Despite Boxing Day traditionally being a key date in the diary for sale-savvy shoppers, research shows that the majority of UK consumers (92%) support retailers who choose to keep their doors closed on Boxing Day, a move also welcomed by retail staff.

The research released today by Homebase, one of the UK’s leading home improvement and garden retailers, supports its decision, which was announced to internal teams in October, to close all stores nationwide on 26 December.

While support for an extended Christmas break for retail staff is generally universal (97%), consumers aged 16-24 are the age group least likely to back the move (87%), while over 55’s are the top supporters (95%).

Damian McGloughlin, CEO Homebase said: "The lead up to Christmas is always one of the busiest times for retailers, with in-store and support teams all working hard together to deliver for customers as they get ready for Christmas.

“For the first time this year and as a huge thank you to our team, all Homebase stores will be closed until 27 December, giving everyone an extremely well-deserved extra day's break – however they wish to spend it.

“It's great to see the whole country getting behind the move for retailers to give their teams this extra day off."