Vorarlberg plans more Sunday openings; union calls it 'dam break'

The Austrian state of Vorarlberg is planning to expand Sunday shopping options, proposing a new ordinance that would permit small grocery stores to open between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Sundays and public holidays. This initiative is primarily aimed at enhancing local supply in rural areas. The ordinance is scheduled for a government decision on Tuesday, with specific restrictions in place.

According to state governor Markus Wallner and economics minister Marco Tittler, the measure seeks to "strengthen the local food supply where it is most needed." The regulation would apply to approximately 65 rural municipalities or their districts, specifically to food stores up to 400 square meters that primarily sell groceries. Crucially, only stores operated by the owners themselves, without hired staff, would be eligible for Sunday openings.

“

strengthen the local food supply where it is most needed

However, the plan has drawn sharp criticism from the trade union ÖGB Vorarlberg. Regional chairman Reinhard Stemmer denounced the proposal as a "dangerous dam break and a clear attack on the work-free Sunday." While acknowledging that the ban on employee work on Sundays and holidays would remain, the union fears this move opens the door to further deregulation. The debate over Sunday shopping is a recurring issue in Austria, with churches and labor representatives opposing broader openings, while liberal parties like the NEOS advocate for more flexibility.

“

dangerous dam break and a clear attack on the work-free Sunday