An association representing the region’s smaller retailers is asking local authorities to allow them to change their opening times.
The Algarve retailers association ACRAL, has initiated the move in reaction to new opening times for hypermarkets (see the Algarve Resident October 24 edition) as a result of a new law for establishments covering more than 2,000 square metres.
Local Câmaras have 180 days to rule about the opening hours of hypermarkets on Sundays and could restrict the hours, following consultations with unions and employers’ associations and consumer groups.
ACRAL wants a more flexible timetable for the local smaller businesses and says the Algarve should adopt the Spanish system of extending lunch hours and opening until later in the evening.
