The Impact of the Liberalisation of Opening Hours on Small Retail Enterprises

This paper aims to analyse the effects of deregulation in the retail sector, with specific reference to the Marche Region (Italy). Recent regulatory intervention has abolished any restrictions on shop opening hours, in addition to which being open on Sunday has been allowed. This action seems inconsistent with the characteristics of the Italian distribution system, which is composed of large numbers of small-sized shops and family-run businesses. In the past, the issue of deregulating the opening hours of shops was the focus of an important debate that attracted various academic contributions, with consideration given to the possible effects, as analysed from the perspectives of the different stakeholders. However, little empirical evidence is available. In this study, the focus is on socioeconomic effects, which are examined through a survey of 534 owners of small shops. The results show that economic advantages for small retailers are limited, while they view the large-scale retail trade as a greater threat. Furthermore, there are major negative social effects.