The debate around Sunday trading in Poland has resumed, with discussions on potentially easing the regulations put in place in 2018. Currently, it is prohibited to trade on Sundays in commercial establishments, with a few exceptions such as postal services, confectioneries, and cafes. The ban was originally introduced by the Law and Justice government as a response to calls from the Solidarity trade union and Catholic church. However, the new ruling coalition consisting of the Poland 2050 party and Civic Coalition has promised to end the ban following their election in December 2023. A bill has been submitted to allow for two shopping Sundays per month, with double pay and an extra day off for those working on Sundays.
Proponents of easing the Sunday trading ban, such as Poland 2050 MP Ryszard Petru, argue that it would boost the retail sector’s turnover by approximately 4% and create 40,000 new jobs. The Vistula Employers’ Association Lewiatan supports the idea of leaving the decision on Sunday trading to businesses and their employees, emphasizing the importance of increasing consumption and VAT revenue. The proposed changes in trade regulations, part of the current government’s election program, include paying double wages for Sunday work and providing an additional day off for employees. The Association of Polish Trade and Services Employers suggests implementing restrictions such as shorter opening hours for establishments if Sunday trading were to be restored.
The move to reconsider Sunday trading regulations in Poland comes in response to changing consumer habits and demands. Consumers have expressed a need for an additional day to run errands and conduct shopping activities, leading to a call for the relaxation of the current ban on Sunday trading. The discussion around this issue reflects a broader debate on the balance between economic growth and worker well-being, with considerations of double pay and additional time off for employees working on Sundays. The potential increase in employment opportunities and turnover in the retail sector is seen as a positive outcome of easing the restrictions on Sunday trading.
The debate on Sunday trading in Poland highlights the intersection of political, economic, and social factors in shaping public policy. The ban on Sunday trading was originally implemented by the Law and Justice government in response to pressure from trade unions and the Catholic church. However, the new ruling coalition has promised to reverse this decision, reflecting changing attitudes towards consumer preferences and the need for economic growth. Proponents of easing the ban argue that it would benefit both businesses and employees, potentially leading to higher turnover and job creation in the retail sector. The proposed changes in trade regulations are part of the government’s broader initiatives to stimulate economic growth and address budget deficits through increased consumption and tax revenues.
Overall, the discussion on Sunday trading regulations in Poland underscores the complex considerations involved in balancing economic interests and worker rights. The potential for increased employment opportunities and turnover in the retail sector is seen as a positive outcome of easing the restrictions on Sunday trading. However, concerns remain about the impact on workers and the need to ensure fair compensation and working conditions for those employed on Sundays. As the debate continues, policymakers will need to carefully consider these various factors in determining the future of Sunday trading in Poland.
