Expanded Sunday and Holiday Shopping Hours in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
In a move to boost tourism and support local businesses, retailers in popular tourist destinations and UNESCO World Heritage cities in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern will now be able to open on more Sundays and public holidays.
Extended Opening Hours
The new ordinance introduces:
- A uniform seasonal opening period from March 15 to October 31
- An additional winter opening period from December 17 to January 8
These extended hours align with those in neighboring Schleswig-Holstein, as explained by Economic Minister Wolfgang Blank.
Applicable Locations
The new regulation applies to:
- UNESCO World Heritage cities
- Municipalities and regions recognized as health resorts with high tourism volume
Rationale for Expansion
Previously, retailers in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern faced competitive disadvantages due to more liberal regulations in coastal regions of Schleswig-Holstein and Poland. They argued for increased flexibility, particularly during the period from mid-December to early January, when numerous tourists visit the state.
Benefits
Blank emphasized the benefits of the new regulation:
- Strengthens Mecklenburg-Vorpommern’s tourism industry
- Provides equal opportunities with neighboring coastal regions
- Enhances the experience for tourists with open shops and lively shopping streets
Supporting Tourism and Local Economy
The ordinance aims to capitalize on the influx of tourists during the holiday season. By allowing retailers to remain open longer, it creates a more convenient and inviting environment for visitors and supports the local economy.
Addressing Concerns
Some critics have raised concerns about the impact of extended opening hours on employees. The ordinance includes provisions to ensure fair working conditions, including the following:
- Voluntary participation by employees
- Compensation for overtime
- Compliance with applicable employment laws
Implementation and Evaluation
The new ordinance will replace the previous "Bäderregelung" (bathing regulation). It will be closely monitored and evaluated to assess its impact on tourism, the local economy, and working conditions.
Conclusion
The expansion of Sunday and holiday shopping hours in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern is a significant step toward enhancing the state’s tourism industry, supporting local businesses, and meeting the demands of visitors. The ordinance aligns the state with neighboring regions, providing competitive advantages and bolstering the economy. By carefully balancing the needs of tourists, retailers, and employees, the new regulation is expected to create a positive impact on all stakeholders.
