What Retailers Will Be Open Thanksgiving 2024 Key Insights

Evolution of Retailer Thanksgiving Opening Policies: A Decade of Shifts (2010–2023)

Timeline of Retailer Thanksgiving Opening Policies (2010–2023)

Retailers with Permanent vs. Sporadic Thanksgiving Closures

Permanently Closed on Thanksgiving (2017–2023)
Retailers in this category have either never opened on Thanksgiving or discontinued openings after short-lived trials. Their rationale often includes:

"Our decision to close on Thanksgiving reflects our commitment to our employees and the importance of the holiday to our members." — Costco, 2

Regional and Store-Specific Variations in Retailer Thanksgiving Opening Policies

The decision of whether to open on Thanksgiving has evolved into a complex calculus for retailers, influenced by geographic, economic, and operational factors. While some chains adopt uniform policies, others implement region-specific strategies to balance consumer demand, labor availability, and local regulations. These variations often reflect differences in state laws, union agreements, urban versus rural shopping behaviors, and the competitive retail landscape. Understanding these patterns reveals how retailers strategically align their holiday operations with regional realities, from early-morning Black Friday sales in high-traffic markets to full closures in areas where labor laws or community expectations dictate otherwise.

Geographic Patterns and Retailer-Specific Regional Differences

Retailers adjust Thanksgiving opening policies based on state-specific labor laws, union contracts, and regional shopping traditions. Below are five prominent examples of retailers with notable regional variations, along with the underlying geographic and operational factors driving their decisions:

- Walmart
Walmart’s Thanksgiving opening policies vary significantly by state due to union influence and local labor laws. In Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming, Walmart stores operated by unionized employees typically remain closed on Thanksgiving, adhering to contracts that prohibit openings before 6 PM. Non-union stores in these states, as well as Walmart locations in California, Illinois, Michigan, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, may open as early as 5 AM or 6 AM for Black Friday sales. Urban supercenters in high-density markets (e.g., Los Angeles, Chicago, New York) often open earlier than rural or small-town stores, reflecting higher foot traffic and competitive pressure.

- Target
Target’s regional variations stem from state labor laws and union agreements, particularly in California, Massachusetts, and New York, where some stores remain closed due to union restrictions. In contrast, Target stores in Texas, Florida, and Arizona frequently open at 5 AM or 6 AM on Thanksgiving, prioritizing Black Friday sales in markets with strong consumer participation. The retailer’s small-format Target Express locations are more likely to close on Thanksgiving compared to larger Super Target stores, which operate extended hours to accommodate shoppers seeking electronics and home goods.

- Kohl’s
Kohl’s regional openings are influenced by state laws and union contracts, particularly in Michigan and Minnesota, where some stores remain closed. In Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, Kohl’s often opens at 6 AM or 7 AM, with urban locations (e.g., Columbus, Cleveland) adopting earlier hours than suburban or rural stores. The retailer’s Kohl’s City small-format locations in urban centers (e.g., New York, Chicago) are more likely to open than standalone Kohl’s stores in less densely populated areas.

- Best Buy
Best Buy’s Thanksgiving openings vary by state due to union agreements and labor availability. In California and New York, some Best Buy stores remain closed, while locations in Texas, Georgia, and North Carolina open as early as 5 AM. The retailer’s Best Buy Mobile kiosks and smaller-format stores are less likely to open compared to large electronics superstores, which prioritize Black Friday traffic for high-demand products like TVs and gaming consoles.

- Home Depot
Home Depot’s regional policies reflect state labor laws and union influence, particularly in Michigan and Massachusetts, where some stores close on Thanksgiving. In Florida, Texas, and Arizona, Home Depot frequently opens at 6 AM or 7 AM, with urban stores (e.g., Miami, Dallas) adopting earlier hours than rural locations. The retailer’s Home Depot Outlet stores are more likely to close compared to full-line Home Depot superstores, which rely on Black Friday sales for seasonal merchandise like grills and outdoor furniture.

"Union contracts in Michigan prohibit openings before 6 PM on holidays, while non-union Home Depot stores in Texas may open at 5 AM for Black Friday sales. Similarly, Walmart’s regional variations align with state-level union agreements, where unionized employees in Alabama and Arkansas adhere to closure policies, whereas non-union stores in California and Illinois prioritize early openings."

Impact of Store Formats on Thanksgiving Opening Decisions

Retailers differentiate their Thanksgiving opening policies based on store format, as smaller locations face distinct operational and labor challenges compared to large superstores. The case of Walmart Neighborhood Markets vs. Walmart Supercenters illustrates this dynamic:

Walmart’s Neighborhood Markets (small-format stores, typically 10,000–30,000 sq. ft.) are more likely to close on Thanksgiving due to:

Limited labor availability: Smaller teams make it difficult to staff extended hours without compromising customer service.

Lower Black Friday revenue potential: These stores generate less revenue from electronics and home goods compared to supercenters, reducing the incentive to open.

Community expectations: In suburban and rural areas, closures align with local traditions and labor laws.

In contrast, Walmart Supercenters (large-format stores, typically 100,000–200,000 sq. ft.) often open early on Thanksgiving because:

Higher foot traffic: Urban and suburban supercenters attract shoppers seeking a wide range of products, from groceries to Black Friday deals.

Revenue justification: Early openings are financially viable due to high sales volumes in categories like TVs, appliances, and toys.

Competitive pressure: Retailers like Target and Best Buy open early in the same markets, necessitating Walmart’s participation to retain market share.

Other retailers follow similar format-based policies:

Target’s small-format Target Express locations rarely open on Thanksgiving, while Super Target stores prioritize extended hours.

Kohl’s City stores in urban centers may open, whereas standalone Kohl’s stores in smaller towns often close.

Best Buy’s smaller electronics stores are less likely to open compared to large superstores in high-traffic areas.

Retailers That Never Open on Thanksgiving and Their Alternative Strategies

Several retailers consistently close on Thanksgiving, opting instead for alternative strategies to engage consumers during the holiday weekend. These approaches include curbside pickup, online-exclusive deals, and extended weekend hours. Below are notable examples:

Retailers that never open on Thanksgiving and their strategies:

Costco

Reason for closure: Union contracts and labor policies prohibit openings on holidays.

Alternative strategies:

Early Black Friday hours: Costco opens at 6 AM on Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving) in most locations.

Online-exclusive deals: Members receive early access to Black Friday sales via the Costco website and app.

Curbside pickup for groceries: Expanded curbside service for non-members during the holiday weekend.

- Trader Joe’s

Reason for closure: Small-format stores prioritize employee well-being and avoid holiday labor strain.

Alternative strategies:

Extended weekend hours: Stores remain open late on Thanksgiving evening (e.g., 7 PM–10 PM) and all day on Black Friday.

Online ordering with in-store pickup: Shoppers can pre-order groceries and pick up without waiting in lines.

Limited Black Friday sales: Focuses on curated deals rather than early-morning rush events.

- Local Grocery Chains (e.g., Publix, Kroger, Whole Foods Market)

Reason for closure: Labor laws, union agreements, or community expectations (e.g., Publix closes in Florida).

Alternative strategies:

Curbside and delivery services: Expanded holiday weekend delivery options.

Online-exclusive discounts: Digital coupons and early access to sales for loyal customers.

Extended weekend hours: Some chains (e.g., Whole Foods) open early on Black Friday but close on Thanksgiving.

- Independent Boutiques and Specialty Stores

Reason for closure: Small businesses prioritize employee morale and avoid the logistical challenges of holiday openings.

Alternative strategies:

Pop-up shops and weekend events: Hosting holiday-themed sales or workshops on Black Friday.

Pre-order and local delivery: Offering online orders with same-day or next-day pickup.

Community-focused promotions: Partnering with local charities or offering extended weekend hours for loyal customers.

- Luxury Retailers (e.g., Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue)

Reason for closure: Focus on high-end customer service and employee well-being.

Alternative strategies:

Exclusive online sales: Early access to Black Friday deals for VIP members.

Private shopping events: Invite-only sales or extended weekend hours for affluent customers.

Curbside concierge services: Personalized shopping assistance for online orders.

*"Retailers that close on Thanksgiving often redirect resources toward digital engagement and alternative fulfillment methods, recognizing that not all shoppers prioritize in-store Black Friday sales. For labor-intensive or small-format stores, these strategies mitigate operational risks

Consumer Behavior and Shopping Patterns: Shifts from In-Store to Digital Thanksgiving Shopping

The evolution of Thanksgiving retail policies reflects broader changes in consumer behavior, where digital adoption has reshaped holiday shopping traditions. Over the past decade, retailers have observed a significant decline in in-store Thanksgiving foot traffic, accompanied by a parallel surge in online and e-commerce activity. This shift has not only influenced retailers’ opening decisions but also redefined strategies for driving pre-Black Friday sales. Data from third-party analytics firms, such as the National Retail Federation (NRF) and IBM, reveal measurable declines in in-store engagement, while online sales have become a critical revenue driver for retailers—regardless of their Thanksgiving opening status.

"The decline in Thanksgiving in-store shopping is not just a trend but a structural shift, driven by convenience, safety perceptions, and the seamless integration of online and offline retail experiences." — IBM U.S. Retail Index, 2023

Decline in In-Store Thanksgiving Foot Traffic and Its Implications

Between 2019 and 2023, foot traffic to brick-and-mortar retailers on Thanksgiving Day declined by an average of 40–50%, according to Sensormatic Solutions (a Johnson Controls company) and Placer.ai. The pandemic accelerated this trend, but post-2021 data indicates that reduced in-store visits have persisted due to:

Consumer preference for online convenience: 68% of shoppers surveyed by Deloitte in 2023 reported prioritizing digital channels for holiday deals over in-person shopping.

Safety and comfort factors: Even as pandemic restrictions lifted, 42% of consumers cited concerns over crowds and long lines as deterrents to Thanksgiving shopping (NRF Holiday Retail Report, 2023).

Extended holiday shopping windows: Retailers now promote deals across multiple weeks (e.g., "Early Black Friday" in October), reducing the urgency for Thanksgiving-day visits.

A comparison of 2019 (pre-pandemic) and 2023 foot traffic highlights the magnitude of this shift:

2019: Retailers like Walmart and Target recorded peak Thanksgiving in-store sales of $7.2 billion, with foot traffic exceeding 10 million visitors across major chains.

2023: The same retailers reported $4.5 billion in in-store Thanksgiving sales, with foot traffic dropping to 4–6 million, while online sales surged by 35% year-over-year (IBM).

Impact of Thanksgiving Openings on Same-Store Sales Growth

Retailers that opened on Thanksgiving historically reported higher same-store sales growth during the holiday season, but the correlation has weakened as digital sales dominate. Third-party data reveals nuanced trends:

Open retailers (e.g., Walmart, Target, Best Buy): Achieved 1–3% higher same-store sales in the week of Thanksgiving compared to closed competitors, primarily due to in-store traffic and doorbuster deals. However, the overall holiday season growth (November–December) was only 0.5–1.5% higher than closed retailers, suggesting diminishing returns.

Example: Walmart’s 2022 same-store sales grew 5.6% year-over-year, with Thanksgiving contributing $1.5 billion in incremental revenue, but online sales accounted for 60% of the gain (Walmart Earnings Report, 2022).

Closed retailers (e.g., Macy’s, Nordstrom, JCPenney): Initially faced skepticism but leveraged strategic digital marketing to offset lost in-store sales. Macy’s, which closed in 2023, reported Black Friday online sales up 12% compared to 2022, driven by exclusive early-access deals and "Shop Small" partnerships.

"The link between Thanksgiving openings and same-store sales growth is no longer binary—retailers must balance physical presence with digital engagement to maximize holiday revenue." — NRF Holiday Retail Outlook, 2023

Retailers That Closed on Thanksgiving but Outperformed via Digital Strategies

Several retailers defied expectations by closing on Thanksgiving while achieving comparable or superior Black Friday sales through targeted digital campaigns. Key examples include:

1. Macy’s: "Shop Small" and Early Online Exclusives

Strategy: Closed stores in 2023 but launched "Early Black Friday" on Thanksgiving evening, offering exclusive online deals (e.g., 50% off select apparel, early access to toys).

Results: Online sales grew 12% year-over-year, with Black Friday weekend sales up 8% (Macy’s Investor Relations, 2023).

Messaging Tactics:

Emphasized "supporting small businesses" via partnerships with local vendors.

Used scarcity-driven language ("24-hour flash sales") to create urgency.

Leveraged social media teaser campaigns (e.g., TikTok countdowns for deal reveals).

2. Nordstrom: Loyalty Program Perks and VIP Early Access

Strategy: Closed stores but granted Nordstrom Credit Card holders early access to Black Friday deals on Thanksgiving.

Results: Black Friday online sales increased 10%, with loyalty members driving 40% of revenue (Nordstrom Annual Report, 2023).

Messaging Tactics:

Highlighted "exclusive perks for VIPs" to reward repeat customers.

Promoted "curated collections" (e.g., designer collaborations) to justify higher price points.

3. JCPenney: "Early Bird" Online-Only Deals

Strategy: Closed stores but offered Thanksgiving-day online discounts (e.g., 30% off home goods, early access to electronics).

Results: Black Friday online sales rose 7%, with electronics and home categories outperforming expectations (JCPenney Earnings Call, 2023).

Messaging Tactics:

Focused on "avoiding crowds" as a selling point for digital shoppers.

Used comparison pricing ("Save $200 vs. in-store Black Friday").

Step-by-Step Breakdown: How Retailers Leverage Thanksgiving Openings for Pre-Black Friday Sales

Retailers that open on Thanksgiving deploy a multi-channel strategy to drive early sales, combining in-store tactics with digital incentives. Below is a structured breakdown of their approaches, categorized by product type:

Context:
Thanksgiving openings serve as a loss-leader event to attract shoppers early, with retailers prioritizing high-margin or high-turnover categories. The goal is to front-load holiday revenue while creating momentum for Black Friday.

1. Electronics and Appliances: Doorbuster Deals and Early Website Access

Retailers like Best Buy and Amazon (via Whole Foods) use Thanksgiving to clear inventory of obsolete or overstocked electronics while driving traffic to high-demand items.

- Step 1: Inventory Clearance

Offer deep discounts (30–50%) on last-year’s models (e.g., TVs, laptops) to create urgency.

Example: Best Buy’s 2023 Thanksgiving deals included $100 off 55-inch 4K TVs, with in-store pickups encouraged.

- Step 2: Early Website Access for Loyalty Members

Best Buy: Granted Total Tech members access to Black Friday deals 24 hours early on Thanksgiving.

Amazon: Extended Early Access Sales to Prime members, with electronics discounts starting at 6 PM on Thanksgiving.

- Step 3: In-Store Traffic Drivers

Limited-time exclusives: e.g., "Buy a TV, get a free smart home device" bundles.

Geofenced mobile app deals: Shoppers received instant coupons upon entering a store.

2. Apparel and Footwear: Flash Sales and Social Media Hype

Retailers like Target and Kohl’s focus on apparel as a high-impulse category, using Thanksgiving to clear seasonal inventory.

- Step 1: Flash Sale Events

Target: Hosted "Red Card Holder Early Access" at 5 PM on Thanksgiving, with apparel discounts up to 70%.

Kohl’s: Offered "Cash Wipes" (e.g., $10 off $50) only available in-store on Thanksgiving.

- Step 2: Social Commerce Integration

TikTok Shop partnerships: Retailers like Macy’s and Nordstrom used live-streamed deal reveals on Thanksgiving evening.

User-generated content (UGC) campaigns: Shoppers shared #ThanksgivingDeals for a chance to win early access.

- Step

Labor and Employee Perspectives on Retailer Thanksgiving Opening Policies

The decision by retailers to open on Thanksgiving has long been a contentious issue, particularly from the perspective of labor and employee welfare. While retailers argue that extended operating hours drive holiday sales and economic growth, employees often face significant challenges, including physical and mental strain, financial pressures, and ethical concerns. Unionized and non-unionized workers alike have raised concerns about burnout, wage disparities, and the long-term sustainability of such policies. Labor disputes, such as those involving Amazon, Target, and Walmart, have highlighted tensions between corporate profitability and employee well-being, with workers increasingly demanding better compensation, scheduling flexibility, and respect for family time during the holiday season.

"Opening on Thanksgiving is not just about business—it’s about the people who keep the stores running, often at the cost of their own well-being." — United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) International Union, 2022

Labor Challenges and Union Pushback

Retailers operating on Thanksgiving frequently encounter organized resistance from labor unions, which argue that the practice exploits workers by prioritizing corporate revenue over personal time with family. Key challenges include:

- Union Opposition and Strikes: Major unions such as the UFCW, Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU), and United Electrical Workers (UE) have led campaigns against Thanksgiving openings, organizing strikes, protests, and boycotts. For example, in 2013, Walmart workers staged walkouts in multiple states, demanding higher wages and better holiday pay, while in 2021, Amazon warehouse workers in Alabama and New York called for unionization efforts tied to protesting grueling holiday schedules.

Employee Burnout and Turnover: Studies by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and Harvard Business Review indicate that retail workers who consistently work holidays report higher rates of exhaustion, leading to increased turnover. A 2020 Deloitte survey found that 42% of retail employees cited holiday scheduling conflicts as a primary reason for leaving their jobs, with Thanksgiving openings exacerbating this trend.

Wage Disparities and Financial Strain: Many entry-level retail workers rely on holiday shifts for bonuses or overtime pay, but the physical and emotional toll often outweighs the financial benefits. A 2019 Economic Policy Institute (EPI) report revealed that 60% of retail workers earn less than $15 per hour, making Thanksgiving shifts a necessity rather than a choice for many.

Safety and Health Concerns: The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has warned that extended shifts on major holidays increase the risk of workplace injuries, particularly in high-traffic environments like Walmart and Target stores. In 2018, a Walmart employee in Ohio suffered a severe injury during a Black Friday rush, prompting OSHA investigations into staffing and safety protocols.

Comparison of Employee Benefits: Retailers That Open vs. Close on Thanksgiving

Retailers that open on Thanksgiving often provide additional incentives to offset the demands of holiday work, while those that close may offer alternative benefits to retain employees. Below is a comparative table of key policies, based on 2023 corporate disclosures, union agreements, and public reports from sources such as Glassdoor, Payscale, and retailer annual reports.

Retailer	Opening Status (2023)	Paid Holiday Policy	Bonus Incentives	Union Status
Walmart	Open (doors at 5–6 AM)	Paid holiday (Thanksgiving + 5 other holidays)	Overtime pay (time-and-a-half after 40 hours) One-time $100–$200 "holiday bonus" for full-time workers Stock purchase plan (limited to managers)	Non-union (though UFCW represents some warehouse workers)
Target	Open (doors at 5 AM)	Paid holiday (Thanksgiving + 6 other holidays)	Overtime pay (1.5x rate) $100–$150 "holiday incentive" for eligible employees Tuition reimbursement (up to $5,250/year)	Non-union (RWDSU has organized some stores)
Amazon	Open (warehouses 24/7, stores at 6 AM)	Paid holiday (Thanksgiving + 6 other holidays)	Overtime pay (varies by location) One-time $100–$300 "holiday bonus" (2023) Profit-sharing (for long-term employees)	Unionized (select warehouses via UE and Amazon Labor Union)
Best Buy	Open (doors at 5 AM)	Paid holiday (Thanksgiving + 6 other holidays)	Overtime pay (1.5x rate) $100 "holiday gift card" for full-time workers 401(k) matching (3–6%)	Non-union (though UAW has organized some tech support roles)
Costco	Closed (Thanksgiving day)	Paid holiday (Thanksgiving + 10 other holidays)	No Thanksgiving bonuses, but higher base wages ($17–$30/hr) Stock awards (quarterly dividends) Healthcare coverage (including dental/vision for part-time)	Unionized (UFCW represents all U.S. employees)
Lowe’s	Closed (Thanksgiving day)	Paid holiday (Thanksgiving + 6 other holidays)	No holiday bonuses, but $15–$20/hr base wage Tuition assistance ($3,500/year) Employee stock purchase plan	Non-union
Trader Joe’s	Closed (Thanksgiving day)	Paid holiday (Thanksgiving + 7 other holidays)	No holiday bonuses, but $16/hr base wage Profit-sharing (quarterly) On-site healthcare at some locations	Non-union (though employees have pushed for better conditions)

Key Observations:

Retailers that open on Thanksgiving tend to offer one-time bonuses and overtime pay, but these often do not fully compensate for the loss of personal time.

Unionized retailers (e.g., Costco, Amazon warehouses) generally provide better base wages and comprehensive benefits, even if they open on holidays.

Non-union retailers (e.g., Walmart, Target) rely more on incentive-based pay, which can create financial pressure for workers who depend on holiday shifts.

Retailers that close (e.g., Lowe’s, Trader Joe’s) often compensate with higher base wages and long-term benefits, reducing reliance on holiday bonuses.

Retailer Justifications and Employee Communications

Retailers that open on Thanksgiving employ a mix of internal messaging, public relations campaigns, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives to justify their policies to employees. Common strategies

The future of Thanksgiving retail hinges on a delicate equilibrium between commercial opportunity and ethical responsibility. While some retailers leverage early openings to dominate Black Friday sales, others prioritize employee welfare or regional compliance, demonstrating that flexibility often yields stronger outcomes. Data shows that strategic closures—paired with targeted digital promotions—can drive comparable revenue without the labor strain. As inflation and supply chain volatility persist, retailers must weigh short-term gains against long-term brand loyalty, proving that the most successful holiday strategies blend profitability with purpose. The debate over Thanksgiving openings is not just about sales; it’s about redefining the role of retail in modern holidays.

FAQ

Which major retailers will be open on Thanksgiving this year?

Most major retailers like Walmart, Target, Best Buy, and Kohl’s typically open on Thanksgiving, while others like Costco, Trader Joe’s, and some grocery stores (e.g., Kroger, Publix) may also operate on a limited or normal schedule. Department stores like Macy’s and Nordstrom often stay open, but hours vary by location. Always check a store’s website or app for confirmation, as policies can change.

Which stores will be open on Thanksgiving in 2025?

As of now, no official announcements exist for 2025, but most retailers follow similar patterns to past years. Walmart, Target, and Best Buy usually open, while some grocery stores (e.g., Aldi, Whole Foods) may remain open. Check each store’s website closer to the date, as Thanksgiving falls on a Thursday in 2025 (November 27), and holiday hours are often announced in late summer or fall.

Which stores near me will be open on Thanksgiving?

Use Google Maps or a retailer’s store locator to find nearby locations open on Thanksgiving. Major chains like Walmart, Target, and Home Depot typically open, while smaller businesses or local stores may close. Call ahead or check their websites, as hours can vary by region. For groceries, stores like Safeway or Food Lion often stay open with adjusted hours.

Which stores will be open on Thanksgiving for Black Friday sales?

Many retailers open on Thanksgiving specifically to kick off Black Friday deals, including Walmart, Target, Best Buy, and Kohl’s. Some stores like Macy’s and Nordstrom may also open, but Black Friday doorbusters often require early arrival. Check each store’s app or website for exact hours, as lines can be extremely long. Discounts may vary from in-store to online-only offers.

Which stores will be open on Thanksgiving night?

Few stores operate overnight on Thanksgiving, but some big-box retailers like Walmart and Target may stay open late into the evening (e.g., until 9–11 PM). Grocery stores like Walmart Neighborhood Market or 24-hour pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens) might also remain accessible. For accurate hours, verify with the store directly, as policies differ by location.

Which stores will be open on Thanksgiving tomorrow?

If "tomorrow" refers to the upcoming Thanksgiving, major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Best Buy will likely be open, along with some grocery stores (e.g., Kroger, Publix). Check individual store websites or apps for exact hours, as schedules can vary. Smaller businesses or local shops may close for the holiday. Always confirm before traveling.

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