While Czech stores over 200 square meters will remain closed for the May 8 holiday, German retailers are preparing for an influx of Czech shoppers seeking retail therapy across the border.
Dresden’s popular Kaufpark shopping center has been actively courting Czech customers through a social media campaign, promoting its 100 stores, restaurants, children’s attractions, and free parking. The center has become so popular with Czech visitors that their language and license plates dominate the weekend scene.
A Czech employee at the center describes May 8 as apocalyptic, with Czech shoppers making up nearly the entire customer base. “Germans are at work while Czechs have the day off. Anyone wanting to shop comes to Germany because we’re open,” she explains. Early birds arrive before 9 AM, though the center doesn’t open until 10.
The shopping frenzy has become an annual tradition, with German retailers currently featuring an extensive selection of Mother’s Day gifts and sweets at prices lower than those in the Czech Republic, ahead of the upcoming celebration on May 11.
However, not everyone embraces this shopping tourism. The same employee notes she wouldn’t choose to spend her holiday shopping, especially during nice weather. “Germans managed without shopping last Thursday and didn’t rush to Czech stores when you were open,” she points out.