Streamlining Public Sector Food Procurement

When it comes to food procurement, especially in the public sector, finding the right balance between cost, quality, and sustainability can feel like a juggling act.

That’s why the new Buying Better Food and Drink agreement has been introduced – to make the purchasing process simpler and more transparent for public sector buyers, all while supporting ethical sourcing and boosting value for money.

In this post, we’ll explore how the agreement is helping buyers navigate these challenges more effectively, with insights from Karen Beech of Crown Commercial Service and Clare O’Brien from Entegra, the named supplier on the agreement.     .

A Simpler, More Sustainable Way to Buy

For Karen Beech, commercial lead for food and drink at Crown Commercial Service (CCS), the new agreement is all about simplicity and accessibility.

“The Buying Better Food and Drink agreement offers a one-stop-shop for everything, from fresh produce to specific dietary items, with one single payment process.”

By registering on the platform, buyers can access a diverse range of suppliers, from local farms to global distributors, streamlining both the sourcing and payment processes.

Transparency and Trust Built In

One of the framework’s standout features is its built-in transparency. Every product listed complies with the Government Buying Standards for Food and Catering Services, ensuring that buyers can make choices aligned with safety, welfare, and sustainability requirements.

“We’ve made sure that prices are regularly reviewed to ensure value for money, and in time, we’ll provide comparative data on things like soil quality and carbon footprints,” Karen says. “This gives buyers a clear view of their purchasing impact, helping them make better, more informed decisions.”

Expert Guidance from Entegra

Clare O’Brien, from Entegra, brings additional expertise to the Buying Better Food and Drink agreement, having spent over a decade advising public sector buyers. Clare’s team is instrumental in helping users optimise their procurement strategies by leveraging market data to make their budgets stretch further.

“Public sector food procurement isn’t just about price per kilo,” Clare explains. “It’s about choosing the right products at the right time. We’ll be helping buyers spot seasonal opportunities and make cost-saving substitutions that also reduce carbon emissions.”

Clare highlights that the platform can even accommodate unique product requests from buyers, subject to vetting, making it both flexible and comprehensive.

Ready to Shape the Future of Food Procurement?

We’re ready to engage with buyers across the public sector to discuss how the framework can be tailored to meet their specific needs and objectives. With no joining fee and no obligation to purchase, the platform is designed to make food procurement easier, more transparent, and more sustainable.

By working together, we can ensure the framework delivers maximum value, offering flexible solutions that support your goals while maintaining a focus on cost-effectiveness and ethical sourcing. Let’s start the conversation!

To find out more or to register, click here.