As of August 1, 2023, receipts will no longer be automatically printed in France. However, these physical receipts will continue to be provided in certain situations. Here are which ones.
The disappearance of the paper receipt, this is a project discussed for years by the government. While this controversial measure was initially to come into force on January 1, 2023, its introduction was delayed to April 1, 2023… before being once again postponed to August 1, 2023.
Now all the lights are green. As a reminder, this provision is part of the fight against waste and the circular economy (under Law No. 2020-105 of February 10, 2020). As the government points out, the idea behind this measure is to fight against dangerous substances (in particular the chemical inks used on receipts) and for put an end to the consequent ecological impact of these tickets.
The end of receipts in force from August 1, 2023
For good reason, no less than 30 billion tickets are printed each year in France. The vast majority end up in the trash within seconds of being edited. Waste when you know that the paper used is not recyclable. In fact and from the end of the month, will no longer be printed:
- receipts produced in sales areas and in establishments open to the public
- tickets issued by machines
- bank card receipts
- vouchers and promotional or reduction tickets
There are a few exceptions
If you wish to have a physical ticket, you will have to expressly request it from the seller. Attention, however, there are exceptions. Indeed, receipts will continue to be automatically and systematically printed in these specific cases:
- receipts relating to the purchase of so-called “sustainable” goods where the existence and duration of the legal guarantee of conformity are mentioned (domestic appliances, computer equipment, smartphones, etc.)
- credit card receipts for canceled operations or relating to products financed via credit
- tickets issued by machines whose conservation and presentation are necessary to benefit from a product or service (such as the guarantee)
- When weighing with a hand instrument (fruits and vegetables for example in supermarkets)
In addition, remember that there are already alternatives to conventional receipts. Indeed, you can receive your purchase receipt by SMS, by email, by message in your banking application, by QR Code or directly on the seller’s dedicated app (as is the case with certain large retailers ).