Meal vouchers, these precious everyday allies, offer much more than restaurant meals. Their use in supermarkets is an often overlooked opportunity which allowsoptimize your food budget. However, this possibility is not eternal and it is crucial to find out about the deadlines so as not to miss this chance.
With the end of the year approaching, now is the perfect time to take stock of your spending habits and take full advantage of these benefits before it's too late. Discover how to maximize the use of your meal vouchers by shopping intelligently.
Extension of the use of meal vouchers in supermarkets
The National Assembly recently adopted a measure aimed at extend the use of meal vouchers in supermarkets until the end of 2026a decision which must still be validated by the Senate. This extension concerns approximately 5.4 million French employees who use these vouchers daily for their meals.
Originally, meal vouchers were only intended to finance employees' meals, but faced with rising prices, their use was extended to supermarkets to help consumers. This debate on expanding the use of meal vouchers highlights the need for a global reform of the system. Proposals have emerged to adjust the face value of securities and the usage ceilings, in order to better respond to current economic challenges.
Evolution and economic impact of meal vouchers
Since their creation in 1967, meal vouchers have undergone a significant transformationmoving from simple paper coupons to dematerialized cards. This change made them easier to use and contributed to their growing success.
In 2023, these titles have become a major economic pillar, with 5.4 million users generating nearly 14 billion euros for the French economy. This evolution demonstrates their adaptation to modern needs while supporting various economic sectors.
Planned reforms and implications for consumers
Calls for a complete reform of the meal voucher system are increasing, particularly under the leadership of Romain Vidal of the CNTR, who insists on the urgency of adapting this system to current economic realities. Among the proposals is the increase in the contribution of companies, from 55% to 70%which would reduce the financial burden on employees.
In addition, the introduction of a double ceiling, distinguishing between uses in restaurants and supermarkets, would make it possible to better control expenses. These adjustments could benefit the 5.4 million beneficiaries, by improving their purchasing power and simplifying the rules of use. Senator Laurence Garnier plans to launch discussions on these reforms from 2025thus marking a major development in the meal voucher system.
