German retail groups call for flexible Sunday shopping hours

Retail associations in Germany are pushing for relaxed regulations on Sunday shopping, arguing that rigid rules no longer align with modern consumer needs and lifestyles. The E-Commerce Association (Bevh) and the German Retail Association (HDE) both support greater flexibility, suggesting that consumers should be empowered to decide when and how they shop.

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Rigid regulations no longer fit the needs and reality of life. Consumers must be able to decide for themselves when and how they shop.

"Rigid regulations no longer fit the needs and reality of life. Consumers must be able to decide for themselves when and how they shop," stated Alien Mulyk, CEO of the Bevh. She added that while some argue online retailers benefit from current restrictions, the association does not anticipate negative consequences from potential changes. The HDE echoed this sentiment, with CEO Stefan Genth noting that Sunday has evolved into a primary leisure day for many, with entertainment and dining venues typically open, while retail often remains closed.

"Sunday has changed. For many people, it is a day of leisure, on which gastronomy, cultural and leisure facilities are naturally open," Genth said. He pointed out that online retailers can already operate on Sundays, suggesting local retailers should also have occasional opportunities. Genth also highlighted that many EU countries, including traditionally Christian nations like Italy and France, have more flexible Sunday opening laws.

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Sunday has changed. For many people, it is a day of leisure, on which gastronomy, cultural and leisure facilities are naturally open.

Conversely, the trade union Verdi strongly opposes loosening Sunday opening rules. Silke Zimmer, a board member responsible for retail, stressed that Sunday is the only reliably predictable day off for workers, providing essential time for physical and mental recuperation in a demanding industry. Public opinion on the matter is divided, with a recent YouGov poll indicating 43% favor more frequent Sunday openings, while 50% oppose them.

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The Sunday is the only reliably predictable day off for workers, on which there is time for physical and mental relief in this demanding job.