POUNDLAND has announced that it will be shut on two extra days over the Christmas period.

Today, at its Christmas conference in Manchester, Poundland told its 18,000 colleagues it would again give everyone a well-deserved break on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day and keep its stores closed.

It made the move last year for the first time, and will carry it over to this year too.

Barry Williams, Poundland’s managing director, said: “At the beginning of the pandemic in April 2020, we were the first retailer to commit to giving all our colleagues a well-earned rest at Christmas 2020 by keeping stores closed on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

“They deserve the same in 2021 and at our Christmas conference today in Manchester, we’ve shared that good news. 

“Throughout the last 18 months, our colleagues have been heroes – quietly turning up to work to serve their communities right across the UK and Ireland.

“By closing on Boxing Day and New Year’ Day, we recognise that service and the chance to spend extra time with their families.”

And there was more news for Poundland colleagues.  Poundland also confirmed it was doubling the value of its Christmas voucher for its 18,000-strong team, giving every member of staff £50 to spend on Christmas gifts.