On 1 November 1996, the new Act Governing Shop Hours entered into force. Since then, retailers have been able to better adjust their opening hours to supply and demand. The hours during which shops may be open have been extended (Monday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Saturday from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.). In March 1997 the Head Association of German Retail (HDE) presented an initial assessment of the impact of the new Act: Of the 2,500 retailers surveyed, well over 80 percent had changed their opening hours. Consumers, however, are waiting for things to shake down. In some communities no general agreement has yet been reached as to when shops should be open.