Saarland’s ‘Bread Button’ Debate Pits Small Businesses Against Green Policies
The Association of Crafts and Entrepreneurs of Saarland (GVS) has expressed concern over proposals to increase parking fees and abolish the 'bread button' in five major Saarland cities. The move, advocated by the German Environmental Aid (DUH), has sparked debate over the balance between environmental and economic interests in city centers.
GVS chairman Timo Lehberger has emphasized the importance of the 'bread button' for revitalizing city centers, enabling quick and convenient local shopping. He warns that making it harder for customers and businesses to access city centers could lead to further decline if parking fees increase and this tool is abolished.
GVS advocates for customer-friendly mobility concepts such as digital parking guidance systems, park-and-ride offers, and free short-term parking zones. The association appeals to cities and municipalities to not introduce blanket fee increases without thorough impact assessment and prior discussion with entrepreneur associations. It criticizes DUH's 'socially just transport transition' argument, stating it overlooks the social reality of many small businesses and service providers.
Currently, the German Environmental Aid and GVS are in discussions about changing parking fees in cities like Saarbrücken, Völklingen, Neunkirchen, Homburg, and St. Ingbert. The proposed abolition of the 'bread button' is a key point of contention, with no final agreement reached as of late 2025.
GVS chairman Timo Lehberger concludes that environmental and economic interests are not mutually exclusive. He calls for 'smart solutions' that balance quality of life and the economic viability of city centers, ensuring they remain vibrant and future-proof. The ongoing discussions aim to find a compromise that addresses environmental concerns without stifling local businesses and commerce.
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