I recently concluded a negotiation for an outsourced cleaning contract in London. The supplier accepted our desire to pay the living wage.  

For those already supporting the living wage I wondered if your supply base had been included – those directly servicing your organisation and/or more broadly within their organisation.

Having seen firsthand the impact receiving the minimum wage can have on a friend I realise how important the living wage is.  As she said herself an extra £36 a week would make a huge difference to her ability to survive. As a procurement professional it feels like it’s something we could have a significant impact upon. I would, therefore, love to know your views and experience about involving purchasing and suppliers.

Thanks

Alison Smith

The Purchasing Coach

You may also like another blog I’ve written using business values as criteria for determining whether to pay the living wage or not.