European Payment Report 2020

The European Payment Report (EPR) describes the impact late payments have on the development and growth of European businesses. The insights are based on a survey from about 10,000 executives across 29 European countries covering 15 industry sectors. The full report was published in September 2020.

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Late payments put business survival at risk

Over 43% of European businesses report increased risk of late or non-payments from their debtors, a sharp rise from 16% in 2019. This has put pressure on cash flow, threatening survival for 35% of companies, especially in industries like real estate and construction.

Widening payment gap increases liquidity stress amid COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated payment delays across Europe, with the average payment gap widening from 6 days to 14 days in B2B transactions. SMEs were particularly affected, with 49% accepting longer payment terms to maintain relationships, despite increasing liquidity pressures.

Recession looms as businesses cut costs

With 57% of businesses predicting a recession, cost-cutting measures are widespread. Companies are also adopting more cautious approaches to debt, with 35% aiming to reduce borrowing as part of their strategy to navigate economic uncertainty.

Other editions of the report:

European Payment Report 2024

The 2024 report is based on insights from 9,255 executives across 25 European countries. This years' findings shows corporate cost-cutting at a four-year high despite growing economic optimism. Businesses are losing more than a quarter of the working year (73 working days) chasing late payments.

Country Snapshots White Paper 2023

The Country Snapshots White Paper provides detailed country-specific insights on payment behaviors across Europe. Discover how inflation, payment gaps, and sustainability challenges vary between regions, offering an in-depth supplement to the main European Payment Report.