Walmart announces closure of all stores for a full day

It’s official: Walmart has announced that all of its stores will be closed for a full 24 hours Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2024. This decision will impact more than 4,000 Walmart locations across the United States. If you’re planning on doing any last-minute shopping or starting your holiday shopping early, you’ll need to adjust your schedule as all Walmart stores will be closed all day.

Why does Walmart close on Thanksgiving?

Walmart’s decision to close on Thanksgiving has become an issue annual tradition since 2020. Before that, Walmart stores were typically open on Thanksgiving to start their Black Friday sales earlier. However, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Walmart decided to give its employees a much-needed break and a chance to spend the holidays with their families. The company has continued this policy since then, recognizing the importance of employee well-being.

John Furnerthe CEO of Walmart US, explained that this decision was based on a suggestion from a Walmart worker in Texas. Since then the company has seen overwhelming support at the end of Thanksgiving. “We want you to enjoy the day at home with your loved ones,” Furner said in a 2020 interview with USA Today.

While Walmart stores will remain closed on Thanksgiving, the company has big plans for Black Friday. Walmarts Black Friday deals begins as soon as stores reopen with massive discounts on electronics, toys, home goods and more. Shoppers can expect long lines and limited-time offers on the most popular items. Therefore, it’s important to plan ahead if you hope to snag some of the best deals.

What other stores will be closed on Thanksgiving?

Walmart isn’t the only retailer closing its doors on Thanksgiving Day. Several other major chains have also adopted this practice in recent years. If you’re planning on shopping on Thanksgiving, here’s a quick look at the retailers that are closed November 28, 2024:

• Goal: Like Walmart, Target will remain closed throughout Thanksgiving. Shops will reopen earlier on Black Friday.
• Costco: Known for its commitment to giving employees time off during the holidays, Costco will be closed on Thanksgiving.
• Best buy: Shoppers looking to score deals on electronics will have to wait until Black Friday as Best Buy will be closed on Thanksgiving.
• Home Depot And Lowes: Both hardware store giants are closed on this day.
• BJ’s Wholesale Club: Another major membership-based retailer, BJ’s, will not open on Thanksgiving.

Where can you shop on Thanksgiving?

If you need groceries or other essentials on Thanksgiving Day, some stores will still be open, but with limited opening hours. Here are some stores where you can shop on Thanksgiving:

• Kroger: Many Kroger locations will be open, but with reduced hours. This is a good option if you need to grab a few last minute ingredients for your Thanksgiving dinner.
• Ralph’s: Like Kroger, Ralphs stores will be open with modified hours, typically 6 a.m. to 10 p.m
• Albertsons: Select Albertsons locations are open from 6 a.m. to at least 3 p.m., but hours may vary by location.
• Feed lion: While most locations are open, some may close early. Therefore, it is a good idea to check with your local store beforehand.
• Whole Foods: If you need to grab something for your Thanksgiving feast, Whole Foods is open, but hours vary by location.

As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s a good idea Plan ahead and make sure you have everything you need before the vacation comes. With Walmart and many other major retailers closing their doors on this day, it’s important to plan your shopping in advance.

Whether you’re looking forward to a cozy day at home with the family or gearing up for Black Friday deals, Walmart’s Thanksgiving closure offers both employees and shoppers a chance to relax before the holiday shopping season gets into full swing. Happy Thanksgiving and happy shopping!