Overview
- Section 5 of North Rhine–Westphalia’s shop-opening law permits bakeries to trade for up to five hours on January 1.
- Supermarkets and discounters must remain closed on New Year’s Day in NRW.
- Many operators will keep stores shut to give staff the day off, so customers should check notices or call ahead.
- Bakeries at stations and airports, plus many service-station and kiosk outlets, may operate under travel rules and must close by 17:00 on January 1.
- December 31 is a regular trading day in NRW, though many shops choose shorter hours.