That’s why she believes the new Buying Better Food and Drink framework from CCS has been introduced.
To be supplied by Entegra, a subsidiary brand of global services provider Sodexo, she said it aimed to make the purchasing process ‘simpler and more transparent for public sector buyers’, as well as helping to support ethical sourcing and boosting value for money.
“The new agreement is all about simplicity and accessibility,” she said.
“The Buying Better Food and Drink agreement offers a one-stop-shop for everything, from fresh produce to specific dietary items, with one single payment process. By registering on the platform, buyers can access a diverse range of suppliers, from local farms to global distributors, streamlining both the sourcing and payment processes.
“One of the framework’s standout features is its built-in transparency. Every product listed complies with the Government Buying Standards for Food and Catering Services, ensuring that buyers can make choices aligned with safety, welfare, and sustainability requirements.
“We’ve made sure that prices are regularly reviewed to ensure value for money, and in time, we’ll provide comparative data on things like soil quality and carbon footprints,” Karen says.
“This gives buyers a clear view of their purchasing impact, helping them make better, more informed decisions.”
Clare O’Brien, from Entegra, adds: “Public sector food procurement isn’t just about price per kilo. It’s about choosing the right products at the right time and we’ll be helping buyers spot seasonal opportunities and make cost-saving substitutions that also reduce carbon emissions.”
She said the platform could even accommodate unique product requests from buyers, subject to vetting, making it both flexible and comprehensive.
“We’re ready to engage with buyers across the public sector to discuss how the framework can be tailored to meet their specific needs and objectives. With no joining fee and no obligation to purchase, the platform is designed to make food procurement easier, more transparent, and more sustainable.
“By working together, we can ensure the framework delivers maximum value, offering flexible solutions that support your goals while maintaining a focus on cost-effectiveness and ethical sourcing. Let’s start the conversation.”