Poland observes a total retail trading ban on Sunday, May 17, 2026, meaning major supermarkets and shopping malls will remain closed, leaving only limited exemptions for smaller outlets.
Sunday Trading Ban: The May 17 Reality
For those planning weekend shopping, note that Sunday, May 17, 2026, is a non-trading day in Poland. Major hypermarkets, discount chains, and shopping mall stores will be closed.
Polish law provides for specific exceptions, allowing select businesses to operate despite the general prohibition. Consumers should rely on the official schedule to determine which locations may legally serve customers.
Authorized Retail Exceptions
Smaller private shops and stores operating under a franchise model, such as Żabka, are permitted to open on restricted Sundays. These locations determine their own hours, which are typically shorter than on weekdays, often ranging from 10:00 to 20:00.
Retailers Closed on May 17
The country’s largest retail chains will not be operational this Sunday. Consumers are advised to defer major grocery shopping until Monday, May 18, 2026, when all retail locations return to standard operating hours.
2026 Trading Sunday Schedule
There are no trading Sundays scheduled throughout May 2026. The next opportunity for unrestricted shopping in major supermarkets will not occur until June 28, 2026. Retail is permitted on only eight Sundays throughout the entire year.
Status of Sunday Trading Legislation
Current regulations restricting Sunday commerce remain in effect for 2026, limiting trading to eight specific days annually. At present, the government does not have plans to modify these restrictive policies.