Brandenburg Promotes 24/7 Operation of Smart Stores in Rural Areas

In response to the declining number of supermarkets in rural areas, the Brandenburg government is moving to facilitate the establishment of unmanned mini-stores that can operate around the clock. The state's Social Minister has announced plans to amend existing regulations to allow these Smart Stores to remain open seven days a week, offering residents better access to essential goods.

The initiative emerges from concerns over the accessibility of shopping options in less populated regions, where traditional supermarkets are disappearing. Currently, the law permits retail outlets in Brandenburg to operate 24 hours a day from Monday to Saturday, with limited exceptions for holidays. However, there are restrictions on the operation of unmanned stores on Sundays, which the proposed changes aim to address.

Minister for Social Affairs, Britta Müller, emphasized the potential benefits of Smart Stores, noting that they could play a crucial role in ensuring reliable and cost-effective access to necessities, while also fostering local economic growth. The proposed legislative changes come as a response to requests from both the ruling coalition and opposition parties, aiming to create a more flexible retail environment in the state.

The legislation would permit Smart Stores to be operational every day of the week, including Sundays, although provisions will ensure that no replenishment of stock occurs on these days to maintain the traditional Sunday rest period. The goal is to complement existing retail options without undermining them, ensuring that these new outlets serve as a valuable addition to the community.

Discussions with various stakeholders, including local governments, trade unions, religious organizations, and business associations, are set to follow the announcement to gather input on the proposed changes.

The CDU party, which initially brought forth the proposal, is supportive of the changes, advocating for an updated retail law that enhances economic opportunities in rural areas. The SPD party also views the introduction of Smart Stores as a significant opportunity to revitalize rural communities, making them more attractive for young families and enabling elderly residents to maintain their independence.

As it stands, existing regulations in Brandenburg permit retail openings on six Sundays or holidays each year for special occasions, alongside exceptions for tourist areas. However, business representatives are calling for an expansion of these provisions to allow for greater flexibility in operating hours, particularly in rural settings.

Industry groups, including the Berlin-Brandenburg Business Association, argue that a uniform approach to retail operations is necessary, advocating for equal treatment across various types of retail businesses. This perspective aligns with trends in other German states, such as Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Hessen, Sachsen-Anhalt, and Bavaria, where regulations have already been adapted to permit unmanned stores to operate more freely.

Overall, the initiative to implement Smart Stores in Brandenburg represents a proactive approach to addressing the challenges faced by rural communities in accessing essential goods, while also recognizing the changing landscape of retail in Germany.