Which shops are open New Year’s Day 2026? Supermarkets and DIY stores that will be open in the UK on January 1
Several major shops will open their stores on New Year’s Day, so you can start your 2026 with a shopping trip.
Another New Year is upon us, and for some of us that means it’s time to head out on the first shopping trip of 2026 to buy new goods.
But, which shops will be open for eager shoppers to spend some of their Christmas money? Even though January 1, which this festive season falls on a Thursday, is a bank holiday, many stores will remain open.
This means that shoppers can pick up their first purchases of the new year; whether that be a treat or something essential. The good news is, many shops also launch their new year sales too so it’s likely you’ll be able to bag some bargains.
It's important to be aware though that many of the shops which will be open will be changing their opening hours to give their workers a chance to enjoy the season. Some stores will operate with reduced hours, for example, but others may only have branches open in some of the four nations.
Below you will find a list of retailers which will be open on New Year’s Day 2026, so you can be sure where you can visit on Thursday January 1, if shopping is one of your favourite pastimes.
Please be aware though that all times given below are general guidelines, we advise checking the specific times of your local store before heading out as there will be variations according to area and store size.
When is New Year's Day 2026?
New Year’s Day 2026 is on Thursday January 1.
What shops are open on New Year’s Day 2026?
These are the shops that are opening at least some of their stores on New Year’s Day 2026. Read on for more details.
B&Q
On New Year’s Day, all stores will be open from 10am to 4pm. Check the B&Q store locator for details of your local shop.
Wickes
On New Year’s Day Wickes will be open in England and Wales from 10am until 4pm but stores in Scotland will be closed. You can use the online store finder tool to locate your nearest.
Asda
On New Year’s Day, Asda store will generally open from 9am to 6pm. You can double check local store opening times on Asda’s website.
Morrisons
On New Year’s Day Morrisons stores will also be open from 9am to 6pm in most cases. Got to the store finder page on their website to check if this applies to your local store.
Tesco
On New Year’s Day Tesco Extra & Superstores will open from 9am to 6pm and Tesco Express stores from 8am to 10pm. The store locator page on the Tesco website will let you know if this is the case for Tesco stores near you.
Sainsbury’s
On New Year’s Day Sainsbury's Supermarkets are opening from 8am to 8pm while their Convenience stores will open from 9am to 9pm. Go to the Sainsbury's store finder on the website to check individual store opening times.
Co-op
On New Year’s Day Co-op stores will open from 9am to 8pm and you can check your local stores opening times via the branch finder on the website.
Iceland
On New Year’s Day Iceland stores will be open from 10am to 5pm in most case. Double check your local store opening times at the Iceland website.
On New Year’s Day Waitrose will also be open. You can go along to most stores from 10am to 6pm but it's worth checking the store finder page on their website to double check before heading out.