KarstadtQuelle is looking at the possibility of introducing longer working hours at its stores in the central parts of some German cities, according to a report in German magazine Stern, citing a company spokesman. The report said that from January 2, 2007, KarstadtQuelle wants to extend the working hours of its stores in the central parts of Berlin, Hamburg, Cologne, Frankfurt and Munich until 2200 local time, from 2000 local time currently.

The company would examine the profitability of the new working hours in the course of 2007, and would switch back to closing earlier if necessary. According to the report, KarstadtQuelle also wants to introduce the longer working hours at its largest stores on Fridays and Saturdays during the month of Advent, too boost profit during the Christmas season.

In order to make these changes, the company will have to make some legal arrangements, as the closing time is currently being regulated by Germany's states. Many German states intend to liberalise closing times from 2007, while some of them are planning to do it before Christmas 2006. The decisions are to be taken by state parliaments in the next few weeks.

NamNews - Thursday 12th October 2006

 

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