The Council is committed to the Welsh Assembly Government’s “Opening Doors”- The SME Friendly Charter - by recognising and appreciating the very important contribution made by SME’s, Third Sector Organisations and other Minority Groups & by adopting a programme of actions to deliver a consistent approach to procurement across the public sector in Wales.

CPU acknowledge the importance of having access to a quality and diverse supplier base, recognising that suppliers and potential suppliers are the “bread and butter” of any procurement activity. Without suitable suppliers, we could not trade effectively and efficiently.

CPU appreciates that business is about people – talking to them, listening to them, understanding them. It is these business relationships that make contracts work.

CPU is keen to develop an active relationship with suppliers in order to gain knowledge and an understanding of the products and services available to us and to obtain valuable feedback and recommendation on perceived barriers to trade as seen by prospective suppliers.

The Council is committed to acting on feedback obtained in order to improve it’s services and promote a fair & level playing field for all it’s potential suppliers.

Aims & Objectives

• To be pro-active in organising various early market engagement initiatives e.g. Procurement Surgery Sessions, Meet the Buyer Events, Provider Forums, How To Tender Workshops.

• To promote and publish various sessions, workshops and events on the Authorities website and other relevant sites.

• To improve awareness of forthcoming contracting opportunities and promote information as to how the Authority procures their goods, works and services.

• To allow all potential suppliers to have equal opportunity to trade for the Council’s business and be able to compete on a level playing field.

• To establish a first point of contact and procurement link to business.