For long, summer- and winter sales in the German retail sector were subject to strict rules. It was just until a few years ago that sales on seasonal goods such as textiles and sporting items were limited in terms of product range and and time. This has changed in 2004 when a new law ordered that retailers can offer sales whenever they want and never mind the product. However, winter and summer sales continue to exist, as consumers got accustomed to it and expect price reductions at a given time of the season.