Procurement messages contain business transaction information in a structured and machine-processable format. Procurement messages are used by organisations to share information in order and delivery processes, and they concern product catalogues, orders, order confirmations and deliveries. Procurement messages used in the Peppol network are practical examples of standardised messages.
Companies have traditionally used procurement messages in industry-specific and company-specific solutions. For example, groceries conglomerates use procurement messages in information exchanges with their suppliers.
One aim of the Real-Time Economy project was to introduce standardised procurement messages in state procurement. The aim was also to create a solution that is as open as possible and that companies of different sizes can use in their mutual business relationships in all sectors.
Digitalisation of procurement messages is essential if Finnish companies are to compete successfully with other Nordic and European actors. Digitalisation is a key component in the implementation of the EU-wide single market. It is of critical national importance for Finland that Finnish companies of all sizes can offer their services and products across the single market as flexibly and cost-effectively as possible.
The state introduced Peppol-format order and order confirmation messages from 1 April 2024 and will also require Peppol business documents from their suppliers
The state procurement will serve as a pioneer demonstrating the benefits of standardised procurement messages. The aim is to create an open solution that companies can use in their mutual business relationships, irrespective of their size and sector.
The State Treasury is Finland’s Peppol authority.
On the authority’s website, you can read more about, among other things, the tasks of the authority, the benefits of Peppol, joining the Peppol network and becoming a Peppol service provider.
Peppol authority website