It is important that customers too demonstrate demand for SEPA benefits and urge their banks to make SEPA a reality. Small and medium-sized companies should aim for the benefits of SEPA. Conclusion Europe has come far in terms of integration. The Single Market for labour, goods, services and capital was fully established 16 years ago with the Maastricht Treaty.
This Single Market now requires a single market for payments. The European retail payment systems will be integrated by means of common standards, common payment instruments and common business rules and conditions. The SEPA project is an integral part of this process. I highlighted four main benefits for end-users, which include SMEs.