Companies that implement socially responsible purchasing benefit from a stronger brand, higher margins, and lower costs. Research by Hackett Group reveals that 88% of organizations now view supporting diversity and social responsibility in their corporate culture as an important business goal.
Many organizations struggle to identify local and diverse companies or products that have been certified sustainable. According to a Gartner study, more than half (55%) of procurement leaders say they don't have specific strategic procurement requirements, and 40% admit they struggle to find qualified suppliers. But 81% of respondents to the Amazon Business 2024 State of Procurement report report socially responsible purchasing as a priority for their company's business strategy. The report is published by Amazon Business, a division of Amazon.com, which is the world's largest online retailer of goods and services. For more information, visit www.amazon.com/social-responsible-purchasing-state-of-the-market-report-for-2014-15. The UK online technology retailer Portus Digital has pledged to help businesses reduce the environmental impact of purchasing new electrical items. The focus is on eco-packaging, using 100% recycled and recyclable materials, and using carbon-neutral courier services and shipping options. Amazon Business helps businesses identify suppliers that meet predefined corporate social responsibility and sustainability goals, including ensuring that business buyers have no choice but to source from these businesses. Personalized messages can also be sent to buyers explaining the policy and how they help achieve the goals. By encouraging local and diverse businesses, including SMBs and minority-owned businesses, organizations highlight Preferred Sellers. This allows them to track spending and report on progress, allowing them to demonstrate the impact they are having on local businesses. It is essential that its own supply chain meets high standards.