The European event industry is undergoing a significant transformation in invoicing practices. With the introduction of PEPPOL (Pan-European Public Procurement Online), electronic invoicing is becoming the new standard across Europe.
This shift aims to streamline transactions, enhance security, and improve compliance.
What is PEPPOL?
PEPPOL is a standardised network that enables businesses to securely and efficiently exchange electronic documents, such as invoices. Using a common format, PEPPOL facilitates seamless communication between different accounting systems, reducing errors and administrative burdens.
Upcoming Deadlines Across Europe
Several European countries have set deadlines for mandatory PEPPOL e-invoicing:
- Belgium: From January 1, 2026, all B2B transactions between Belgian VAT-registered companies must use structured electronic invoices via the PEPPOL network.
- Germany: Mandatory B2B e-invoicing will be phased in, with large companies (annual turnover > €800,000) required to comply by January 1, 2027, and all companies by January 1, 2028.
- France: The e-invoicing mandate has been postponed. Large and mid-sized enterprises must comply by September 2027, and small businesses by September 2028.
- Italy: E-invoicing has been mandatory for B2B transactions since 2019.
- The Netherlands: While B2G e-invoicing is mandatory, B2B e-invoicing remains voluntary. However, businesses are encouraged to adopt PEPPOL to prepare for future mandates.
The European Union plans to standardise e-invoicing for cross-border B2B transactions by July 1, 2030, making structured electronic invoicing mandatory across all member states.
Benefits for Event Professionals
Adopting PEPPOL e-invoicing offers several advantages:
- Efficiency: Automated invoice processing reduces manual entry and speeds up payment cycles.
- Accuracy: Standardised formats minimise errors and discrepancies.
- Compliance: Ensures adherence to national and EU regulations.
- Security: Secure transmission of invoices protects sensitive financial information.
eventplanner.net is PEPPOL-Ready
At eventplanner.net, we're committed to staying ahead of industry changes. Our platform is already integrated with the PEPPOL network, allowing us to send invoices directly to businesses registered with their VAT number on the network. This ensures a smooth and compliant invoicing process for our partners.
Stay Ahead
Ensure your business is prepared for the upcoming changes in electronic invoicing. Register your VAT number on the PEPPOL network and experience the benefits of streamlined, secure, and compliant transactions.
Source: Photo: iStockphoto 2182110555
