Why more B2B companies offer invoices despite increased payment risks

Delayed payments and increased credit losses should lead to stricter terms. Yet, Nordic data shows that more and more B2B companies continue to offer invoicing and credit, in some cases to a greater extent than before.

Payment risks are increasing

Atradius Payment Practices Barometer shows that a large share of B2B invoices in Sweden are paid late and that credit losses are increasing. At the same time, many companies expect more customer insolvencies in the coming years.

Despite this, the majority of companies offer credit and many are increasing their credit limits.

Customer demands dictate payment terms

The explanation is that the buyer is in control. Business customers expect invoicing, flexible payment terms, and a checkout that works without manual intervention.

Gartner shows that B2B buyers increasingly want to purchase digitally and independently. Therefore, payment and invoicing must function directly in the purchasing process.

The Riksbank's perspective on payments

The Riksbank's Payment Report shows that Swedish companies value quick payment, low administration, and predictable cash flow more than the payment method itself.

The solution: smarter B2B payments

Modern B2B payment solutions allow for invoicing without bearing the entire risk yourself. Credit assessment and disbursement occur in real-time, which combines flexibility for the buyer with control for the seller.

What conclusions can we draw?

Invoicing will not disappear from B2B transactions. It must become faster, safer, and more automated.

Sources
Atradius, Payment Practices Barometer Nordics 2025
https://group.atradius.com/publications/payment-practices-barometer-nordics.html

The Riksbank, Payment Report 2025
https://www.riksbank.se/sv/statistik/rapporter/betalningsrapport/

Gartner, B2B Payments and Commerce
https://www.gartner.com/en/finance/insights/payments