New limitation on store opening hours during holiday
29.07.2016Company: Eversheds Sutherland, advokátní kancelář, s.r.o.
The Czech Parliament has approved a new law on opening hours for retailers and wholesalers, which we expect will come into effect on 1 October 2016. The law mandates that stores be closed on eight public holidays.
What will change?
Retailers and wholesalers may not open on these holidays: (i) 1 January, (ii) Easter Monday, (iii) 8 May, (iv) 28 September, (v) 28 October, (vi) 24 December (from 12:00 pm to midnight), (vii) 25 December and (viii) 26 December.
Who will be affected?
The ban on sales during holidays relates to stores with a sales floor of more than 200 m2 (i.e. supermarkets as well as other stores with a large sales floor). The ban also applies to all pawnshops, second-hand stores and facilities for the collection and purchase of waste, regardless of their size.
Are there any exceptions?
The following exceptions to the ban on sales during holidays have been stipulated: (i) stores whose sales floor is smaller than 200 m2 ; (ii) petrol stations selling fuels and lubricants; (iii) pharmacies; (iv) stores in areas of increased concentration of passengers at airports, railway stations and bus terminals; (v) stores in medical facilities; and (vi) retailers and wholesalers at times when a state of danger, state of emergency, state of threat or state of war has been declared.
What are the potential consequences of a violation?
Violation of the ban on sales during holidays is an administrative delict for which a fine of up to CZK 1 million may be imposed and up to CZK 5 million for repeated violations. Should you have any questions regarding the ban on sales during holidays, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Mgr. Ing. Tomáš Jelínek, Attorney-at-law E tomas.jelinek@dhplegal.com T +420 255 706 547
Mgr. Tomáš Procházka, Partner E tomas.prochazka@dhplegal.com T +420 255 706 519
Tags: Law |
