This year 2024, Chile experiences some National Holidays “XL”, extending the celebrations over several days. Friday, September 20 is a special day, since, unlike other years, it is a holiday that falls between the non-negotiable days of September 18 and 19, and the weekend that follows. This “sandwich holiday” allows the national celebrations to continue, although with certain differences in the way businesses operate.
September 18 and 19, as stipulated by Law 19,973, are mandatory and non-waivable holidays for trade workers. This means that most of the supermarkets and shops had to remain closed during these dates. The legislation protects the right of shopkeepers to rest and enjoy the festivities, which leaves many families planning their shopping in advance for barbecues and traditional celebrations.
However, this Friday, September 20th is a holiday ordinary business hours, which means that there are no legal restrictions on the operation of shops. This means that most supermarkets will be open again, although with the special opening hours that usually apply on holidays or weekends. Therefore, those who need to stock up will be able to do so without problems during this day.
As for specific schedules, the television networks supermarkets have announced their plans for September 20, 21, and 22. SMU, which includes brands such as Unimarc, Mayorista 10, Alvi, and Súper 10, will be open during its regular hours on weekends and holidays. The same will apply to Censosud supermarkets, which operate under the Jumbo and Santa Isabel brands. This will give consumers the flexibility to shop without worrying about unforeseen closures.
Walmart, which handles the supermarkets Líder, Express de Líder, SuperBodega aCuenta and Central Mayorista have indicated that they will be open on Friday 20 and Saturday 21 September during their normal hours, until 9:00 p.m. This information is particularly relevant for those who plan to shop during these days, as they will have enough time to purchase the necessary products.
