Will markets be closed on Sunday? Expert's statement: Small businesses need a breather

As consumer habits change, small businesses are also struggling. This has brought the question, "Will chain stores be closed on Sunday?" back to the forefront.

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MINISTER BOLAT ANNOUNCED

Responding to this question, Trade Minister Ömer Bolat said, "In order for retail businesses to determine their working hours at a national or regional level, the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey and the Confederation of Turkish Tradesmen and Craftsmen would need to submit a joint proposal. However, our Ministry has not yet received such a proposal. However, governorships can determine working hours at the provincial level."

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF CLOSING ON SUNDAY FOR CONSUMERS AND TRADESMEN?

Commenting on this development, Consumer Confederation Member Nurten Sırma evaluated the advantages and disadvantages of closing chain markets on Sundays for consumers and tradespeople.

The highlights from Nurten Sırma's statements are as follows:

Having a multitude of players in the retail sector is crucial for combating inflation and eliminating unfair competition. Unfortunately, some retail outlets that once held a significant place have now largely been forgotten. For example, many of the products we used to buy from small businesses like our neighborhood mini-grocers, glassware shops, or car washes can now be found in chain stores.

Consumer Confederation Member Nurten Sırma answered the question (Screenshot)

"SMALL SHOPKEEPERS NEED TO LIVE AND BREATHE"

To prevent unfair competition and ensure full competition, small businesses must be able to live and breathe. In this context, the debate over whether chain markets should be closed on Sundays has been a topic of public debate for many years.

Today, there are increasing demands for Sundays to become a "breathing space" for small businesses, both to protect consumers and ensure price balance, increase product diversity and support small tradespeople.