Study into lessons learnt by SMEs from the switchover to the euro - call for tenders
The European Commission's Enterprise DG has issued a call for tenders to carry out a study into the lessons learnt by small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) from the switchover to the euro. The purpose of the study is to review preparations made for the introduction of the euro for SMEs, to draw conclusions from this and to make the necessary recommendations. The work will involve studying a representative sample (in both geographical and sectoral terms) of SMEs from countries in the euro zone, via questionnaires, surveys and visits to businesses. The aim of the study is to produce, within eight months of contract signature, an appropriate analysis of the situation as a result of which it will be possible to: - understand the main difficulties and drawbacks encountered by SMEs both while preparing for the introduction of the single currency and during the switchover period, and the solutions applied; - list some good systematic procedures for preparing the switchover to the single currency; - define the different parties involved in the preparation, the extent to which they were involved and their specific role in the process; - estimate the costs for each of the different ways of preparing for the euro; - make relevant recommendations on the matter. The final version of the study is to be submitted in the form of a practical guide for economic operators in the Member States which have not yet adopted the single currency and those in countries applying for membership.For further information, please contact: European Commission Directorate-General Enterprise rue de la Science 27 Office 4/54 B-1049 Brussels Tel +32-2-296-5871 Fax +32-2-295-2154 E-mail: Entr-finance-sme@cec.eu.int To see the full details of the call, please consult the following web address: http://ted.publications.eu.int/static/doccur/en/en/110978-2003.htm(opens in new window)