Migros expands Swiss retail with new Eschen store and 24-hour pilot

Migros Ostschweiz is expanding its retail footprint in Switzerland through new store openings and innovative service models. The company has signed a lease to open a new supermarket in Eschen, scheduled for early summer 2027. The approximately 500-square-meter location at St. Martinsring 3 will offer fresh produce, bakery items, meat, and household goods, supported by 46 parking spaces.

In Herisau, Migros is testing a first-of-its-kind 24-hour supermarket model. The branch operates with staff until 19:00, after which it transitions to an unmanned self-service system, allowing customers to shop around the clock, including on Sundays and holidays. While the concept has reportedly doubled turnover and seen high customer acceptance, it has drawn criticism from local business associations in Appenzell, who are considering political action to address the circumvention of Sunday closing laws.