Shoppers in Poland will face limited retail options this Sunday, February 15, 2026, as the date does not fall within the country’s restricted list of trading Sundays. The continued limitations stem from a lack of progress on legislative changes aimed at liberalizing retail trading hours.
Despite earlier discussions regarding potential amendments to the law restricting Sunday trading, the Polish Sejm has not finalized any revisions. A previous proposal suggested allowing trade on two Sundays per month, but this has stalled in committee. The existing regulations remain in effect, limiting shopping opportunities to smaller neighborhood stores and those operating under franchise agreements, such as Żabka convenience stores.
The current law, enacted in 2018, permits trade on eight Sundays a year. For 2026, those dates are January 25, March 29, April 26, June 28, August 30, December 6, December 13 and December 20. This leaves the vast majority of Sundays subject to trading restrictions, impacting larger retailers like Lidl, Biedronka, and Stokrotka.
Some larger retailers have circumvented the restrictions by adopting self-service models, where customers scan and pay for items without direct employee assistance. While legally permissible, this approach relies on employing security personnel rather than traditional sales staff. This model is expected to gain traction as a compromise between maintaining trading opportunities and adhering to the legal framework.
Online shopping remains a viable alternative for consumers seeking to make purchases on restricted Sundays. Delivery services, particularly in larger cities, are equipped to handle increased demand, offering a convenient option for those planning events or needing to replenish supplies.
The future of Sunday trading in Poland remains uncertain. While discussions regarding further liberalization have occurred, the election of Karol Nawrocki as president, representing the Law and Justice party, suggests a reduced likelihood of significant changes to the current regulations. The existing framework, with its limited number of trading Sundays, is likely to persist unless both the parliamentary majority and the president demonstrate a willingness to revise the law.
The next scheduled trading Sunday in Poland will be March 29, 2026.
