Collaborative Food Procurement Programme

Frequently Asked Questions

Why has this programme been set up?
The National Audit Office, in their 2006 report 'Smarter Food Procurement in the Public Sector', predicted that the public sector could make £224 million in savings up to 2011 by procuring food collaboratively. The programme has committed to delivering these savings.

What does this programme hope to achieve?
The programme will promote collaboration in food procurement by providing public sector procurement colleagues with information, guidance and good practice examples of how public sector organisations can work together to procure food, catering services and kitchen equipment more effectively.

What timescale is the programme working to?
The focus for the collaborative food procurement programme is CSR07 (April 2008 - March 2011), however the programme is ensuring that through its delivery the legacy will be continued long after this period.

Who is involved in the programme?
Key organisations engaged in the programme:

• Department for Children, Schools and Families
• Office of Government Commerce
• National Offender Management Service
• Ministry of Defence
• NHS Business Services Authority
• NHS Supply Chain
• NHS Purchasing and Supply Agency
• Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs,
• Food Standards Agency
• School Food Trust
• Local Authority Caterer's Association 
• National Audit Office
• Buying organisations, including PRO5 and Buying Solutions.

Representatives from these organisations are involved at each stage of the project.

Who is the programme aimed at?
Public sector food procurement and buying professionals, suppliers and PBOs.