The Local Government Secretary, Robert Jenrick, has announced that Councils will have the ability to allow shops to open around the clock if they choose to.
The decision comes as a way to increase sales during this period, as well as avoid large crowds in shops rushing to get into and around the shop before it closes.
Previously shops had to apply to the council to get their license extended to open past 7pm. Mr Jenrick says he has removed this level of bureaucracy to make it easier for shops to remain open later and get the high street back on track moving forward.
It is unclear how long these measures will last.
Writing in the Daily Telegraph, Robert Jenrick said:
"None of us, I suspect, enjoys navigating the crowds, and none would relish that when social distancing is so important to controlling the virus," Mr Jenrick wrote.
"These changes mean your local shops can open longer, ensuring more pleasant and safer shopping, with less pressure on public transport."
Some shops have already committed to becoming 24-hour businesses such as in the larger shopping centres around the country.
