The winter sales period has begun and retail stores will remain open on Sunday, January 19, offering consumers opportunities for economical shopping. This year’s sales period lasts until Friday, February 27, with stores having the option of voluntary participation.
Read: Electricity bills 2026: The application that can reduce your bill by up to 70%
Which Sundays will stores be open
During the winter sales, retail stores will operate normally on the first and second Sundays, namely January 18 and 25. This gives employees and families the opportunity to visit stores with greater flexibility and take advantage of the available offers.
Store obligations for price marking
Stores participating in winter sales must follow specific transparency rules. The original price and reduced price must be clearly displayed at points of sale, with clear reference to the appropriate unit of measurement for each product. The previous price corresponds to the lowest price applied by the store at least thirty days before the discount began. For products that have been on the market for less than thirty days, the previous price refers to the lowest price in the last ten days. When the reduction increases gradually, the original price before the first discount application is used as the basis.
Rules for displaying discount percentages
During winter sales, displaying the discount percentage alongside prices is permitted. When more than 60% of products are available at reduced prices, the store must display the discount percentage in the window and in all advertising communications. In case of different percentages per category, displaying a range in the form “from X% to Y%” is required. Otherwise, it must be clarified that discounts apply to selected items.
Special regulations for stock and outlet stores
Stock or outlet stores are subject to stricter rules during winter sales. They must display the old price crossed out and the new reduced price on signs in a way that is clearly distinguishable to consumers. They may optionally display the percentage reduction within the store and on promotional material. During sales periods, these stores must present all intermediate prices crossed out and the new price in bold. In all advertising communications, only the words “sales” or “offers” are permitted.
Consumer rights and legal protection
Consumers enjoy full legal protection during winter sales. They retain the right to replacement or return of products in case of defects, regardless of whether they were purchased at a discount. Additionally, they are protected from false pricing and unfair commercial practices aimed at deception.
Penalties for misleading practices
Legislation provides for strict penalties for stores that violate winter sales rules. When discounts are inaccurate or misleading regarding the percentage, prices, or quantity of offered products, a fine of up to 2% of annual turnover is imposed, with a minimum limit of 20,000 euros. In case of repeat offense within five years, the maximum fine amount doubles to 4% of annual turnover. This measure aims to deter stores from adopting misleading practices that harm consumers.
Tips for smart shopping during sales
To make the most of winter sales, always check the original price and reduced price marked on products. Ensure that the previous price corresponds to the actual selling price of the previous thirty days. Keep receipts for every purchase, as they are essential for exercising your rights in case of problems.
Avoid impulse purchases and compare prices between different stores. Winter sales provide an opportunity for savings, but only when purchases are made with prudence and knowledge of your rights.
