Czech Republic retail holiday closure regulations

Retail operations in the Czech Republic are subject to mandatory closures on public holidays. Specifically, on October 28, 2026, large retail stores and shopping centers must close to observe the founding of the independent Czechoslovak state.

While previous reports indicated a 300 square meter threshold, recent details clarify that most large retail stores with a sales area exceeding 200 square meters will be closed. Major supermarket and hypermarket chains, including Albert, Tesco, Penny Market, Kaufland, Lidl, Globus, and Billa, have announced closures for their large-format locations.

Exceptions to these regulations include stores under 200 square meters, which may remain open at the operator’s discretion, as well as pharmacies, gas stations, and outlets located in medical facilities, airports, or transit stations. Specifically, Billa branches at major train stations in Prague and Brno or at Václav Havel Airport may maintain limited operations. Additionally, online grocery services such as Rohlik.cz and Kosik.cz are expected to continue operations without restrictions.

To mark the occasion, events such as the ‘Day of Regions’ at the Museum and Gallery of Northern Pilsen are being held, featuring symbolic entry fees for visitors to the baroque architectural complex at Mariánská Týnice.