Lucerne cantonal parliament amends shop-closing law, referendum planned

Political uncertainty due to the failed legislative initiative to extend opening hours for self-service shops and petrol station shops until 10 pm. The SVP and SP announced a referendum; 3,000 signatures are considered certain. This leads to planning and investment uncertainties for retail centres such as Agrovision Burgrain, which is closing four farm shops and laying off 8 employees.

A narrow majority in the Cantonal Council in favour of the amendment, but immediately afterwards the parties announced the referendum. For cost-covering operation, 8-10 locations with unlimited opening hours would have been necessary. The uncertainty led to the closure decision and layoffs. The organic farm and restaurant remain in place.