Dutch shop opening rules under review as Sunday work debate grows
The Dutch cabinet is reviewing shop opening rules. FNV warns that longer Sunday and evening hours could put more pressure on workers.
What the law says
The Dutch cabinet is reviewing the rules for shop opening hours. The review has brought back a familiar question in the Netherlands. Should shops get more freedom to open on Sundays, evenings and public holidays?
The law carries the Dutch name Winkeltijdenwet. In English, it means the Shop Opening Hours Act. The law sets the basic rules for when shops may open.
Shops can open from Monday to Saturday between 6:00 and 22:00. On Sundays and public holidays, local councils decide if shops can open.
Why Sunday shopping differs by town
Sunday shopping does not work the same way across the country. In large cities, many shops open on Sundays. In other towns, local councils set stricter rules.
This local system gives towns and cities room to choose what fits their area. It also means shoppers can face different rules from one place to another.
Why the debate is back
The government expects to finish the review before the summer of 2026. It will study how people shop on Sundays and public holidays.
The review will also look at whether the country should ease the ban on Sunday and holiday opening.
Trade union FNV warns the cabinet not to weaken weekend protection. The union says longer opening hours could affect more than shop staff.
FNV warns about pressure on workers
FNV says longer hours could also add pressure on delivery drivers, warehouse workers, cleaners and security staff.
The union says longer Sunday opening may help shoppers, but hurt workers. It also says small shops may stay open longer because they fear large chains will get ahead.
Court ruling supports local limits
The debate has also reached the courts. On 6 May 2026, the Dutch trade and industry appeals court rejected requests from seven supermarkets that wanted more Sunday opening.
The court said local councils still have room to limit Sunday opening under the current law. The ruling gives towns and cities more support in keeping local rules in place.
What happens next
No new rule has passed yet. The cabinet could keep the current system. It could also give shops more freedom, or reduce the power of local councils.
For now, the key question is simple. Should the Netherlands make shop opening rules more flexible, or keep stronger protection for Sundays, evenings and public holidays?
