In Poland, since 2018, there is simply a ban on trade on Sundays and holidays, which applies to most commercial establishments. That means most large shops and buying malls will be closed these days. Staff employed under a contract of employment may not carry out trade-related duties on those days.
In 2025, 8 trade Sundays were scheduled for April 13, June 8, September 7, October 12, November 9, December 7, and December 29. On these days, buyers will be able to store without restrictions. However, in a case on March 30, 2025, it is not a commercial Sunday, so most shops and buying malls will be closed.
Exceptions to the prohibition of trade:
The Act provides for exceptions to the ban on trade on Sundays and holidays. It shall not apply to shops where the sale is carried out by the owner. This exception besides applies to certain establishments, specified as:
* Fuel stations
* Cinema
* Restaurants
* Sugarcakes
Entrepreneurs who break the rules can be fined and, in the event of persistent violation of the ban, even punishment for restrictions on freedom. On a non-commercial Sunday, buying can be done in respective places that are exempt from the trade ban. Here are the most crucial ones:
* Fuel station stores: Most of them open 7 days a week
* Airport shops: you can store here, even on Sundays
* Shops in the hotel: any are open 24/7
* net shops: you can store online, without restrictions
* Stores with exceptions: any shops that sale personally by the owner are open on Sundays
Practical information:
erstwhile planning buying on Sunday, it is worth checking the beginning hours in advance, due to the fact that not all franchise or settlement store will be open. This can be done on the store's website or by phone. This way, we avoid unnecessary travel and we can store without hindrance.
It is besides worth remembering that the ban on trade on Sundays is beneficial for workers who will be able to remainder and spend time with their family. It is besides an chance to make tourism and recreation, as people will be able to go on trips or spend time in parks and recreation sites.
Figures:
According to the Central Statistical Office data, in 2020, 73% of Poles supported the ban on trade on Sundays. In turn, 62% of entrepreneurs felt that the ban on trade on Sundays did not affect their business.
In 2020, the ban on trade on Sundays allowed to save about PLN 1.5 billion, which could have been allocated to another purposes. According to estimates, the ban on trade on Sundays can besides benefit the environment, as it can reduce the number of cars on the road and exhaust emissions.
Conclusions:
The ban on trade on Sundays is beneficial for workers, the environment and society. It should be respected by all traders and consumers. On a non-commercial Sunday, you can store in respective places that are exempt from the trade ban. It is worth checking the beginning hours in advance to avoid unnecessary travel and to be able to store without obstacles.
Read more:
Trade ban on Sundays: What does this mean for consumers and entrepreneurs?
