Opening and closing hours in retail

Have you ever forgotten to buy an item and the shops have already closed? It’s very handy if you can rely on a shop nearby open late at night!

What can you do if you are a retailer and you believe that a competitor in your neighbourhood is not complying with mandatory opening and closing times?

In Belgian territory, save for some specific exemptions (seaside resorts, tourist centres, municipal dispensations, specific types of sales), retailers, craftspeople and companies engaged in the direct sale of products or the provision of services requiring contact with customers are all subject to legislation that imposes mandatory closing times.

More information …

The time is now!

If you know a trader who is not complying with opening and closing hours,  submit a complaint to the DGEM.

Publications

  • La nouvelle législation sur les heures d'ouverture – Un outil adapté à son époque

Regulation

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