Argos are also supporting this decision.

A spokesperson for the company reportedly said that they would also close on Boxing Day “in recognition of the extraordinary efforts of colleagues throughout a challenging 18 months”.

Simon Roberts, Sainsbury’s Chief Executive, said: “Christmas is a really special time for so many, but because of lockdown restrictions last year, lots of us weren’t able to celebrate in the way we wanted.

“In recognition of this and to say a massive thank you to all our colleagues for everything they have done during the last challenging year, we will be closing all of our supermarkets, convenience stores and petrol filling stations, as well as Argos and Habitat stores, this Boxing Day.