Meal vouchers, the quiet engine of the French economy

Workers in suits, freelancers engrossed in their screens, and local regulars parade at the counter, brandishing their meal vouchers to pay for varied lunches, ranging from gourmet sandwiches to traditional, comforting dishes. This scene, so commonplace it often goes unnoticed, illustrates an essential economic mechanism. Meal vouchers, true pillars of professional lunches in France, embody a socio-economic dynamic thoroughly examined in a recent report by the National Commission of Meal Vouchers (CNTR). In partnership with consulting firm C-Ways, it revealed on a Monday that meal vouchers contribute €14 billion to various sectors, with traditional and fast-food restaurants capturing the largest share at €8.6 billion. This significant financial influx, primarily benefiting the restaurant sector, underscores the crucial role of meal vouchers in supporting businesses, especially amid current economic challenges.

However, the use of vouchers is not limited to restaurants. With the 2022 amendments addressing concerns over the cost of living, holders can now purchase non-perishable items like flour and pasta, a change extended until 2026 that raises concerns among restaurateurs. Yet, the study reassures that most supermarket spending remains focused on ready-to-eat foods, adhering to the program’s original intent. The report also outlines the broader implications of the system. It supports approximately 100,000 jobs, with a risk of losing 40,000 jobs if the program were discontinued. This impact is particularly significant in rural and suburban areas, where local businesses heavily rely on these financial flows. Moreover, the State benefits significantly, collecting around €3 billion annually through various taxes and contributions, highlighting the program’s multifaceted economic influence.

In light of these findings, the CNTR recommends several adjustments to improve the system’s efficiency and fairness. These proposals include revising the daily voucher amount to better align with the actual cost of a balanced meal, estimated at €12 to €19, as well as differentiated caps for restaurant and supermarket spending. The CNTR also suggests expanding eligibility beyond regular employees and gradually increasing the face value of vouchers while urging employers to increase their contribution to funding these vouchers. This in-depth analysis of the meal voucher system not only highlights its financial importance but also proposes ways for its evolution, aiming to balance the needs of employees, businesses, and the broader economic framework in which they operate. The suggested changes reflect a proactive approach to ensuring the sustainability and relevance of this essential support in an evolving economic context.