Germany – Retail and Consumer Issues

What are the typical opening hours for shops in Germany?

Shop trading hours across Germany are set by individual state legislation, making this one of the more heavily regulated retail environments on the continent. Responsibility for regulating shop opening hours was devolved to Germany’s federal states as part of the country’s federalism reform in 2006. In July 2025, Bavaria became the final state to enact its own Shop Closing Act, meaning all 16 states now maintain separate shop opening laws — though most broadly follow the structure of the original federal framework.

Certain states — including North Rhine-Westphalia, Schleswig-Holstein, and Baden-Württemberg — allow shops to trade around the clock from Monday through Saturday, while others, notably Bavaria and Saarland, impose tighter restrictions that typically require shops to shut by 8 pm. In practice, most large supermarkets in urban centres tend to operate between roughly 7 am and 10 pm on weekdays, whereas smaller independent retailers commonly observe shorter hours, usually from around 9 am to 6 or 7 pm. Shopping malls generally follow supermarket-style hours, though individual anchor stores may set their own schedules.

Across all states, legislation prohibits shops from opening on Sundays and public holidays as a general rule. This reflects a deep-seated cultural norm: Sunday is widely regarded in Germany as a day for rest, family, and personal time, and a recent survey found approximately 74% of respondents oppose the idea of Sunday shop openings. Unlike in countries where Sunday hours are merely shorter, in Germany the vast majority of shops remain completely shut.

Certain categories of business are permitted to open on Sundays under defined conditions. These include petrol stations, shops situated at airports and railway stations, bakeries, florists, and small food and essential household goods shops with a sales floor area below 100 square metres, as well as souvenir outlets at tourist sites. Restaurants, cafés, bars, museums, and cinemas are unaffected by Sunday trading restrictions and remain open as normal.

Every federal state permits shops to open on at least three Sundays or public holidays annually. Berlin allows the highest number of exceptions at up to eight per year, while Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and Baden-Württemberg cap theirs at three. These designated “Verkaufsoffene Sonntage” (open Sundays) are becoming increasingly widespread, particularly in the weeks approaching Christmas. Your city’s official website or local announcements will indicate which dates apply in your area.

What forms of payment are typically accepted in Germany?

Germany’s payment habits differ considerably from those of many other countries, and being unprepared can cause real inconvenience at the till. Cash continued to account for roughly half of all transactions at the point of sale in 2023, according to the Deutsche Bundesbank’s study on payment behaviour in Germany. That said, a gradual shift is under way: the Bundesbank’s data shows cash settling just over half of in-person payments in 2023, and forecasts suggest 2024 or 2025 could mark the first year in which card payments overtake cash as the most commonly used method.

When asked why they value cash, respondents to the Bundesbank survey most frequently cited privacy protection (63%), the certainty of immediate payment settlement (47%), and the ease of tracking spending (41%). These preferences have real consequences: even in 2025, a notable number of shops, cafés, and restaurants display “Nur Barzahlung” (cash only) notices — something that regularly surprises new arrivals. Cash is deeply woven into everyday commercial life in Germany, and many smaller businesses, service providers, and independent traders either strongly prefer it or will not accept anything else.

The most widely used non-cash payment instrument is the Girocard — previously referred to as the EC-Karte — a debit card tied directly to a German bank account. Debit cards accounted for 27% of all payments in 2023, placing them second only to cash and representing a rise of five percentage points compared with 2021. You will receive a Girocard automatically when you open a German bank account, and it is accepted at most supermarkets and mainstream retailers throughout the country.

Credit cards — principally Visa and Mastercard — are generally accepted in city centres and tourist locations, as well as at major chains. However, e-wallets account for roughly 13% of in-person payments, while credit cards feature in fewer than 10% of transactions. In smaller towns, local markets, and independent shops, card acceptance can be patchy at best. Carrying cash as a precaution is always a sensible approach.

Mobile payment options are gaining ground in Germany, with Google Pay and Apple Pay among the more widely accepted solutions for contactless smartphone payments. Many businesses now support contactless transactions through digital wallets, though some accept only linked debit cards rather than credit cards. For recurring payments — rent, utilities, and subscription services — direct debit (Lastschrift) is the standard mechanism, allowing the payee to draw funds from your bank account automatically on an agreed date. This is how most landlords and utility companies collect their fees in Germany.

What are the major supermarkets in Germany, and how do they differ?

Germany’s supermarket sector is highly competitive and spans several clear pricing tiers. Whether you are after affordable everyday staples or premium organic products, there is a format to suit most households. A small number of large chains dominate the national landscape, complemented by regional operators in specific areas.

Discount and budget supermarkets represent one of Germany’s most distinctive contributions to global retail. Aldi — divided into Aldi Nord and Aldi Süd depending on your location — and Lidl are the two leading hard discounters; both were founded in Germany and have since expanded internationally. They offer a deliberately narrow product range, predominantly own-brand items at low prices, supplemented by weekly rotating non-food promotions. Netto Marken-Discount, Penny, and Norma operate in a similar space. These chains are found throughout Germany, including in smaller towns and rural communities.

Mid-range full-service supermarkets include Edeka, Rewe, and Kaufland. Edeka is Germany’s largest supermarket group by turnover, operating both company-owned stores and independently managed franchise branches — which means product selection and quality can vary between locations. Rewe is similarly widespread and generally stocks a wider range than the discounters, with more fresh produce and organic options. Kaufland stores are larger hypermarket-format outlets that also carry household items and electronics. Both Edeka and Rewe run loyalty schemes — Rewe’s PAYBACK programme, for instance, allows shoppers to accumulate points across multiple participating retailers.

Premium and specialist supermarkets include Tegut, which emphasises organic and locally sourced products, and dedicated organic-food chains such as Alnatura and Basic, carrying certified organic ranges. These are found mainly in larger cities. For international specialities or gourmet food, Galeria’s food halls and upmarket delicatessens in city centres can provide what mainstream chains cannot. Germany’s supermarket pricing is generally competitive by European standards, with the discount tier in particular offering outstanding value for money.

How popular is online shopping in Germany, and what are the main platforms?

Germany ranks among the largest e-commerce markets in Europe, and purchasing goods online has become a firmly established part of daily life. The major platforms cover a vast range of categories from groceries and electronics to clothing and furniture. Delivery networks are well developed in cities, though customers in rural postcodes may occasionally encounter slightly longer waiting times.

Amazon.de is the market-leading marketplace, offering an exceptionally broad product catalogue with Prime same-day or next-day delivery in many urban areas. Zalando, which was established in Berlin, is a dominant force in fashion and footwear e-commerce and enjoys widespread popularity across Germany. Otto is one of the country’s longest-established and largest online retailers, with particular strength in home goods, fashion, and electronics. MediaMarkt and Saturn — both part of the same retail group — are the leading channels for consumer electronics, both online and in physical stores. eBay.de remains heavily used for both new products and second-hand items. For grocery home delivery, both Rewe and Edeka provide online ordering with delivery or click-and-collect options, while rapid delivery services like Gorillas and Flink have operated in major cities, though the sector has undergone significant consolidation in recent years.

Deliveries in Germany are generally dependable, with DHL (part of Deutsche Post), DPD, Hermes, and UPS serving as the main carriers. Standard delivery typically arrives within one to three working days. Most carriers provide parcel tracking and the option to redirect shipments to a nearby Packstation — DHL’s network of automated parcel lockers — which is especially handy if you are unlikely to be home during delivery hours. Registering for a free DHL customer account unlocks access to hundreds of Packstation locations across the country.

When ordering from websites outside the EU, be aware of the customs and import duty implications. Goods brought in from non-EU countries with a declared value above €150 are liable to customs duty, and VAT is applied to all imports irrespective of value (as of 2025 — verify current thresholds at the official German Customs Authority (Zoll) website). It is also worth noting that online retailers are generally not permitted to deliver goods on Sundays and public holidays under German shop opening law, except in specific categories such as fresh produce, flowers, and newspapers.

Are there shops or products in Germany catering specifically to expats or international tastes?

Germany’s major cities support thriving international food scenes, and sourcing ingredients or products from around the world is generally straightforward if you live in an urban area. The country has longstanding communities with roots in Turkey, South Asia, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and beyond, which means a diverse ecosystem of specialist grocery shops, markets, and food businesses has taken root over decades.

Turkish supermarkets and produce shops — often labelled “Türkischer Supermarkt” or operating as part of regional chains like Başkent or Meyve Sebze — are extremely prevalent in German cities and suburbs. They typically carry a broad range of fresh vegetables, pulses, spices, halal meat, flatbreads, and a generous selection of dairy and preserved goods, usually at attractive prices. Many expats find these stores useful regardless of their own culinary background, given the quality and variety on offer.

Asian supermarkets are well established in major cities. Chains such as Go Asia and Asia Markt carry extensive ranges of East and Southeast Asian produce, covering Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai, and Indian ingredients. Vietnamese grocery shops in particular are notably numerous in cities like Berlin. South Asian staples — fresh curry leaves, specialist lentils, and spice blends — can be found in shops advertising “Indische Lebensmittel” or “Pakistanische Lebensmittel” in most large urban centres.

Middle Eastern and African groceries are also accessible in cities. South American products can be harder to track down, though cities with established Latin American communities — Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Berlin among them — typically have dedicated shops stocking relevant produce and brands. In rural areas, access to international goods narrows considerably, and ordering online from specialist suppliers is often the most practical route.

Among international retail brands, IKEA has a strong presence with numerous large stores across Germany. H&M, Zara, and other major global clothing chains occupy space in most large shopping centres. Apple Stores are found in major cities. Germany does not have a direct equivalent of large American-style warehouse membership clubs such as Costco, though Metro operates cash-and-carry wholesale outlets accessible to certain business customers and registered members.

What are your rights as a consumer in Germany?

Consumer protection in Germany rests on a solid legal foundation, drawing on both EU directives and national law — principally the Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB, or German Civil Code). The main areas of protection concern defective goods, the right to withdraw from online purchases, and prohibitions on deceptive commercial practices. Always consult the official sources listed below for the most up-to-date legal position, as consumer legislation continues to develop.

Statutory warranty (Gewährleistung): German law entitles consumers to a minimum two-year warranty on most goods they purchase. This statutory guarantee — known as the Gewährleistung — covers defects that come to light at any point during that period. Where a defect is identified, the consumer may demand a repair or replacement; if neither is reasonably achievable, a price reduction or full refund becomes available. These rights apply whether the purchase was made in a physical shop or through an online seller operating in Germany. It is important to keep your receipt or other proof of purchase.

Right of return in physical shops: There is no statutory entitlement to return or exchange a product bought in a bricks-and-mortar shop simply because you have changed your mind. Many retailers extend a voluntary returns policy, but its terms are set by the seller. This contrasts with the legal framework in some other countries that provides an automatic cooling-off period for in-store purchases. In Germany, the only circumstances in which the law compels a remedy from a physical retailer are when the goods are actually defective.

Right of withdrawal for online and distance purchases (Widerrufsrecht): When you buy goods online or through any distance selling channel, you benefit from the Widerrufsrecht — a legal right to withdraw from the contract within 14 days of receiving the goods, with no obligation to give a reason. The seller is required to inform you clearly of this right at the time of purchase. Once you have exercised your withdrawal, you generally have a further 14 days in which to return the item. Certain product categories are excluded from this right, including perishable food, personalised goods, and sealed hygiene products that have been unsealed after delivery.

Misleading advertising and unfair commercial practices: The Gesetz gegen den unlauteren Wettbewerb (UWG, or Act Against Unfair Competition) bans misleading advertising, aggressive sales techniques, and deceptive pricing. In line with the European Commission’s Green Deal agenda, two EU directives are strengthening requirements on how companies communicate environmental claims to consumers and enhancing scrutiny of sustainability assertions. These are being incorporated into German national law, with the effect of bolstering protections against greenwashing.

For authoritative and current guidance on your rights as a consumer in Germany, refer to the official Federal Ministry of Justice (Bundesministerium der Justiz) and the Federal Government Services Portal (verwaltung.bund.de), both of which publish accessible summaries of consumer rights and legal guarantees.

Which organisations protect consumers in Germany, and how can you contact them?

A well-developed network of consumer protection bodies operates at both federal and state level in Germany. The vast majority of their services are open to all residents, including expats, regardless of nationality. The following are the key organisations to be aware of:

• Verbraucherzentrale (Consumer Advice Centres): The Verbraucherzentrale sits at the heart of Germany’s consumer advocacy landscape, delivering a broad spectrum of advice and support services to the public. Its regional offices — one in each of Germany’s 16 states — provide personalised guidance on topics including contractual disputes, product safety issues, and online shopping rights. Basic advice is frequently provided free of charge, while detailed consultations or contract reviews may involve a modest fee, typically in the range of €10–€50 (as of 2025 — confirm current fees directly with the relevant office). Find your nearest branch at www.verbraucherzentrale.de.
• Verbraucherzentrale Bundesverband (vzbv) — Federation of German Consumer Organisations: The national umbrella organisation representing consumer interests at federal level, encompassing policy advocacy and the pursuit of model legal actions. In December 2024, the vzbv filed a model declaratory action against Meta Platforms over alleged data protection violations, illustrating the body’s active enforcement function. Visit www.vzbv.de.
• European Consumer Centre Germany (Europäisches Verbraucherzentrum — EVZ): The EVZ specialises in cross-border consumer disputes within the EU, Norway, Iceland, and the UK. If you have purchased goods from a retailer based in another EU member state and a dispute arises, the EVZ can step in to assist. Visit www.evz.de/en.
• Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (Bundesamt für Verbraucherschutz und Lebensmittelsicherheit — BVL): This authority is charged with protecting public health and guaranteeing the safety of goods entering the market, with a particular focus on food, cosmetics, and consumer products. The BVL carries out inspections, enforces safety standards, and coordinates with other EU member states to uphold high safety levels. Visit www.bvl.bund.de.
• Federal Ministry of Justice (Bundesministerium der Justiz): The government ministry with responsibility for consumer protection legislation in Germany. It issues guidance on consumer rights and oversees the transposition of EU consumer directives into German law. Visit www.bundesjustizministerium.de.
• Federal Cartel Office (Bundeskartellamt): Oversees competition in German markets and investigates abuses that harm consumers, including price-fixing arrangements and the market dominance of digital platforms. Visit www.bundeskartellamt.de.
• Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): Germany hosts a range of sector-specific ombudsman and ADR schemes covering areas such as banking (Bankenombudsmann), energy, telecommunications, and insurance. If a dispute arises with a retailer or trader, the recommended first step is to approach the business directly with your proof of purchase and supporting documentation. Should that fail to resolve matters, the Verbraucherzentrale can facilitate mediation. Details of the federal ADR framework can be found at the Federal Ministry of Justice website, and the EU’s Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) platform is available for online purchase disputes between parties in different EU member states.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I shop anywhere on a Sunday in Germany?

As a general rule, state legislation across Germany prohibits shops from opening on Sundays and public holidays. That said, specific exemptions exist for certain business types and locations: petrol stations, airport and railway station shops, bakeries, pharmacies, kiosks, and small florists may be permitted to open on Sunday mornings under particular conditions. Each state also designates a limited number of open Sundays per year — check your state’s specific rules to find out when these apply locally.

Do I need to carry cash when shopping in Germany?

Yes, carrying cash remains advisable even in 2025. A significant number of shops, cafés, and restaurants continue to operate on a cash-only basis, and this payment preference is deeply embedded in German commercial culture. Although large supermarkets and mainstream retailers accept Girocard payments and, increasingly, credit cards, many smaller businesses, markets, and independent eateries may not accept cards at all. Having euros on hand — particularly when venturing outside large city centres — is always a sensible precaution.

What is the Girocard and do I need one?

The Girocard (previously known as the EC-Karte) is Germany’s most widely used non-cash payment method. It functions as a debit card linked directly to a German bank account and is accepted at most supermarkets, petrol stations, and large retail chains. When you open a German bank account, you will usually be issued a Girocard automatically. Having one will make everyday shopping substantially more convenient than relying solely on a foreign bank card.

If I buy a faulty product in Germany, what are my rights?

German law guarantees consumers a minimum two-year statutory warranty (Gewährleistung) on most goods, covering defects that emerge at any point during that period. When a fault is found, you are entitled to request a repair or a replacement; if neither can reasonably be provided, you may seek either a price reduction or a full refund. These rights apply to purchases made both in physical shops and from online sellers operating in Germany. Always keep your receipt or another form of purchase evidence.

Can I return something to a shop if I simply change my mind?

No automatic legal right of return or exchange exists for in-store purchases in Germany. Many retailers do offer voluntary return policies, but the terms are entirely at their discretion. The situation is different for online and distance purchases, where the Widerrufsrecht (right of withdrawal) gives you 14 days from receipt of the goods to return them without giving any reason. Always review a retailer’s stated return policy before making a purchase in a physical shop.

Are international supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl the same in Germany as abroad?

Both Aldi and Lidl were founded in Germany and continue to operate here in their original hard-discounter model — a deliberately limited product selection, largely own-brand goods, and a rotating programme of weekly non-food offers. The overall shopping experience closely resembles their international stores, though the product range naturally reflects German regional tastes and foods. Pricing is typically very competitive, particularly at the discounter level.

How do I complain about a retailer or trader in Germany?

Begin by raising the matter directly with the business, making sure to bring along your proof of purchase and any relevant supporting documents. If the issue is not resolved to your satisfaction, your Verbraucherzentrale (Consumer Advice Centre) can provide mediation and further guidance. General advice from the Verbraucherzentrale is typically free; more in-depth legal consultations or contract reviews may carry a fee of around €10–€50 (as of 2025 — check current charges directly with your local office).

Are there customs charges on international online orders delivered to Germany?

Yes. Any goods imported into Germany from outside the European Union with a value exceeding €150 are subject to customs duty, and VAT is charged on all imports regardless of their value (as of 2025). Purchases from sellers based within the EU are generally unaffected. Before completing any international order, always check the full landed cost including potential duties and taxes, and consult the German Customs Authority (Zoll) website for the current thresholds and applicable rates.