In many cities, shops, supermarkets and shopping centres now open every day of the week, sometimes around the clock. Some people would like a return to a weekly day on which most businesses close. Although I understand the appeal of this idea, I largely disagree with it, as it would reduce people's freedom and harm many workers and businesses.
Admittedly, a shared day of rest has some attractive features. When shops are closed, more people are free at the same time, which makes it easier for families and friends to spend time together. Shop workers, who often have to work at weekends, would be guaranteed at least one day off that coincides with those of their relatives. A quieter day each week might also encourage people to spend time outdoors or take part in community activities instead of shopping.
However, the disadvantages would be considerable. Modern societies are highly diverse, and people work very different patterns. A nurse who works long shifts during the week may rely on the weekend to buy groceries, and a compulsory closing day would make life more difficult for such people. Many workers, particularly students, actually prefer weekend shifts because they fit around their studies. In addition, small shops and cafes often earn a large share of their income at weekends, and closing for a whole day could threaten their survival. In multicultural societies, choosing a single day of rest would also be problematic, as different religious communities observe different holy days.
A better approach would be to protect workers' rights directly, for example by guaranteeing that nobody can be forced to work every weekend and that staff receive at least two days off each week.
In conclusion, although a shared day of rest might strengthen family and community life, compulsory closure would restrict choice and harm many people. Protecting employees' time off is a fairer solution.