Gail’s bakery chain has confirmed that ten of its stores will be open on Christmas Day. They will also be offering free mince pies to customers who visit these locations on December 25. All Gail’s bakeries will operate as usual on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day.
In a post on Instagram, Gail’s announced the Christmas Day openings, inviting people to enjoy a coffee, buy some bread, or simply find a friendly face on the quiet morning. Visitors will receive a complimentary mince pie as a gesture of gratitude.
Despite facing pre-tax losses of £7.8 million due to business expenses and staff costs from store openings, Gail’s reported a sales increase to £278 million in the year ending February 2025. The bakery chain plans to open 40 new stores in England by February 2026, following the successful launch of 36 cafes in the previous financial year.
With over 4,000 employees, Gail’s has expanded its workforce by about 500 individuals through recruitment efforts. The company’s wholesale division supplies baked goods to supermarkets like Waitrose and Ocado. Gail’s sourdough loaves start at around £4.80, with the retail segment being highlighted as the most profitable sector of the business.
A company spokesperson expressed satisfaction with the growth, attributing it to rising demand for high-quality, nutritious food and community support. They emphasized their commitment to providing innovative food in welcoming neighborhood bakeries to sustain growth.