Toolkit to Help Local Suppliers Compete for Big Business

SMEs could get a boost to their business with the launch of a toolkit to encourage the use of local supply chains for renewable energy and low carbon retrofitting projects.

The Institute for Sustainability’s new Local Procurement and Supply Chain Toolkit provides detailed information to help SMEs benefit from the increasing focus on local supply chains by large buyers. The toolkit also gives both public and private sector procurers practical steps to apply best practice in their organisation and guidance on how to make it easier for local suppliers to work with them.

“There are increasing reasons for large buyers to think more locally, and smaller businesses who previously felt they wouldn’t be considered or wouldn’t have the right offer should think again.” said Ian Short, Institute for Sustainability Chief Executive.

“Local and smaller suppliers in many cases are more flexible and innovative, allowing them to be more responsive – and contrary to perception are often able to compete on price too. In addition, they often have a lower carbon footprint because of reduced travel and local sourcing solutions.”

The Local Procurement and Supply Chain Toolkit is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

It is available free of charge at: http://procurementtoolkit.instituteforsustainability.org.uk