Starting 1 February, more than 130 employees at Colruyt supermarkets in Luxembourg will have the option to work eight-hour shifts on Sundays, accompanied by higher hourly pay than legally required.
This change follows the adoption of the company’s first-ever collective agreement, signed in collaboration with the Luxembourg Confederation of Christian Trade Unions (LCGB), the only trade union represented at Colruyt.
The new measure aligns with the Luxembourg government’s decision to extend Sunday working hours in the retail and craft sectors from four to eight hours–a move that was sharply criticised by trade unions. However, Colruyt has embraced the change, offering employees greater flexibility and financial incentives.
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Under the agreement, employees can now choose to work eight consecutive hours on Sundays, allowing them to alternate shifts and reduce travel time. Mickael Costa, deputy union secretary of the LCGB’s Services and Trades union, described the change as a “step forward in the organisation of work,” emphasising that Sunday shifts remain voluntary.
To encourage participation, the collective agreement includes an 80% pay increase for Sunday work – 10% above the legal minimum. Additionally, employees will receive a 40% pay increase for night shifts starting at 7pm, rather than the legally mandated 10pm. The agreement, valid from 1 February 2025 to 31 December 2027, also introduces extra days off based on seniority.
Colruyt operates six stores in Luxembourg, located in Gasperich, Strassen, Mersch, Sanem, Pommerloch, and Wemperhardt. The Pommerloch and Wemperhardt locations are open every day of the year except for three public holidays.
