Germany debates loosening Sunday shop‑opening rules

The German government’s draft legislation will allow bakeries, patisseries and public libraries to stay open longer on Sundays from January 2027, expanding the limited three‑hour limit that currently applies in most states. Trade groups, led by the German Industry and Commerce Chamber (DIHK), argue that the existing shop‑closing law is outdated and call for a constitutional amendment to secure a clear legal basis for permanent Sunday openings.

DIHK president Peter Adrian said the protection of “Sunday as a day of spiritual uplift” in the Basic Law no longer reflects modern shopping habits and urged a two‑thirds majority in Bundestag and Bundesrat to change the constitution. He cited neighbouring countries such as the Netherlands, Czechia and Luxembourg, where Sunday retail is routinely allowed.

A recent INSA poll shows that while a slight majority (44 %) supports longer hours for bakeries and libraries, 52 % of Germans oppose a general liberalisation of Sunday trading. Regional debates are also active: in Baden‑Württemberg the trade association favours more “selling‑open” Sundays rather than a full weekly opening, citing staff shortages, whereas the Ver.di union and church bodies warn that the Sunday should remain a day of rest.

The discussion pits economic arguments – revitalising town centres and competing with online commerce – against cultural and labour‑rights concerns, and any constitutional change would require a broad parliamentary consensus.