IFOL release sixth annual report on Accounts Payable Automation Trends
Birmingham, UK – June 25th, 2025 – The Institute of Financial Operations & Leadership (IFOL), in partnership with Restore Information Management, has today released the 2025 Accounts Payable Automation Trends report. This independent global study uncovers how finance teams are navigating the shifting landscape of AP automation in 2025.
Manual inefficiencies persist despite increased access to automation tools
Now in its sixth year, the report reflects insights from a global community of AP and finance professionals across sectors. The findings reveal growing pressure on teams, with many struggling to overcome persistent inefficiencies – even as automation tools become more accessible.
Notably, 63% of respondents now spend more than 10 hours per week on invoice processing, a significant increase from last year. 66% still manually enter invoice data into ERP systems, pointing to stalled progress in core areas.
Meanwhile, adoption of AI is gaining traction. Usage has quadrupled year-over-year as teams look for smarter ways to manage data, reduce errors, and detect fraud.
“This year’s report confirms what many finance leaders already sense – manual processes are holding teams back,” said Louise Graham, COO and Head of Institute at IFOL. “The opportunity for transformation is clear, but execution requires more than just tools. It takes focus, leadership, and a practical path forward.”
Gaps in compliance and the push for strategic AP
The research also highlights continued gaps in compliance readiness and a growing desire to reposition AP as a more strategic function – yet many teams remain bogged down by the basics.
Stefan Chetty, Digital Services Director at Restore Information Management comments: “We’re proud to support this eye-opening research. The findings highlight a clear opportunity for change, with the majority of finance teams yet to fully embrace automation. Having worked with numerous finance teams to build a compelling business case for change, we’ve witnessed how the adoption of automation enhances supplier satisfaction and boosts efficiency.
We’re pleased to support this ongoing conversation and help pave the way for meaningful finance transformation.”
The full report is now available to download. It includes data-driven insights, benchmarks, and practical guidance for finance leaders looking to accelerate their AP automation journey in 2025.
Access the full report here.
Press contact: marketing@acarp-edu.org
About Restore Information Management
Restore Information Management is the leading UK owned provider of information management services, specializing in secure physical document storage, digital transformation, and data management. Our approach helps businesses protect, transform, and access their information seamlessly and efficiently. With a focus on innovation and customer-focused solutions, Restore Information Management helps businesses streamline and transform their information management processes to stay competitive in today’s fast-paced market. Visit www.restore.co.uk/informationmanagement.