Year-on-year, the many, long lines at the supermarket check-outs in Luxembourg are proof that many of us rely on very last-minute shopping before Christmas dinners or New Year’s Eve parties.

This year though, with the 24th and 31st of December falling on Sundays, shops could open until 1pm according to law – in principle.

However, so far 22 communes and the association of hairdressers have requested a derogation. The Economy Ministry approved opening times extensions for both days until 4pm.

The law would have the extension to go until 6pm, but out of consideration for the workers the ministry only allowed shops to open until 4pm. The OGBL union intervened in this case, the assistant general secretary Christophe Rewenig said.

All major shopping places are among the municipalities that have received a derogation. These include Luxembourg City, Esch-sur-Alzette, Mersch, Ettelbrück, Diekirch, Clervaux and Weiswampach. However, some smaller communes have applied only for December 24.

The major shopping centres in the capital will open from 8am to 4pm on both days.