Meal Card Giants Fined ₺15.8M for Illegal Commissions and Unfair Deductions

Turkey’s Ministry of Trade has imposed a total of ₺15.8 million in fines on five of the largest companies in the meal card industry, citing excessive commission rates, unjustified deductions, and regulatory violations. These companies, which dominate nearly 90% of the market, were found guilty of breaching laws that protect restaurants and small food businesses.

Violations Sparked by Complaints and Regulatory Review

According to officials, the ministry launched the investigation following complaints about violations of the “Regulation on Principles and Rules in Retail Trade.” The probe revealed a series of systemic irregularities that placed unfair burdens on restaurants:

• Excessive Commissions: Meal card providers were charging more than the legal 6% limit, inflating rates under disguised labels.

• Unjust Early Payment Fees: Despite delays in payments, firms imposed additional deductions under the pretense of “early payment service fees.”

• Transferring Employer Discounts to Restaurants: Discounts offered to employers were being unfairly passed onto restaurants, reducing their revenue margins.

As a result, administrative fines were issued against the five dominant firms operating in this space.

💬 “Meal Card Companies Have Become Our Partners”

Ekonomim reported statements by Sayit Karabağlı, President of the Turkish Federation of Restaurant and Pastry Shop Owners, who voiced strong criticism of the industry’s practices. Karabağlı said that companies had bypassed the 6% legal commission cap by renaming fees as “service charges,” pushing effective commission rates to as high as 10%.

“Meal card companies have essentially become partners in our business. For every 100 lira spent, they’re taking 10,” Karabağlı stated.

He emphasized that these practices are placing undue pressure on already struggling food and beverage businesses, especially during a time of economic uncertainty and rising costs.

🛠️ Regulatory Action Marks Turning Point in Sector

The ministry’s decision to fine major players is seen as a landmark move to enforce fair competition, protect small businesses, and ensure transparency in the meal card sector, which has long been criticized for its opaque fee structures and dominance over food merchants.