New branch procurement service
The branch procurement service is now live for branches to use! You can access the service on the branch service portal here.
This service has been developed to support you, so you can dedicate your time to supporting our members.
Approved supplier arrangements
Please visit the ‘Approved supplier and advice by category area’ to view available arrangements and information. In the initial phase we have included core offerings that we know can make a difference to branches. These include mobile phones, multi function devices (MFDs), computer equipment and furniture. This is an area we will expand on based on branch feedback, so please get in touch if you feel there are other categories we can explore for all branches. We will prioritise based on the potential to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
We seek ‘value for money’ which means that we consider a balance of whole life costs, the quality of the product or service as well as sustainability (impact on people and planet). We can’t guarantee that items under the branch procurement service will be the cheapest and you may be able to find cheaper items, however we know that cheapest isn’t always best and can be to the detriment of workers and the environment.
We will save you the hidden cost of the time and effort in sourcing and negotiating deals. As they are our central suppliers, we will have more leverage than branches buying individually.
Branch procurement toolkit
In the resources area you will find a new branch procurement toolkit. This contains a wealth of information in succinct form. We have created this document to help guide you through the procurement process and provide best practice information.
You’ll find:
- 8 tips for successful branch procurement – implementing these recommendations will ensure good governance and practices.
- Quotation Toolkit to help you when you are not buying though the branch procurement service.
- Template letters.
- Due diligence checklist.
- Template branch procurement procedures.
- Contract management guidance.
- What to watch out for in supplier agreements and lease purchase agreements when not buying through the branch procurement service. Lease agreements can be particularly tricky, so please read through this. If you need to lease a printer or MFD we strongly recommend you use our supplier as we have clear terms agreed, so you won’t be tied in long term or get nasty surprises.
Branch procurement procedures
We recommend that branches adopt branch procurement procedures and have provided a template that can be used for this purpose. This will ensure a clear framework and governance of procurement processes.
Sustainable procurement
You’ll find guidance on sustainable procurement as well as UNISON’s Responsible Procurement Policy and Supplier Code of Conduct in this area.
Using the branch procurement service
Please read through the terms and conditions pages before using the branch procurement service.
Get in touch
Please get in touch with us if you have any questions: procurement@unison.co.uk.