Sure, many GPOs can help you save on food, but what about savings beyond food?
Entegra is the world’s largest food GPO, but that’s just one of the many product categories we contract.
We spoke to two professionals responsible for Entegra’s extensive portfolio of local and direct supplier partners to explain how clients can leverage savings in the non-food categories each time they buy. National Director of Business Development for Entegra’s Local and Direct Programs, Donna Schein, and Director of Data Management for Local and Direct Programs, Tony Eshleman, share insights on optimizing business performance with a broader network of suppliers and vendors.
Q: What product categories can members tap into via local and direct supplier programs and how does Entegra best meet their needs?
Donna Schein: In addition to savings on over 300 regional food programs, Entegra contracts with approximately 350 direct suppliers for products and service programs — from “Parking Lot to Rooftop” — to meet our clients’ needs. Our team works closely with clients to maximize opportunities through our extensive portfolio of contracts for savings in all operations departments, including food and beverage, facilities, administrative and environmental services.
Q: How does the Entegra team work with clients to identify local and direct savings opportunities?
Schein: From the very start, our experienced team coordinates to learn exactly what’s important to our clients.
Tony Eshleman: We align their locations with programs that provide value and savings. And the work does not stop there! We continue to work with clients, our supply management team and suppliers on additional contracting opportunities to strengthen relationships and bring our clients increased value.
Q: Supply chain complexities can be challenging. How does Entegra help members overcome these challenges?
Eshleman: Entegra works closely with our supplier partners to identify potential supply chain issues and develop solutions that best meet our clients’ needs. With an extensive breadth of contracted partners, we can provide each client with a multitude of options to overcome any supply chain challenge that comes their way.
Let Entegra evaluate your current purchasing program. No matter the size, we can create customized solutions to meet your performance goals.
July 31, 2022