European firms reassess e‑signature providers over data‑privacy concerns

European businesses are reviewing the electronic‑signature platforms they use as they prepare for 2026. Companies cite stricter data‑privacy rules under the GDPR and eIDAS framework, a growing focus on digital sovereignty, and the desire to reduce reliance on non‑European providers such as DocuSign. Cost efficiency and long‑term flexibility are also driving the search for alternatives that keep data residency and compliance at the core.

At the same time, small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs) are being warned to scrutinise software licensing agreements. The shift to Software‑as‑a‑Service means firms pay for access, not ownership, and must understand clauses on service‑level guarantees, limitation of liability and data security. Experts advise negotiating stronger SLAs, clear penalties for downtime and realistic liability caps to protect against operational and financial risk.