In Demand This May Bank Holiday

There’s something about the May Spring Bank Holiday, the whispers of long awaited plans, the hope of sunshine, and that collective exhale as the country takes a moment to indulge. But while customers are clocking off, for retailers, it’s game time. And with the last Monday in May (that’s the 26th in 2025) just around the corner, it’s time to ask: is your shop ready to seize the moment?

Because make no mistake, this is a golden window, bursting with potential to boost sales, clear seasonal stock, and give your space a timely refresh. Shoppers are in the mood to spend, and if you plan it right, your shop could be their first stop.

Why the May Bank Holiday is a Big Deal

Let’s set the scene with some telling numbers.

In early May 2023, UK retail sales saw a 5.9% year-on-year boost. Why? Back-to-back bank holidays gave shoppers more time—and more reason—to browse, buy, and indulge. With 64% of British workers planning time off around the May holidays, that uplift wasn’t a fluke. It was strategy-meets-opportunity in action.

And retailers are catching on. Nearly half plan special deals or discounts specifically for this period. Themed promotions, exclusive bundles, even cheeky flash sales—anything to catch the attention of increased footfall and online activity.

What Shoppers Are Looking For

The Spring Bank Holiday marks the start of summer mindsets, entertaining, relaxing, and refreshing their spaces. Here’s what’s in demand:

Garden & Outdoor Furniture

Shoppers are turning gardens into living rooms.

• Lounge sets, bistro sets, corner sofas, and daybeds are popular for both hosting and relaxing.

• Hanging chairs and loungers add comfort and visual appeal.

Dining & Entertaining

Gatherings are back on the agenda.

• Dining tables, benches, and stylish chairs suit both indoor and outdoor hosting.

• Dinnerware, picnic-ready sets, and glassware are perfect for alfresco meals and gifting.

Home Décor & Accessories

It’s all about easy updates.

• Cushions, throws, and seat pads bring colour and comfort.

• Planters, vases, and floral accents refresh interiors.

• String lights and lanterns set the scene for day-to-night hosting.

Gift-Ready Picks

Gifting is top of mind for visits and get-togethers.

• Candles, photo frames, and unique accessories make thoughtful presents.

• Gift-wrapping stations or “grab-and-go” gift zones can boost last-minute sales.

Weather-Responsive Stock

Be ready to flex with the forecast.

• Sunny? Focus on outdoor furniture, picnicware, and garden games.

• Rainy? Highlight cosy throws, indoor games, and mood lighting.

The Power of Presentation

How your shop looks and feels over the Bank Holiday weekend matters. Great merchandising can turn casual browsers into loyal customers and generate those all-important impulse buys.

Try this:

• Wooden crates & wicker baskets for rustic, summery displays

• Fresh flowers or a flower wall to add colour (and Instagram appeal)

• Upside-down umbrellas to playfully nod to Britain’s unpredictable weather

• Chalkboard signs for handwritten charm and flexible messaging

• Green accents & plants to invite a sense of calm and freshness

• Window to wall cohesion: keep your theme consistent throughout the store

Done right, your displays won’t just reflect the season—they’ll sell the season.

Unique Ways to Spotlight Specific Stock

Now’s the time to get strategic. What do you really want to sell? Use the weekend as your platform.

• Themed Bundles
  Group products around how people spend the long weekend—barbecue kits, garden starter packs, even staycation essentials.

• Interactive Events
  Gardening demos, BBQ tips, even QR code treasure hunts. When customers engage, they’re more likely to spend.

• Early Bird & VIP Offers
  Create exclusivity. Offer loyalty customers special access or early bird discounts that reward them for shopping first.

• Visual Storytelling
  Highlight key stock with props, signage, and creative merchandising that ties back to a spring or bank holiday theme.

• Digital Push
  Use email and social media to share curated product picks. Even better? Host a contest or get your followers to vote on their favourite Bank Holiday item.

• Pop-Ups & Outdoor Displays
  If you’ve got the space, take it outside. Pop-up stalls or small community tie-ins can boost visibility and footfall.

• Personalisation & Purpose
  Add a thoughtful touch—monogramming, eco-labelling, or highlighting local makers (without saying “makers”) to connect with conscious consumers.

• Last-Minute Lifelines
  Promote quick delivery or click-and-collect options for late shoppers. Last-minute convenience can be a powerful closer.

Your Next Move This Bank Holiday

Use this May Spring Bank Holiday as a retail moment that rewards preparation, creativity, and understanding what your customers need, even before they do.

Whether it’s through a window display that stops people in their tracks, or a time-limited offer that nudges someone to buy now instead of later, every decision you make adds up.

So as the long weekend approaches, ask yourself: is your shop ready not just to open, but to shine?