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eProcurement

We are in the process of implementing a new ordering system enabling us to do business with our suppliers electronically.

This will become our preferred method of doing business and allow our staff to order the goods and services required for the day-to-day running of our services.

The key feature will be a hosted website with a shopping basket facility.

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) will be able to create an online catalogue within this facility while companies which already online facilities will be able to link their existing website to our system.

This method will enable all our suppliers to compete electronically as equals.

The hosted website is from @ukplc, who provide this service to Bristol City Council, Devon County Council, Dorset County Council and Plymouth City Council, while other authorities are actively considering it for their requirements.

In the future, trading with us through this system will be a requirement in all appropriate contracts.

A key advantage of the system is that once you have signed-up you can trade on the internet with us and other public sector organisations which use the @ukplc solution.

It also allows you to trade with other businesses and private individuals in the UK, Europe and across the globe.

Other advantages of doing business via this method include the following:

  • Low set-up costs and efficiency savings
  • Electronic receipt of orders and invoices
  • Elimination of errors from re-keying older information
  • Minimum computer requirements as an email address and internet access are all that is required
  • Retention of your existing market with us and new market opportunities with other councils and schools in the region
  • The ability to offer internet shopping to all existing and new customers
  • The elimination of postal costs and delays as orders are received and invoices are delivered electronically
  • The ability to set up and maintain your own online catalogue with a shopping basket facility

For further information download @ukplc's Twenty Ways Supplier Brochure and it's eProcurement Guide For Suppliers.

Interested parties can also register directly via @ukplc's online Supplier Trading Centre.