Press Releases

OGC launches new framework for purchasing financial reports

The Office of Government Commerce (OGC) is today announcing a new framework deal to provide access to financial reports for all public sector purchasers, which could potentially lead to savings of around 75%.

Equifax, a leading provider of business credit and financial information, will operate this framework agreement for three years with an option to extend for one year. Equifax's financial reports provide analysis of the financial position of potential suppliers, which enable purchasers to make an informed assessment of their financial viability.

Two types of reports can be downloaded via the Internet as part of the service: a brief report (the Equifax Full Report) providing background information and summary financial data on the entity requested with a concluding risk rating; and a detailed assessment report (the Equifax Optima Report) which also includes additional financial and other information relevant to an understanding of the entity's financial standing and risk.

A public sector volume discount of up to around 75% will apply based on the total number of reports purchased over time.

This service deal is available from January 2008 and public sector purchasers wishing to make further enquiries about the framework should contact Equifax's Ryan Peacey on telephone 01274 759886 or email ryan.peacey@equifax.com.

Note to Editors

About OGC

The Office of Government Commerce (OGC) is an office of HM Treasury, responsible for improving value for money by driving up standards and capability in procurement, from commodities buying to the delivery of major capital projects, maximising the effective use of 60% of Government spending and a £30 billion property estate.

A new Government strategy launched in January 2007, Transforming Government Procurement, highlighted the central importance of procurement in delivering high-quality public services and best value for money.  OGC is tasked with delivering this transformation, and with driving up standards and procurement capability across central Government.  The OGC will do this through:

• Setting procurement standards and monitoring performance and capability;
• Developing a cadre of skilled procurement professionals across Government;
• Driving value for money through collaborative procurement;
• Playing a stronger role in the successful delivery of major projects;
• And improving management and use of the Government estate.

Media Contact:
Michael Dunning, Media Relations Manager
T: 020 7271 1318
F: 020 7271 1345
M: 07771 815245
E: michael.dunning@ogc.gsi.gov.uk