Walmart to Close Early on Christmas Eve

This year, holiday cheer will come a little earlier for Walmart associates, since the Bentonville, Ark.-based mega retailer has decided to close two hours before its usual Christmas Eve closing time in recent years.

“Our associates work hard all year to make this holiday season special for our customers, and we truly appreciate what they do every day,” said Judith McKenna, EVP and COO, Walmart U.S. “We also know that getting home on Christmas Eve to spend time with families is important. That’s why this year we’ll be closing at 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve.”

Among the other major big-box retailers, Issaquah, Wash.-based Costco will close at 5 p.m. on Christmas Eve and 6 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, while Westborough, Mass.-based BJ’s Wholesale Club will close at 6 p.m. on both days. By contrast, associates at Kmart will work extended hours on Christmas Eve, and most Target stores are adhering to their usual schedules..

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. operates 11,462 stores under 71 banners in 28 countries, and e-commerce websites in 11 countries.