Quebec to launch pilot projects for stores to remain open weekend evenings

This summer, the Quebec government will roll out three pilot projects aimed at testing extended opening hours for select commercial establishments.

The initiative, set to last for a year, would allow policymakers to evaluate the effects of longer weekend business hours on both workers and consumers, as well as increase the competitiveness of the retail sector.

These three pilot projects will be rolled out in Gatineau, Laval, and Saint-Georges to authorize non-food businesses located in these cities to open their doors to the public until 8 p.m., rather than 5 p.m., on Saturdays and Sundays.

“With the growth of online commerce, the consumer habits of Quebecers have changed,” said Christopher Skeete, Minister for the Economy, Minister Responsible for the Fight against Racism, and Minister Responsible for the Laval Region.

“To remain competitive, our businesses must be able to adapt their opening hours and days of access to welcome more consumers who are committed to buying Quebec products,” he added. “With these pilot projects, our government is evaluating a new solution to offer our local businesses a business environment that is among the most stimulating and conducive to their success.”

Why Gatineau, Laval, and Saint-Georges?

According to a news release on Wednesday by the Office of the Minister Delegate for the Economy, Minister responsible for the Fight against Racism and Minister responsible for the Laval region, the three locations were selected for various reasons.

“The city of Gatineau was selected for one of the pilot projects due to its geographical location on the Ontario border,” they said.

As for the city of Laval, it was chosen given its urban character and its position as a “supra-regional retail trade hub.”

The city of Saint-Georges, selected for its local economy representative of regions far from major urban centers.

Food establishments, pharmacies, and certain businesses that benefit from an exemption from the law are not affected by these pilot projects, they said.

“At the end of these pilot projects, a report will be published to present the results and determine whether permanent measures should be adopted,” they added in the news release. “Which would be implemented throughout Quebec if necessary.”