Sunday Trading Laws
Retailers in Bridgend, Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan who wish to trade on a Sunday will need to comply with the Sunday Trading Act 1994.
The act aims to allow premises to trade, whilst protecting workers rights on Sundays and minimising noise pollution.
The act allows small shops to open on a Sunday and allows larger stores to open for six hours depending on what is being sold.
Sunday opening times must be displayed both in and outside of the premises.
Small premises
Sales area up to 280 square metres
- Areas such as stockrooms, offices, toilets and outdoor display areas are not included, only the area of the premises where customers are served and goods are displayed.
- The hours of opening for Sunday trading in small shops are unrestricted.
Large Premises
Sales area greater than 280 square metres
- The Sunday Trading Act restricts the hours of opening for shops with a floor area above 280 square metres.
- Large shops can only open for Sunday trading for a maximum period of six continuous hours between the hours of 10 am and 6 pm.
Exemptions
The act allows some large premises to open for longer than 6 continuous hours these are:
- Public Houses, Off-Licences and Take-aways (these are covered by Licensing Act 2003 add link to licencing)
- Chemists and pharmacies selling only medical goods
- Shops in railway stations
- Petrol filling stations and service areas
- Motor accessory shops
- Farm shops
- Exhibition stands
Guidance