Germany moves to relax Sunday retail closure law

The German government, led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, plans to amend the long‑standing "Sonntagsruhe" rule that bans most retail opening on Sundays. The proposal, part of a broader reform package, would permit shops to open on Sundays from January 2027, giving each operator the choice to do so rather than imposing a mandatory schedule.

Supporters argue that the current law, rooted in the 1919 constitution, hinders small retailers who report up to 40 % of sales on Sundays and face high unemployment and store closures. Trade and e‑commerce associations describe the rule as an outdated relic that does not reflect 24‑hour online competition. Unions and many workers oppose the change, citing protection of family time and labour rights. A recent YouGov poll shows 43 % of Germans now favour more flexible Sunday hours, up from 34 % a year earlier.