The implementation of the Single Euro Payment Area (SEPA) is a major evolution for the payment industry throughout the Euro zone.

The three most popular payment instruments in the relevant countries -credit transfers, direct debits and cards- have been standardized by the European Payment Council and are going to replace progressively the old national avatars. The ramping up is likely to last less than five years. So, the industrialization of the payment processing is a very hot topic for the major European banks.

Moreover, SEPA is creating a level playing field resulting in increasing competition, especially in the card business, with the necessity for banks to find new business models based on co-branding, services and the development of new payment methods, mainly through the Internet or using mobile phones.

At EUROGROUP CONSULTING, our multi-local model gives us a broad European view on the various initiatives which are flourishing in the payment landscape. From our comprehensive knowledge of what is at stake based on the numerous assignments we have done both at the national and cross border level, we think we are well positioned to advise banks as well as the other payment stakeholders (corporate, public administrations,..) on these matters.