The festive seasoning is ushering in warmth and joy across homes, but for many workers, the opportunity to spend Christmas with family is not guaranteed. Industries like retail and hospitality often operate throughout the holiday, raising ethical questions about work-life balance, employee rights, and cultural sensitivity.
This article delves into the debate surrounding whether stores should close on Christmas Day to allow workers to spend time with their families.
The Case for Closing Stores on Christmas

1. Family Traditions and Social Importance: Christmas is traditionally a time for family gatherings, shared meals, and communal cheer. Having stores close on this day respects the cultural significance of the holiday and acknowledges the importance of family time.
2. Mental Health and Wellbeing: Employees working on Christmas may experience feelings of loneliness or stress due to being away from loved ones. Providing a guaranteed day off can improve the overall mental health and wellbeing of workers.
3. Economic Impact: The argument against holiday closures often cites economic reasons. However, being closed on Christmas may not significantly harm annual revenue, and it could even boost morale and productivity in the following days.
4. Public Relations Benefits: Stores that choose to close on Christmas can garner positive public relations and customer goodwill, as they are seen as valuing their employees’ personal time and well-being.
Arguments for Keeping Stores Open
1. Consumer Demand: Some consumers rely on the availability of stores during holidays for last-minute gifts or essential items, suggesting a need for some level of service on Christmas Day.
2. Diverse Society Needs: Not everyone celebrates Christmas, and for some people, Christmas Day is just another day. Keeping stores open caters to the diverse needs of the community.
3. Economic Benefits for Employees: Working on Christmas often comes with the incentive of extra pay, which can be crucial for employees who may need financial support, particularly in tough economic times.
4. Voluntary Workforce: Some workers may not mind or may even prefer working on Christmas, whether for financial reasons or personal preference, and could volunteer to work, ensuring stores stay open without imposing on those who wish to have the day off.
Conclusion

The debate over whether stores should be closed on Christmas is complex, with compelling arguments on both sides. Job sectors vary in their capabilities to shut down completely without disrupting societal needs. Perhaps the ideal solution lies in a compromise, allowing employees to choose what suits them best, while employers maintain a skeleton crew to meet minimal consumer demand. What remains clear is the need for sensitivity and respect towards the wishes and needs of workers during the festive season, so they too can experience the joy and tranquility the holiday promises.
Credit: Cooktopcove