Are the markets in Turkey going to be closed on Sunday?

İRFAN DONAT

Representatives of the tradesmen and retail sector in Turkey sparked debates following news that a workshop organized by the Turkish Retailers Federation (TPF) reached a consensus on the closure of chain markets on Sundays.

TAMPF's Denial

The Turkish Shopping Centers and Retailers Federation (TAMPF) stated that reports about the closure of markets on Sundays are baseless. This announcement was also supported by the Food Retailers Association (GDP).

Important Statement from GDP

The GDP stated in its announcement that it represents 47 thousand sales points and 465 thousand employees engaged in food retailing in our country, emphasizing that there is no consensus on the closure of markets on Sundays. The association stressed that the current situation would adversely affect employment.

Effects on Employment and Economy

The GDP indicated that the suggestion to close once a week would lead to a 14% loss in employment in the sector, and that this situation would also harm the supply chain. The statement highlighted, "Restrictions on working days will cause significant problems in the economy."

Consumer Grievance

Warning that the restriction of shopping days would lead to consumer grievances, the association emphasized that this situation would affect individuals with lower purchasing power even more.

As a result, the importance of ensuring the ability to provide services every day of the week in the digitalized shopping world has once again been highlighted.