will you still be able to do your shopping with it in 2024?

As November 23 approaches, the corridors of the French National Assembly are buzzing with activity.

A bill, presented by the groups of the presidential majority, aims to extend the use of meal vouchers outside restaurants.

The stakes are high : extend until the end of 2024 the possibility for more than five million employees to use their meal vouchers to pay for all their food shoppingand not just ready-to-eat meals.

This measure, initially temporary and put in place in August 2022, was due to end on December 31, 2023. But today, the prospect of an extension is emerging and sparking a lively debate, reflecting the economic and social tensions in the country.

Restaurant vouchers: Restaurateurs facing a worrying reform

One of the most controversial aspects of this proposal is the potential impact on restaurant owners.

Meal vouchers, originally designed to offset the cost of eating out, constitute a significant portion of restaurant revenues.

The relaxation of the rules for using meal vouchers is maintained until December 31, 2024.

???? The meal voucher can thus be used to pay for food products that are not directly consumable.

More info ⬇️

— Government (@governmentFR) November 16, 2023

With the possibility for consumers to use these titles in supermarkets for a wide range of food products, restaurateurs, such as chef Thierry Marx, are expressing their concern.

They fear a significant shortfall, estimated at 200 million euros, and unfair competition in favor of large stores. These concerns raise the question of the balance between support for employees and protection of the interests of restaurateurs.

French social policy in question

This reform also highlights the complexities of the French social system. The government, represented by figures such as the Minister for SMEs and Commerce, Olivia Grégoire, and the Minister of the Economy, Bruno Le Maire, is in favor of extending the use of meal vouchers.

However, this position is seen by some as excessive state intervention in consumption habits.

The question arises: does the meal voucher system, which links the State, businesses and employees, really promote financial autonomy or does it perpetuate dependence on paternalistic structures?

The consequences of limiting restaurant vouchers for employees

For the millions of employees who use meal vouchers, this proposal could represent a significant financial advantage, particularly in a context of inflation.

However, the restriction announced for January 2024, limiting the use of titles to certain fresh and directly “consumable” products, raises concerns.

Some employees are wondering about the future of this system and are even considering giving up meal vouchers if the restrictions prove too restrictive. The reform therefore raises important questions about the fairness and accessibility of food aid for employees.

While the National Assembly prepares to debate this bill, the future of meal vouchers in France remains uncertain.

Between the concerns of restaurateurs, questions about French social policy and the implications for employees, this reform could well mark a significant turning point in the management of food aid in the country.