Procurement has always been about getting the right goods and services at the right price, but in today’s world, it’s now about much more than that. Increasingly, organisations are expected to deliver social value through their supply chains, whether that’s supporting local communities, promoting sustainability, or improving diversity and inclusion.
At Accelerate, we believe that procurement is one of the most powerful tools an organisation has to create real, measurable social impact. But where do you start? Here are our top tips for embedding social value into your procurement strategy.
1. Start with a clear definition of social value
Before you can deliver social value, you need to define what it means for your organisation. Is it about creating jobs in disadvantaged areas? Reducing your carbon footprint? Supporting SMEs and social enterprises? Align your definition with your wider business values and objectives: this will help guide your decision-making throughout the procurement process.
2. Embed social value in the tender process
Make social value a core part of your tendering and evaluation criteria, not just a ‘nice to have’. Ask suppliers how they will contribute to your social goals, and ensure these commitments are measurable. Weight social value meaningfully in scoring, not just as a token gesture. You’ll be surprised how creative and proactive suppliers can be when given the chance.
3. Prioritise local and ethical suppliers
Working with local businesses, diverse suppliers, and social enterprises is a straightforward way to deliver impact. It supports the local economy, creates jobs, and often brings more agile, innovative partnerships. Don’t assume that smaller suppliers can’t meet your needs- many can, and with the right support, they can thrive.
4. Build long term partnerships
Social value isn’t just a one-off box to tick: it’s best delivered through ongoing, meaningful relationships. Work with suppliers to track outcomes over time, share successes, and adapt where needed. A collaborative approach delivers far more than purely transactional arrangements when considered over a period of time.
5. Measure and report on impact
If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it. Define key metrics from the start and hold suppliers accountable. This could include the number of apprenticeships created, reduction in emissions, or community investment levels. Regular reporting not only ensures delivery but helps you to communicate your organisation’s impact clearly and credibly.
Delivering social value: how Accelerate Procurement can help
Social value isn’t just good for communities, it’s good for business. It builds stronger supplier relationships, enhances reputation, and supports long term resilience. At Accelerate, our team of experienced procurement consultants help organisations design and deliver procurement strategies that don’t just meet targets but that make a real difference.
Ready to make your supply chain work harder for society? Get in touch with Accelerate today to see how we can help.