Aldi and Lidl are set to temporarily close a significant number of their stores in England and Wales due to legal obligations. This closure affects over 1,070 Aldi branches and more than 820 Lidl locations, in line with the Sunday Trading Act 1994. This law restricts larger retail premises from trading on Easter Sunday and Christmas Day.
Details of the Temporary Closures
The closures will occur on April 5, 2026, which falls on Easter Sunday. This annual shutdown aligns with existing practices both chains observe regarding bank holiday trading regulations. Here’s a breakdown of their schedules during the extended bank holiday weekend:
- Good Friday (April 3, 2026): Aldi: 8am – 9pm, Lidl: 9am – 10pm
- Easter Saturday (April 4, 2026): Aldi: 8am – 9pm
- Easter Sunday (April 5, 2026): All stores closed
- Easter Monday (April 6, 2026): Aldi: 8am – 8pm, Lidl: Shortened hours
The Importance of Family Time
Rachel Geary, communications director at Aldi UK, highlighted the significance of the holiday for staff and customers. The temporary closures serve as an opportunity for employees to celebrate the holiday with their families. Geary expressed that Easter is a time for gathering and enjoying food together.
Shoppers in Scotland
Scottish customers will not experience the same restrictions. Scotland has a different retail framework, allowing stores to operate regardless of size on Easter Sunday. Therefore, both Aldi and Lidl locations in Scotland will continue to function under their regular Sunday hours during the bank holiday.
Verifying Local Store Hours
Customers across the UK are advised to check their local store’s specific trading hours. Both retailers offer online tools for shoppers to find their nearest store and confirm operational times, which may vary slightly across locations.
Aldi’s Expansion Plans
Aldi currently has around 1,086 stores in the UK. The company aims to increase this number to 1,500 branches in the coming years, continuing to offer competitive value and shopping options for customers nationwide.
