Retailers are hoping Sunday opening hours can be relaxed after a 'difficult' sales period over the last year.

But as they wait for a Government move on the issue, shopkeepers are pinning their hopes on the re-launch of the 'Buy Bermuda' campaign to get Island shoppers back in the aisles.

The second phase of the scheme kicks off on Monday and Chamber of Commerce president Charles Gosling called on fellow retailers to back the campaign with bargains and good service to lure residents.

"I think it's essential," said Chamber president Charles Gosling. "I think Bermuda's retailers need to really be supportive."

And while he admitted that retail sales from last year were not as high as he would have hoped, chairman of the Retail Division of the Chamber George Grundmuller said: "Last year was very difficult. At the end of the day, it was not good for retail, but it could have been worst."

Although Government did not contribute any funds for this year's campaign, which cost $49,000 to run last year, various companies in the private sector contributed in order to bring the project to life.

While he said that great bargains will continue to be offered to shoppers in order to mobilise consumer spending, Retail Sales executive committee member Somers Cooper promised locals and tourists alike will receive a good value for their dollar.

"People will be offered good customer service and good deals on returned merchandise," he said. "People are still shopping overseas. We like to bring the level of awareness among the community. There are great things to be purchased locally."

Mr. Gosling said he hoped that restrictions would be lifted on Sunday shopping so that additional shopping days could be added into the year. Executive vice-president of the Chamber Diane Gordon praised local retailers for the continuous efforts they have made to attract shoppers, and said it was unfair for people to criticise the Government for not making a grant this year. "Without the Ministry of Finance, we would not have gone through with the last phrase."

And along with Ms Gordon encouraging retailers to join the Chamber of Commerce, she appealed for the community to support the campaign.