CHRISTMAS deliveries could be CANCELLED and shops could close early as Omicron continues to wreck havoc for retailers.
Shops have run up against supply chain chaos as Covid has meant deliveries could be delayed, leaving Brits worried about whether presents will arrive on time.
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It comes as Royal Mail warned cards and presents could be delayed as rising numbers of staff self-isolate and call in sick.
It said that 21 delivery offices are facing issues due to staffing issues, including Warrington, Willesden and Chelmsford.
The Trades Union Congress (TUC) said disruption across the board would continue if Covid cases continue to go up.
It told The Telegraph: “There’s a real sense that Covid is taking more of a hold and this could lead to more absences and supply could be disrupted.
“It’s essential that workers know that if they feel unwell they should take time off.”
While campaign group Save The High Street’s founding partner Alex Schlagman said shops could close their doors earlier than usual during the festive season.
“Some are now planning to close early before Christmas,” he told The Telegraph.
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“This new variant is already having an impact and we are now in the most important festive trading period in the history of the high street.”
It comes as Brits are braced for the prospect of “lockdown by stealth” this Christmas.
Families have been advised to only see friends and family where absolutely necessary, leading MPs to accus the PM and scientists of putting households in lockdown in all but name.
It’s not the only Christmas chaos Brits could be facing this year.
Families have been warned of potential toy shortages this Christmas as gaps in shelves have been spotted across the country.
Shoppers have been warned that big brands like Elf on the Shelf, Paw Patrol and Barbie figures are among those likely to be missing from shops.
This is because a huge shortfall of 100,000 drivers, coupled with Covid chaos, means not enough deliveries are being made to meet demand.
I’m wrapping my Christmas presents in Primark bags this year – it saves money and they look great
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