My Attorney Is A Robot

In a significant affirmation of traditional norms, a German court has recently upheld the age-old ban on Sunday commerce, ruling that even fully-automated supermarkets must cease operations on Sundays, in line with the 1,700-year-old Christian tradition of a day of rest. This landmark decision involves Tegut, a regional supermarket chain known for its pioneering automated stores called ‘teos’, which are operational across Germany and recognized for their innovative retail approach.

The court’s ruling, which echoes the principles enshrined in the German constitution since 1919, emphasizes the universal importance of maintaining Sunday as a non-working day. This verdict came after a lawsuit by the service sector union Verdi, which argued that the continuous operation of these stores on Sundays could set a precedent that might compel human employees in the retail sector to forfeit their own days of rest. Verdi maintains that the day off is essential for workers to spend time with family and rejuvenate, a sentiment upheld by the state of Hesse’s highest administrative court.

Tegut’s automated outlets, described by board member Thomas Stäb as “basically walk-in vending machines,” offer daily necessities such as bread, milk, and healthcare products. These stores, designed to resemble oversized barrels with grass roofs, operate without human staff, except for routine maintenance checks. Despite their popularity for providing convenient shopping options, the court has mandated these stores to close on Sundays, mirroring the restrictions imposed on traditional commerce.

The imposition of Sonntagsruhe, or Sunday Rest, on these robotic stores highlights a broader cultural and legal commitment to a day of tranquility, which extends beyond mere trading restrictions to include bans on loud music and the use of heavy machinery. This practice reflects a deep-seated ethos of rest and quietness that is cherished in German society.

The court’s decision not only impacts Tegut’s revenue—given that Sundays account for about 25-30% of their weekly sales—but also sparks a wider debate on the relevance of such strict closures in today’s dynamic retail environment. While some stakeholders see these regulations as outdated, others view them as crucial for preserving a day of communal rest and spiritual reflection.

As a result of this ruling, Tegut has paused the expansion of its automated stores in Hesse, though they remain operational in other states with different local laws. The government of Hesse has signaled a willingness to consider legal exceptions for automated stores, indicating potential legislative changes that could accommodate modern retail innovations while balancing traditional values of rest. This ongoing debate suggests a possible shift in the enforcement of Sonntagsruhe as societal needs evolve, reflecting both the challenges and opportunities posed by technological advancements in the retail sector.