**Supermarket Opening Hours Announced for Late May Bank Holiday 2024 Across Wales**
Wales is preparing for its late May bank holiday on Monday, 26 May, 2024—a long-awaited respite for many citizens eager for a well-earned break. Whether residents are choosing to relax at home or spend quality time with loved ones, the extended weekend could include a much-needed shopping trip to restock essentials. As always with bank holidays, it’s important to pay close attention to changes in supermarket opening hours, avoiding any last-minute surprises.
While the weather forecast hints at less than ideal conditions, it seems it will do little to deter plans for the bank holiday. From quick dashes for forgotten barbecue ingredients to stocking up on bank holiday treats, supermarkets across the country are sure to experience a notable surge in customers. Despite this, the majority of leading supermarkets have confirmed that their standard trading hours will remain largely unchanged, though some have advised customers of slightly reduced opening times.
If you are among those planning to shop during the bank holiday, it pays to note the specific opening and closing hours for each chain, which may differ based on store size and location. It’s always safest to double-check directly with your local branch or via the retailer’s official website or app before heading out.
**Aldi** customers will encounter some notable adjustments. The budget superstore will be closing slightly earlier than its usual hours, welcoming shoppers from 8am until 8pm. While not a drastic reduction, it still marks a difference that regular customers should keep in mind to avoid a wasted journey.
**Lidl** is following a similar approach, with adjusted trading hours in place for the bank holiday. Although the discounter has not provided a blanket statement on all Welsh store times, online listings suggest that most branches will open from 8am until 8pm. The company encourages customers to confirm timings for their nearest store, as variability may occur depending on location.
When it comes to **Tesco**, the situation is a little more complex. The UK’s largest supermarket is maintaining regular hours at some stores, while elsewhere shoppers will find reduced service—predominantly from 8am to 6pm at certain Express and Superstore sites. As opening hours may shift between one store and the next, Tesco is advising all bank holiday shoppers to check their specific local store for accurate information.
**Morrisons** has also confirmed earlier closing times at both their larger supermarkets and Daily Convenience outlets throughout Wales. Most of the chain’s main stores are expected to trade from 7am to 8pm, meaning an earlier finish than many shoppers may be accustomed to on a typical weekday.
**Asda** branches, renowned for 24-hour trading schedules, are making some temporary adjustments as well. While a handful of stores will continue to operate around the clock, others will observe reduced hours—opening from 8am until 10pm for the holiday. Many forecourts and Express-style outlets will maintain 24-hour service, offering a reliable option for late or early shoppers.
**Sainsbury’s** has announced that most of its Welsh sites will also be closing earlier than standard. The major supermarket chain will generally open from 8am to 8pm on the holiday, though its smaller convenience stores are expected to continue with the usual 7am to 11pm service, offering flexibility for those with busy schedules.
**M&S Food Halls** will be amongst those closing a little earlier on bank holiday Monday, with most stores in Wales open for trading from 8am to 7pm. The shift to shorter operating hours is a recurring theme among supermarket giants this May, reflecting a cautious approach to anticipated holiday footfall and staffing.
For shoppers across Wales, planning retail visits with these adjusted schedules in mind will help ensure a hassle-free bank holiday. Opening times have been confirmed at the time of writing, but stores sometimes make last-minute changes. Staying informed by consulting official apps or websites remains the best policy to avoid disappointment at the supermarket door.
As the bank holiday approaches, the consistent advice from retailers is to check ahead for local store hours—ensuring a smooth and stress-free start to the long weekend for everyone in Wales.