunelm, Home Bargains and Primark will differ. The bank holiday won’t force any of these major retailers to shut their doors for the day, unlike the closures seen over Christmas or parts of Easter.
Most, however, will change the opening and closing times depending on where you are in the country. Shoppers are advised to check with their nearest stores beforehand to avoid turning up either too early or too late.
Stores often close early on bank holidays to give staff a chance to enjoy these holidays too. In some cases, it might be less profitable for shops to stay open late on bank holidays, reducing the business incentive to do so, reports the Express.
B&M
B&M’s website confirms that stores will be open on Monday, May 4, though hours may differ. Most branches are expected to open as early as 8am and remain open until 8pm
In certain locations, stores may opt to open from 9am or close as early as 6pm. The B&M Store Locator on its official website is the best way to find out exactly how your local branch will be operating.
Unlike Easter Sunday, when Scottish stores remain open while English stores close, for the May Bank Holiday, Scotland typically follows the same reduced hours as the rest of the UK, though some branches may stay open slightly later.
As B&M doesn’t operate uniform opening hours across all its stores, shoppers are best advised to check locally for details about their nearest branch.
Dunelm
For the May Bank Holiday on Monday, Dunelm stores throughout the UK will also be operating on reduced hours. On a typical weekday, Dunelm stores generally remain open until 9pm, but bank holidays bring notable adjustments to both opening and closing times.
The majority of stores will shut earlier in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, with doors closing from 6pm, though it’s worth checking online as some local branches may operate slightly different hours. Scottish stores frequently maintain their standard Monday hours during ‘English’ bank holidays, however the May holiday dates can sometimes align with stores nationwide.
Home Bargains
Home Bargains branches across the UK will also be winding down earlier on Monday, May 4, but are likely to stick to their usual opening times throughout the country. Shoppers should be able to browse as they would on any ordinary Monday, but should bear in mind that stores may close several hours ahead of the standard weekday schedule.
Most branches will close at 6pm, though the store locator tool can check any changes at your nearest location. Scottish Home Bargains outlets frequently adhere to their regular trading hours on May bank holidays, remaining open until 8pm or beyond.
Primark
Primark stores will be operating on shorter hours this bank holiday, May 4. Most branches will open between 9am and 10am before shutting earlier than normal, from 6pm in certain locations.
Primark branches across Scotland typically stick to standard Monday opening times, although smaller high street locations may still choose to close at 6pm. Check online for precise information about Primark stores in your area.
