Bavaria’s store closing law is stricter than in most other federal states, which is why even in a city of over a million like Munich, stores close no later than 8 p.m. So if you work until 6 p.m. and have plans or other commitments right after work, you’re often out of luck when it comes to shopping. The only alternatives used to be the stores at the main train station, Ostbahnhof, and Hackerbrücke. But since early October, City-M has provided another option that even lets you do your shopping in the middle of the night.
The concept of the 24/7 market
City-M is the newest branch of the Tante-M franchise. The franchise has actually made it its goal to bring local grocery shopping to rural areas with its 24/7 supermarkets. As a major city, Munich doesn’t really fit into the target audience—and yet you can now look forward to a branch in the city on the Isar. The concept is incredibly simple: From 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., you scan either your debit card or your City-M loyalty card at the entrance to gain access to the store.
Inside, you can shop at your leisure and check out yourself at the self-checkout counter at the end. If you want to visit the store between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., you’ll need a customer card. But the store isn’t just open from early morning to late at night—it’s also open on Sundays and holidays. So thanks to City-M, you now have a new way to go shopping anytime without having to miss out on fresh products.
Here’s what you’ll find at City-M
City-M has been open for business in Berg am Laim since October 1, supplying the neighborhood with groceries around the clock. It offers not only pre-packaged snacks—like those you’d find at kiosks and vending machines—but also fresh produce. Fruit, vegetables, dairy products, and even a bakery shelf await you at the supermarket. You’ll also find other everyday essentials here, such as pasta and oatmeal. In addition, City-M carries cleaning and laundry detergents as well as a small selection of cosmetics. So you’re well taken care of and can pop into the self-service market anytime on a whim.
