Get ready for a potential shopping revolution in Quebec! The province is on the brink of a significant shift in retail hours that will impact every corner of Quebec.
For those with a standard work schedule, weekends are often dedicated to running errands. But here's the catch: Quebec has historically been quiet on Sunday evenings when it comes to shopping.
And this is where it gets interesting: the Quebec government has just revealed a game-changer. Starting March 11, 2026, non-food retailers across Quebec will have the option to remain open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days a week. This is a bold move, and it's all part of a one-year voluntary pilot project, giving stores the freedom to embrace or decline the extended hours.
Quebec's Minister for the Economy and Small and Medium-Sized Businesses, Samuel Poulin, shared his insights: "Entrepreneurs have been seeking more flexibility with their business hours, and we're answering their call. This pilot project allows them to cater to their customers' needs better. It's a significant step towards deregulation, and we stand by it."
The pilot primarily targets non-food retailers, including shops, boutiques, hardware stores, markets, and similar establishments. Grocery stores and pharmacies are exempt, as they already function under distinct regulations, and some businesses with special exemptions are also excluded.
Fun fact: Quebec is one of the last places in North America to regulate store opening hours, making this change even more noteworthy.
This development has been in the works for some time. A previous pilot in October 2025 allowed retailers in Gatineau, Laval, and Saint-Georges to stay open until 8 p.m. on weekends. Today's announcement takes it a step further, replacing those city-specific projects with a province-wide initiative, offering extended hours and including retailers from every municipality in Quebec.
The official regulation will be published in the Gazette officielle du Québec on February 25. The fate of these extended hours beyond the pilot year will be determined by how businesses and shoppers embrace this change.
But wait, there's more! This move is sure to spark debates. Is it a step towards a more consumer-friendly Quebec, or does it put unnecessary pressure on retailers? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments!
