Innovative pan-public sector air programme will streamline supply chain
OGCbuying.solutions has today announced plans to deliver a pan-public sector air programme that will streamline the supply chain and improve efficiency in air travel procurement.
By contracting directly with the airline industry, this new approach will strip out additional supply chain costs and create more transparent supplier relationships. The programme will deliver the best possible air travel offering to the public sector and, through this closer relationship with the industry, identify further opportunities for improved services, working practices and cost savings going forward.
The initiative will build on the success of the existing Government Travel Group (GTG) air deal that is owned by Buying Solutions in partnership with Carlson Wagonlit Travel, which is due to expire in 2009. This innovative development will give the public sector much greater autonomy in its air travel arrangements.
In an example of successful collaborative working, several public sector departments with significant air travel requirements have committed to supporting the project. Led by Buying Solutions, this stakeholder group is currently engaging the airline industry and the receptive response indicates that this will be a highly successful and beneficial venture for all involved.
A competitive tendering process will be undertaken later this year and the programme is expected to go live in the middle of next year.
Derek Rothwell, Buying Solutions' Director Business Services Procurement, said today:
"This project represents innovation and new ways of working in the way the pubic sector buys air travel and I am very positive about the benefits the air programme will deliver. I am happy to be working alongside our collaborative partners in central civil government and the wider public sector whose commitment, knowledge and experience adds a great deal to the project".
