Small and special retail shops

Last updated: 10 December 2024

Retailers trading as a small or special retail shop must apply for a certificate. 

Small retail shops 

Small retail shops are defined as:

  • owned by up to six people
  • operating no more than four retail stores
  • Having up to 25 people working at the same time across all stores (excluding apprentices).

Small retail shops can:

  • sell any goods other than motor vehicles
  • trade 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

Special retail shops 

Special retail shops:

  • are considered necessary for emergency, convenience or recreation goods
  • trade 6.00 am – 11:30 pm every day of the year.

Special retail shops include: 

  • pharmacies
  • garden nurseries
  • hardware and home improvement shops
  • newsagencies and bookshops
  • video shops
  • art and craft shops
  • souvenir and duty-free shops
  • shops at sports venues
  • boating shops
  • motor vehicle spare parts shops, and
  • shops at international standard hotels.

Further detail about special retail shops and the products they can sell is covered in s7 of the Retail Trading Hours Regulations

Lodging an application for certificate 

Applying for a small or special shop certificate is free.

Online

Complete and submit you application online:

Downloadable forms 

Download and complete your application form:

Send your application by:

Print