QUEBEC CITY In a significant move aimed at modernizing retail practices, the Quebec government is seeking to abolish a long-standing regulation that restricts most retail stores from opening beyond 5 p.m. on weekends. This initiative comes in response to the growing competition posed by online retailers, such as Shein and Temu, which have been rapidly gaining market share.
The announcement, made by Economy Minister Samuel Poulin, emphasizes the need for increased operational flexibility in the province’s retail landscape. Poulin pointed out that Quebec is unique in North America for maintaining such restrictions on store hours, contrasting with other jurisdictions that allow more liberal business hours. Current exceptions to the rule include grocery stores and pharmacies, which are permitted to operate beyond the conventional hours.
This decision follows a successful pilot project launched the previous year that permitted selected retailers in three cities to remain open until 8 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, provided those days did not coincide with holidays. Encouraged by the positive outcomes of this pilot scheme, the government is now proposing to extend these flexible hours across the province. Under the new proposal, retailers would be allowed to remain open until 9 p.m. every day of the week, thereby giving them a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving retail environment.
Minister Poulin emphasized the necessity for retailers to adapt and thrive in the face of online competition. By extending store hours, the government aims to enhance the shopping experience for consumers and provide local businesses with the tools required to compete effectively. Poulin’s statement underscores a broader recognition of the changing dynamics in the retail sector and the importance of supporting local businesses as they navigate digital challenges.
Following the forthcoming announcement, the proposed changes will be subjected to a 45-day consultation period, allowing stakeholders to provide input and express any concerns regarding the modifications to retail operations in Quebec. The government seeks to engage with various parties to ensure that the new regulations reflect a consensus that benefits both retailers and consumers alike.
This report was initially published by The Canadian Press on December 8, 2025, highlighting a turning point for Quebec's retail sector as it grapples with the challenges and demands of contemporary shopping habits.
The move has been welcomed by many in the business community, who believe that extending hours will not only boost sales but also create a more vibrant shopping environment in Quebec. Retailers have long argued that the current restrictions place them at a disadvantage compared to online competitors who operate without such constraints. This proposed change could signify a pivotal shift in the province's approach to retail regulation.
