Views sought on OIC procurement strategy

Orkney Islands Council is seeking views on its proposed procurement strategy for the next five years.

The strategy covers how the Council will go about acquiring goods, services and works from third parties - ranging from the purchase of routine supplies or services to the formal tendering and placing of contracts for large infrastructure projects.

The Council spends approximately £67 million per annum on goods, services and works.

Of this £67 million, approximately 41% is spent on Orkney businesses or on companies that have a presence in Orkney (but with no head office in Orkney).

The strategy document sets out the procurement priorities of the Council in the form of a number of commitments.

These reflect both national policies and local priorities and will provide a firm foundation upon which the Council can continue to build and deliver improved procurement performance.

Karen Greaves is the Council’s Corporate Director for Strategy, Performance and Business Solutions. She said: “Orkney Islands Council is committed to sustainable economic development in Orkney. We are conscious that our procurement decisions and activity – in basic terms how we do business with other businesses - must take account of the social, economic and environmental impact they have on the people and communities of Orkney.

“The strategy aims to meet the needs, not just of the Council, but of the business community in and outwith Orkney. It has been aligned to the Council Plan 2023-2028 and Council Delivery Plan 2023-2028, as well as the changing procurement agenda, the current financial climate, Climate Change and Net Zero.

“We’d encourage all those with an interest in these matters to make their views known.”

The consultation documents can be accessed below and the consultation closes on Monday 31 July.