Mayor Krause has now revoked the latter part of this regulation.
Munich – Munich Mayor Dominik Krause (Greens) has temporarily suspended the controversial ban on beer sales for kiosks in the popular university district. Starting this Friday, the five affected kiosks and one pub will be permitted to sell bottled beer again after 10:00 PM. “Young people are disproportionately affected by poverty; many simply cannot afford to go to pubs and bars. Affordable alternatives like kiosks are therefore important for fostering community, regardless of one’s budget,” Krause explained, justifying his decision.
Sales Ban in University District Lifted from Friday
The recently introduced ban had caused significant discontent. It was initially implemented in response to ongoing complaints from residents in the area around Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU). They had reported nighttime noise, piles of trash, and various disturbances caused by intoxicated individuals. One resident compared the conditions to those of the notorious “Ballermann” party strip in Mallorca. The district is one of Munich’s most popular nightlife areas, with numerous pubs and bars.
However, the mayor made it clear that suspending the ban is conditional. “The interests of the residents are completely justified. It is unacceptable when sidewalks are littered with broken glass and courtyards and building entrances are misused as toilets.” He is demanding that kiosk operators take greater responsibility for the cleanliness and quiet in the extended vicinity of their businesses. The kiosk owners had previously expressed their frustration with the rule, even citing fears for their livelihoods.
Curious Crisps Ban Remains in Force
The decision is an attempt to find a compromise between the differing interests. Krause left no doubt that the ban could be reinstated if the situation does not improve. “That’s why my appeal to those celebrating in the area is this: if everyone is a bit more considerate, we can achieve a good coexistence.”
Unlike other German states, Bavaria has stricter rules for late-night kiosks. The Shop Closing Law (Ladenschlussgesetz) restricts the range of goods kiosks can sell after 8:00 PM. Only those who also operate a pub are permitted to sell bottled beer, non-alcoholic drinks, tobacco, and confectionery. The City of Munich emphasized: “Crisps and hard liquor are not part of this privileged product range.” On this matter, Krause stated: “Unfortunately, there’s nothing we can change about that.” (tkip/dpa)
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