As Poland continues to grapple with its restrictive Sunday trading laws, shoppers are left wondering about their options for purchases on May 11, 2025. Due to the ongoing ban on trading on most Sundays, this particular Sunday will see most stores closed, leaving consumers with limited choices.
The law restricting trade on Sundays and holidays came into effect on March 1, 2018, and has gradually tightened the shopping landscape in Poland. Originally, the law allowed for trading on the first and last Sundays of each month. However, since 2020, the number of Sundays exempt from the trading ban has dwindled to just seven. As of 2025, that number has been slightly increased to eight, but the upcoming May 11 is not one of them.
According to the provisions of the law, shopping is only permitted on specific Sundays throughout the year. These include the last Sundays of January, April, June, and August, as well as the Sunday before Easter and the two Sundays leading up to Christmas. With the new regulations, there will be eight shopping Sundays in total for 2025, but May 11 is not included on that list.
On May 11, 2025, major retailers such as Biedronka, Lidl, Auchan, and Kaufland will not be open for business. This means that consumers hoping to do their grocery shopping at these popular chains will have to wait until the next shopping Sunday, which falls on June 29, 2025. The ban on trading will restrict access to most commercial establishments, effectively shutting down large grocery stores and shopping malls for the day.
However, not all hope is lost for those needing to make purchases on this Sunday. The law does allow for certain exceptions. Shopping will still be possible at local convenience stores and franchise outlets such as Zabka and Carrefour Express, provided the owner is present to conduct the sales personally. This loophole allows some smaller shops to remain open, giving consumers a limited but essential option for purchasing basic goods.
Gas stations will also remain operational, providing a selection of everyday items, including snacks and beverages. Additionally, pharmacies, newspaper kiosks, and stores located at railway stations and airports will be open, offering another avenue for consumers to make necessary purchases.
For those who prefer to shop online, many internet retailers will also be available on May 11, allowing consumers to place orders for delivery. This option is particularly beneficial for residents in urban areas where delivery services are readily available, enabling them to stock up on groceries and other essentials without stepping foot outside.
Despite the limited options available, it’s important for consumers to plan accordingly. Many families may find themselves in need of groceries, especially after the long weekend preceding May 11, which saw limited shopping opportunities. With the May 1 holiday and the preceding days of closure, the demand for shopping on this Sunday is likely to be high.
Looking ahead, the calendar of shopping Sundays for 2025 includes January 26, April 13, April 27, June 29, August 31, and three Sundays in December: December 7, 14, and 21. The Sejm, Poland's legislative body, has yet to finalize any significant amendments to the Sunday trading law, which has left many consumers frustrated and confused about their shopping options.
Experts have noted that the current restrictions are unlikely to change in the near future. While there have been discussions about potentially allowing for more shopping Sundays, the reality remains that the existing law still holds firm. As such, consumers are advised to stay informed about the shopping calendar and plan their purchases accordingly.
In conclusion, Sunday, May 11, 2025, is not a shopping Sunday, and shoppers will need to adjust their plans accordingly. With most major retailers closed, the focus will shift to local convenience stores, gas stations, and online shopping options to meet consumer needs. As the debate over Sunday trading continues, it remains to be seen how Polish lawmakers will address these concerns in the future.
