Home Bargains to close Essex stores on major shopping date

Home Bargains at Westgate Retail Park in Basildon <i>(Image: Google Street View)</i>
Home Bargains at Westgate Retail Park in Basildon (Image: Google Street View)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.

Home Bargains stores across Essex will be closed on a major retail day later this year. 

The popular retailer said more than 600 UK stores would close on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day, affecting 12 branches across Essex.

In Essex, the stores to close on the major shopping date are:

  • Chelmsford Riverside Retail Park
  • Maldon Blackwater Retail Park
  • Basildon Mayflower Retail Park
  • Basildon Westgate Retail Park
  • Harlow Oaks Retail Park
  • Southend Airport Retail Park
  • Epping Forest Retail Park
  • Colchester Petorolea Close
  • Colchester Lightship Way
  • Thurrock Shopping Park
  • Waltham Abbey Highbridge Retail Park
  • Lakeside Retail Park.

The closures mean shoppers cannot visit the retailer on Boxing Day, traditionally one of the busiest shopping days of the year.

Many high street and retail park stores begin post-Christmas sales on that day, but Home Bargains will remain closed.

The retailer, founded in 1976, employs around 28,000 people and sells homeware, garden and outdoor goods, toys, food, branded products and seasonal items.

It has not yet confirmed festive opening hours for Christmas Eve, December 27, New Year's Eve or January 2.

Customers planning a festive shop are advised to check their local branch's hours before travelling.

The announcement follows the retailer’s decision in 2025 to close for the same three dates.

It has made no further comment about arrangements.

A spokesperson last year said: "Our colleagues work incredibly hard throughout the year, and we want to recognise that commitment. As a family-run business, we understand the importance of spending time with family and friends, particularly over the holidays.

"We're proud to give our teams additional time off to enjoy the festive season."

Get involved
with the news

Send your news & photos