School district imposes restriction on vending machine snacks, set to end sales after 8:00 PM?
In the heart of Munich, particularly around the Maxvorstadt district near Ludwig Maximilian University, a new set of regulations has been enforced to curb late-night activities at kiosks. The aim is to reduce excessive noise, trash, and alcohol-related problems that have been disturbing local residents.
Since August 2025, kiosks in this area must stop selling chips by 8 p.m. and beer by 10 p.m. This stricter enforcement of the existing Bavarian shop closing law, which generally requires stores to close by 8 p.m., is part of an effort to limit late-night gatherings at kiosks.
The motivation behind these restrictions is clear. Late-night sales at kiosks have been a significant source of revenue for some operators, but they have also been the cause of numerous complaints. The KVR, the local authority, aims to prevent people from being tempted to reach for snacks late at night, as reported by the Munich "Abendzeitung."
However, the new regulations have sparked debate. Five kiosks near the university are affected, and many see the rule as unfair since gas stations can still sell beer and snacks as "travel necessities." This perception of regulatory inconsistencies has created tensions, with some residents and kiosk operators expressing concerns about fairness.
Operators like Shivan Beseh have experienced significant revenue losses and survival concerns due to the regulation, as his peak sales are after 10:00 PM. Kiosk operator Al Bezihi Nechirvan covers his chips with a roller blind at 8:00 PM and can't sell beer to night owls after 10:00 PM due to the regulation.
On the other hand, the authority's emphasis on enforcing the law has shown initial successes in improving the local conditions. Munich has experienced improvements in noise, litter, and alcohol-related disturbances, according to the KVR. The school and semester holidays, which have been ongoing since early August, may have contributed to these improvements.
The area around the Ludwig-Maximilians-University is a popular nightlife spot with many bars and eateries. A student who often parties in the university district prefers chips over sweets and finds them a better snack for late-night hunger, especially when paired with beer. Stefan Moedl, a resident, finds the time limit for chips and beer to be "total nonsense."
The KVR clarified that the requirement is not new, and they reminded operators of the current legal situation. The authority also approached a restaurant that significantly contributed to the local conditions and prohibited it from selling alcohol for takeaway after 10:00 PM. Ole Dietzmann, another resident, speaks of "clientelism for a few long-established Munich residents."
In summary, the restrictions aim to mitigate public disturbances caused by late-night kiosk activity while following the Bavarian shop closing regulations. However, the debate over economic impact on kiosk owners and perceived regulatory inconsistencies continues.
