For years, M&S had a reputation for being a bit Grumpy Grinch on Boxing Day. They’d open late, close early, or sometimes not open at all in smaller towns. It felt like a personal challenge: “Try to return that non-stick roasting tin now, sucker!” But times change, and so do retail strategies. Now, they’re in the game, but with a distinctly M&S twist—they’re open, but on their own terms.
Most larger M&S stores—the ones with a full food hall plus clothing—will open around 9 a.m. or 10 a.m. on Boxing Day. But here’s the kicker: smaller branches, especially those in retail parks or city centres, might not open until 11 a.m. or even later. And some still stay completely shut. It’s a postcode lottery that can make you feel personally slighted by the boss of Christmas. (Side note: have you tried checking their store locator while half-asleep and still wearing your pyjamas? It’s a digital endurance test.)
The food hall exception—because we need leftovers
Let’s be honest: the real reason anyone goes to M&S on Boxing Day is for the food. You need more cheese. You ran out of shortbread. You forgot the brandy butter, and your Aunt Carol is giving you the look. Luckily, M&S knows this. Food halls in larger stores often open slightly earlier than the main store—sometimes as early as 8 a.m..
But be warned: the Percy Pig fan club is rabid. If you’re planning to grab a bag of their sale-priced cookies, you’d better bring a rugby scrum mindset. And don’t even get me started on the reduced yellow-sticker items. I’ve seen a pensioner judo-flip a teenager for a half-price Christmas pudding. It’s a jungle, folks. You’ve been warned.
Boxing Day opening hours for John Lewis, M&S, Lidl, and more | Express
