On the other hand, companies buying from the euro zone will be able to compare prices more easily. Either way, this will sharpen competition. Even exporters used to quoting in sterling may come under pressure to quote in euro from customers in the euro zone. Some multinationals that operate in Europe plan to use the euro to simplify their accounts and finances. They might want their UK suppliers to use the euro too.
Most banks offer euro accounts for businesses.
Most retailers do not expect to use the euro in the UK from 1999. Even these will not expect many euro customers until euro cash is available in 2002. Subsidiaries owned by a parent company based in the euro zone may find that its Group s accounts will change to the euro. These companies should examine their position carefully.