With the constant rise in prices and the impact of inflation on the purchasing power of the French, the question of the food budget is becoming more and more worrying. Meal vouchers, which were initially intended for use exclusively in restaurants, have also become an option for grocery shopping at the supermarket. However, this extension sparked strong reactions and generated controversy regarding the use of meal vouchers.
Initially, the government announced that the use of meal vouchers for food products in supermarkets would end in 2023. This decision was taken with the aim of promoting the purchasing power of the French in response to the economic crisis caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. However, faced with pressure from parliamentarians who believed that this measure would further worsen inflation, the government finally decided to extend the use of meal vouchers for food shopping until 2024.
This decision provoked an intense debate between the different stakeholders concerned. Restaurateurs, who consider that the extension of meal vouchers to supermarkets distorts the initial system, have strongly criticized this measure. They believe that this contributes to further weakening the catering sector which is already hard hit by the crisis.
On the other hand, some parliamentarians and employee representatives welcome this decision by emphasizing the importance of preserving the purchasing power of the French in a difficult economic context. They consider that meal vouchers are an essential tool for employees who encounter financial difficulties and seek to reduce their food expenses.
Beyond this controversy, it is essential to take into account the real impact of meal vouchers on the purchasing power of the French. Although they represent significant financial assistance, it is important to emphasize that their amount is often insufficient to cover all of a household’s food expenses. Therefore, it is essential to put in place additional measures to support the French people most affected by inflation.
In conclusion, the use of meal vouchers for food shopping at the supermarket remains a subject of debate. While some consider that this extension helps preserve the purchasing power of the French, others see it as a distortion of the initial system. In all cases, it is important to seek complementary solutions to deal with growing inflation and support the most economically fragile households.