Due to an exemption, local retailers are allowed to open for the first time on Sunday (December 19). The one-time special regulation does not apply to supermarkets and drug stores. Due to the lockdown, the stationary trade fell this year by three shopping Saturdays in Advent and the traditionally strong Marian holiday. The open Sunday before Christmas will only be able to compensate for a fraction of the lockdown sales loss.
Retail researchers at the University of Linz are expecting additional sales of 150 million euros. According to estimates, sales on Sunday shopping is comparable to a Friday, but not to a Saturday during Advent. Employees who volunteer for this day earn double that and get an extra day off. The exceptional Sunday is not intended to be a door opener for the general liberalization of shop opening times. The union rejected further special regulations for the Sunday opening.
