Supermarkets may soon have extended opening hours on Sundays as part of a potential government reform. Currently, large stores in England are restricted to operating for six consecutive hours between 10am and 6pm on Sundays, with closures mandated on Easter Sunday and Christmas Day. However, smaller shops under 280 sq metres are not subject to these limitations and can trade freely on Sundays.
According to reports from The Grocer, Treasury sources have informally discussed relaxing Sunday trading regulations amidst criticism faced by Labour over upcoming business rates adjustments. The government has passed a bill enabling the introduction of a higher business rate multiplier on properties with a rental value exceeding £500,000, with the aim of subsidizing lower rates for smaller businesses.
While the possibility of changes to Sunday trading rules remains uncertain, previous attempts have encountered obstacles, with differing opinions within political parties and concerns from retailers and unions. Additionally, businesses are grappling with increased costs following the National Insurance rate hike for employers and adjustments to the minimum wage across different age groups.
Several major supermarket chains, including Tesco, Asda, and Sainsbury’s, have jointly addressed Chancellor Rachel Reeves, cautioning about the potential repercussions of escalating costs, such as job losses, inflation spikes, and store closures. The government has defended these financial measures as necessary to safeguard public services and promote economic support for younger workers and apprentices.