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The city of Darmstadt finds a solution after complaints from the neighborhood.
After a temporary closure, Alara's beverage shop in the Martinsviertel district now permitted limited Sunday sales . This was made possible following discussions between the owner, Mehmet Ünal , and the city. Head of Public Order, Paul Georg Wandrey, had sought dialogue after complaints from neighbors and promised to develop a practical solution – successfully.
To comply with legal requirements, a clear barrier to access installed at the entrance. This ensures that the sales area cannot be entered on Sundays. The solution was developed in close consultation between the operator and several municipal authorities and adheres to the legal framework of the Hessian Shop Opening Hours Act , while also accommodating the business owner.
Commitment to practical regulations
In parallel, City Councillor Wandrey addressed a letter to the Hessian Minister of Labor, Heike Hofmann . In it, he points out the particular challenges faced by small business owners and advocates for more modern and practical regulations . Specifically, he argues for allowing so-called "Spätis" (late-night convenience stores) to open on Sundays and for an update to the kiosk definition , which he considers outdated.
Wandrey emphasizes:
“I am very pleased that we have found a solution together. It is important that we make things as easy as possible for business owners here in our city.”
Alara’s beverage shop has been an integral part of the local supply network in the Martinsviertel district for more than 15 years .
Legal background
The temporary closure was triggered by the Hessian Shop Opening Hours Act (HLöG) . This law generally stipulates that retail outlets must remain closed on Sundays and public holidays petrol stations , travel goods stores at train stations and airports, or bakeries for limited periods . Regular sales within a shop are therefore not allowed on Sundays, which is why the city had to take action following complaints.
(Darmstadt - Red/PSD/DK)
