Mandatory e-invoicing in the skilled trades: between digital transformation and operational pressure

Benno Quade, CEO of OneQrew GmbH, explains why the discussion surrounding a possible postponement of mandatory e-invoicing is understandable, but will not stop the structural digitalisation of business processes:

“The call for a possible postponement of mandatory e-invoicing is understandable. Many skilled trades businesses are currently facing considerable economic and organisational pressure. Software providers also continue to encounter differing interpretations of technical standards and integration requirements in certain areas. At the same time, postponing the deadline by another year is unlikely to resolve the fundamental challenge.

The digitalisation of invoicing processes is not a short-term regulatory measure, but a structural step towards more efficient, faster and legally compliant business processes. E-invoicing is coming – regardless of whether mandatory implementation takes effect in 2027 or 2028. For skilled trades businesses, this means that the remaining time should be used proactively. Businesses that are still using software with limited support for essential requirements such as e-invoicing capability, digital document processing or modern interfaces should not see the current discussion as a reason to wait, but as an incentive to critically review their existing IT infrastructure.

From a technological perspective, there are no longer any fundamental obstacles. Modern software solutions for the skilled trades can receive and create e-invoices in compliance with applicable standards and integrate them into existing processes. The decisive factor is therefore not whether implementation is technically possible in principle, but whether it is carried out consistently within the business. This involves more than e-invoicing alone. Introducing modern software platforms also creates the foundation for automated accounting processes, digital workflows, AI-supported assistance systems and significantly greater efficiency in day-to-day administration.

Against this backdrop, the remaining time should be used now rather than waiting for a possible extension of the deadline. Businesses that invest early not only meet regulatory requirements, but also increase their speed, reduce administrative work and improve the quality of their service. This is where the sustainable added value of digitalisation lies.”