Meal vouchers could soon change for millions of employees. The reform announced by the government paves the way for use on Sundays, in a more flexible and broader framework, with a schedule yet to be specified. This is in any case the announcement of Serge Papin, Minister of SMEs, Commerce, Crafts, and Purchasing Power, who mentions a reform of the meal voucher, which employees will also be able to continue using for grocery shopping at the supermarket.
The essentials to remember
- All employees could use their meal vouchers on Sundays, including for grocery shopping.
- The reform still needs to be debated, with a discussion scheduled before the end of 2026 announced by the government.
- The continuation of using meal vouchers to purchase food products in supermarkets is also among the announced measures.
On Sunday, the meal voucher will be usable by everyone
The announcement marked a clear evolution in the use of meal vouchers. Until now, their use on Sundays remained regulated, but the reform presented by the government now intends to allow all employees to use them on that day, including for everyday food purchases.
This orientation responds to a consumption practice that goes beyond just having a meal during working hours. It broadens the scope of the system, traditionally associated with lunch, towards uses more aligned with family and domestic needs.
A reform under discussion
The government has not yet finalized the exact form of the text. However, the Minister in charge of Commerce indicated that the reform should be discussed before the end of 2026, without a definitive legislative schedule set at this stage.
Among the other proposed directions, the continuation of purchasing food products in large stores is prominently featured. This measure extends an already initiated evolution and reflects the desire to adapt the meal voucher to current consumption habits.
Grocery shopping will also be included
The possibility of using meal vouchers for grocery shopping is part of a logic of increased flexibility. The system would no longer be limited to dining or meals taken during the workday but could also be used to pay for certain food purchases, including on Sundays.
For employees, this change would alter the way they use meal vouchers, with usage less strictly tied to the office or company. For food retailers, it could also enhance the attractiveness of this payment method.
Implementation schedule
At this stage, the reform remains a political announcement and not a rule already applied. The precise modalities still need to be defined, including the form of the text, its exact scope, and its entry into force.
However, the government has given a clear direction: to modernize the system, expand its use, and secure its future in the coming months. The next steps will depend on parliamentary debate and regulatory decisions.
FAQ on the meal voucher usable on Sundays in 2026
According to the government’s announcement, yes, this possibility would be open to all employees.
The announcement has been made, but the reform still needs to be debated and specified before its implementation.
Yes, the reform also mentions the possibility of paying for certain food purchases in supermarkets.
No, at this stage it is a government orientation that still needs to go through discussion and adoption stages.
For now, there is no announcement of a change in the limit in the minister’s announcement.