Poland has reopened the discussion on Sunday trading regulations following calls from consumers for an additional day to run errands. The current law prohibits trading and related activities in commercial establishments on Sundays, except for certain exemptions. The ban was initially introduced by the previous PiS government, with support from the Solidarity trade union and Catholic church. However, the new ruling coalition has pledged to end the ban, with a bill being submitted to allow two shopping Sundays per month. This move is expected to increase turnover in the retail sector by about 4% and create an additional 40,000 jobs. Some experts argue that leaving the choice to trade on Sundays to businesses and their employees could help boost consumption and tax revenue in the country.
Roman Rogalski of the Vistula Employers’ Association Lewiatan believes that the decision on whether to trade on Sundays should be made by businesses and employees. He argues that if trading on Sundays is profitable for the employer, it could also benefit the employee, either through higher wages or meeting financial needs. Rogalski points out that Poland is facing a large budget deficit and falling consumption, which is impacting VAT revenue. Allowing Sunday trading could potentially mitigate this issue. The proposed changes in trade regulations, one of the 100 points in the current government’s election program, are currently being discussed by the parliamentary Economic and Development Commission. Some key changes include paying double wages for work on Sundays and providing an extra day off to employees.
The Association of Polish Trade and Services Employers suggests that any proposal to restore Sunday trading should include certain restrictions, such as shorter opening hours for establishments. This would allow businesses to operate on Sundays while still providing some limitations to protect employees and ensure a work-life balance. The reopening of the discussion on Sunday trading in Poland reflects changing consumer habits and preferences, with many people expressing a desire for more flexibility in when they can shop and run errands. The initial ban on Sunday trading was implemented by the former government following pressure from trade unions and the Catholic church, but the current administration is seeking to reverse this decision and provide more options for businesses and consumers.
MP Ryszard Petru of Poland 2050 forecasts that loosening Sunday trading restrictions could lead to a 4% increase in turnover in the retail sector and create thousands of new jobs. By allowing businesses and employees the freedom to choose whether to participate in Sunday trading, the government hopes to spur economic growth and increase tax revenue. The proposed changes in trade regulations align with the government’s broader goals for economic development and job creation. Allowing more flexibility in Sunday trading could have a positive impact on Poland’s economy, particularly in light of current challenges such as budget deficits and falling consumption.
In conclusion, the debate over Sunday trading regulations in Poland highlights the evolving nature of consumer habits and the need for flexibility in the retail sector. The current government is considering proposals to ease restrictions on Sunday trading, which could lead to increased turnover and job creation. Advocates argue that leaving the decision to trade on Sundays up to businesses and employees could have benefits for the economy, including boosting consumption and tax revenue. However, it is important to consider potential restrictions and safeguards to protect employees and ensure a healthy work-life balance. Ultimately, the outcome of this debate will shape the future of retail in Poland and could have broader implications for the country’s economy as a whole.
