Anew survey found that over a quarter of workers say that their workplaces will shut down during the holidays, with many workers saying that they will take time off even if their employer is open. The numbers are higher than in 2007, when the same poll was given. For some employers, shutting down for the week between Christmas and New Year's made economic sense. Some analysts say that cuts in staff and pay increases may encourage employees to take time off that they would not have otherwise.
See "More workers taking time off at holidays: survey", Chris Michaud, Chicago Tribune, December 17, 2012