Finland Revises Alcohol Law, Paving Way for Sunday Sales and Home Delivery

Finland's parliament has passed a significant revision to its alcohol law, a move that could see the state-owned alcohol retailer, Alko, opening its doors on Sundays. The legislation, approved on Tuesday, allows Alko stores to operate daily between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., including Sundays, though Alko itself will decide which of its branches will extend their hours.

In Helsinki, the Easton shopping center branch, along with those in Kaaressa, Kamppi, and Tripla, are slated to be open on Sundays starting next week. Beyond extended hours, the new law permits the home delivery of alcoholic beverages. Consumers will be able to order drinks from Alko, grocery stores, and restaurants, with these delivery services anticipated to launch by the end of the year. The law also clarifies that alcohol can be ordered from abroad.

Customer reactions to these changes are varied. Timo Kirkkala, shopping at the Easton Alko, expressed enthusiasm for Sunday openings, seeing it as a convenient option for a glass of wine. However, he remained indifferent to home delivery, suggesting it might appeal more to those living in remote areas. Markku Suokas, also visiting the Easton store, believes Sunday hours won't impact his personal drinking habits, reserving alcohol for Fridays or Saturdays due to his work schedule. He found the idea of home delivery unfamiliar, preferring to examine products in-store.

Anna-Liisa Järvo, who shopped at the Kamppi Alko, found the prospect of Sunday hours "okay," reasoning that people will find alcohol regardless. She speculated that Alko employees might appreciate the extra pay for Sunday work. However, she voiced reservations about home delivery, concerned about the potential for underage individuals to order alcohol and stating, "If you can't be bothered to go to the store, go without."