Shops told they can’t open this Sunday
Retailers will not be open for business tomorrow after a court ruled yesterday that it would be illegal. The Athens Prefecture had initially decided that stores would be allowed to open for a second Sunday in the year, tomorrow, in a bid to help drum up business in the hard-hit sector. However, the Council of State ruled against the decision following an appeal from retail employees and employers. Some industry sources argue that Sunday trading offers the opportunity for large retailers to further boost their market share due to larger staff numbers and their financial stamina to pay workers overtime rates even if sales remain flat. The Confederation of Greek Commerce (ESEE) welcomed the decision, saying that steps to boost trade need to take into consideration small and medium-sized stores and the job positions they offer. Stores in Athens will be open on Sunday, December 19.
