The European E-invoicing Service Providers Association (EESPA) was established on 6th November 2011 and this week ratified the organisational statues and confirmed the purpose and objectives of the association. EESPA's key objectives include promoting interoperability and the creation of an interoperable eco-system, advocating and supporting the wide adoption of e-invoicing, representing the industry,engaging in public policy debate and recommending best practice within appropriate European forums, as well as providing services to its members.

Esa Tihilä has over 20 years' experience in global IT and services businesses, and before his appointment as Basware CEO this year ran the company's fastest growing business division - Automation Services - which includes e-invoicing services.

Esa Tihilä commented; "E-invoicing is an incredibly powerful tool in the current economy - enabling organisations to manage costs, strengthen supplier relationships and improve governance and compliance efforts. United by common regulations and trade arrangements, Europe needs to hear a similarly united voice from service providers in this industry. The European Commission wants to see e-Invoicing become the predominant method of invoicing by 2020 and I look forward to supporting this goal as Chair of EESPA".