Major UK retailer to close most of its 229 stores for 24 hours next week

Major UK retailer to close most of its 229 stores for 24 hours next week Newspoint | 2026-03-30 04:39:27

Marks and Spencer has confirmed that hundreds of its stores will close for a 24-hour period this Easter Sunday. The closures will primarily affect larger stores across England, while M&S convenience outlets and Scottish branches will reportedly remain open. Shoppers are being advised to complete any Easter shopping before Sunday, as store opening times will vary across locations.

M&S will operate as usual on Good Friday and Easter Monday, though individual store hours may differ. Customers can check their local branch hours via the M&S website or mobile app.

Under the Sunday Trading Act 1994, large shops over 280 square metres or 3,000 square feet in England and Wales must remain closed on Easter Sunday.

This restriction does not apply to small shops. Small shops in England and Wales can open any day or hour. There are no trading hours restrictions in Scotland.

Those exempt from the Sunday trading restrictions for large shops include pharmacies, airport and railway station outlets, and service stations. Large shops that open when they're not supposed to can be fined.

M&S told The Sun: "Opening times will vary from store to store, so customers should visit the store locator page on our website to check the hours for their local store."

M&S joins other major supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury's, and Morrisons in adjusting opening hours over the Easter period.

Colin the Caterpillar is back in M&S stores this Easter. The limited-edition Easter Egg-Venture cake features chocolate carrots, mini chocolate eggs, colourful sprinkles shaped like flowers and eggs, and a pair of bunny ears to celebrate. Inside, it's the classic chocolate sponge rolled with creamy chocolate buttercream and coated in a smooth milk chocolate shell.

For smaller portions or sharing, M&S is also offering Mini Easter Egg-Venture Colin cakes. The full-size 650g cake is priced at £12.50 while the 175g minis cost £3.75.

Traditional Easter favourites are also on offer, including the Italian Colomba di Pasqua, Easter Simnel cakes and an assortment of extra thick chocolate eggs, pistachio-filled shells, caramel treats, and gooey filled eggs.