In Poland, the restrictions on Sunday trading have been a topic of considerable discussion since the implementation of the Act of January 10, 2018. This law regulates trading on Sundays and holidays, aiming to provide employees in the retail sector with time off to spend with their families. As a result, the number of Sundays designated for trading has been limited, leading to significant changes in shopping habits.
As of 2025, there are eight designated trade Sundays throughout the year. Notably, April 6, 2025, is not among these Sundays, meaning that most retail stores, including popular chains like Lidl and Biedronka, will be closed for business on that day. The upcoming trade Sundays in April are April 13 and April 27, providing limited opportunities for consumers to shop during the month.
The list of trade Sundays for 2025 includes January 26, April 13, April 27, June 29, August 31, December 7, December 14, and December 21. This year marks a slight increase in trade Sundays compared to previous years, primarily due to amendments that established December 24 as a public holiday, which affects trading patterns significantly.
According to the current law, trade is prohibited after 2:00 PM on Holy Saturday, which falls on April 19, 2025. This means that consumers will have to plan their shopping accordingly, as many large stores tend to close earlier than the stipulated time. On the other hand, fines for violating the Sunday trading ban can range from 1,000 PLN to 100,000 PLN, and persistent offenders may face criminal charges, including the possibility of restrictions on liberty.
Despite the restrictions, there are exceptions to the trading ban. Certain establishments can remain open on Sundays, including gas stations, pharmacies, florists, and small shops where the owner is present behind the counter. This means that while larger retail chains will be closed on April 6, consumers can still shop at local convenience stores or smaller outlets.
Additionally, online shopping remains an option for consumers on non-trade Sundays. Many online retailers offer delivery services, allowing customers to place orders even on days when traditional brick-and-mortar stores are closed. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those who may need to stock up on essentials or plan for events, such as family gatherings.
Looking ahead, the Polish government has been considering amendments to the existing law, which would allow for more trade Sundays. The proposed changes would enable trading on two Sundays each month, a shift that many retailers and consumers have been advocating for. However, as of now, the current restrictions remain in place, with no immediate changes expected.
For April 2025, the situation is clear: April 6 is not a trade Sunday, and shoppers will need to adjust their plans accordingly. The next opportunity to shop at larger stores will be on April 13, and many consumers are eagerly anticipating this date. The month of April is particularly noteworthy, as it features two trade Sundays, allowing for more shopping opportunities compared to previous months.
As the debate over Sunday trading continues, it remains to be seen how the public and lawmakers will respond to the proposed changes. For now, consumers must navigate the existing regulations and make the most of the designated trade Sundays.
In summary, the restrictions on Sunday trading in Poland, established by the Act of January 10, 2018, continue to shape shopping habits. April 6, 2025, is not a trade Sunday, meaning that most large stores will be closed, leaving consumers to rely on smaller shops or online options for their shopping needs. With the next trade Sundays set for April 13 and 27, shoppers are reminded to plan accordingly.
