THERE are some Christmas traditions that run in the family, and that’s exactly what a national jewellers chain is doing.
Beaverbooks has announced that it is giving all its staff members Boxing Day off, just as it has done for the past 103 years.
The managing Director of the family-owned firm, Anna Blackburn, said: “In Beaverbrooks’ 103-year history we have never opened on Boxing Day, to give our amazing colleagues more time to spend with their families and thank them for their hard work throughout the year.
“As a business run on strong family values this is something that has always been incredibly important to us, and this year our 70 stores will remain closed on the date once again, to allow our people to enjoy well-earned time with their loved ones after the busy Christmas period.”
She said that, in addition to the extra family day, the company will give a festive bonus.
“We know it is a challenging time for many people and to support our colleagues, as well as giving them more time to spend with family over the festive season, we will continue our tradition of an extra week’s salary in December for all colleagues to show our appreciation for their hard work,” she said.
“This comes in addition to an investment of £500,000 in cost-of-living payments made in October to all colleagues, a £500 one-off payment per colleague, providing further financial support in line with increasing costs.
“Rising costs have been a key consideration for all our business decisions this year and we have made sure to put our teams across the UK at the heart of them.”
Other benefits, Ms Blackburn cited include a breakfast club, guaranteed salary increases and profit bonuses.
She also hoped other stores will also take the decision to shut on December 26.
“Closing on Boxing Day is something we know our colleagues value greatly, and we feel passionate about continuing this tradition, and hopefully inspiring other businesses to follow in our footsteps,” she said.
The company has stores in Reading’s The Oracle and Bracknell’s The Lexicon, as well as Basingstoke’s Festival Place.
