Washroom and Mats

About the buyer

YPO is a purchasing organisation owned and governed by a consortium of thirteen local authorities across Yorkshire and North West England. A joint committee of member councils oversees its work, meeting on a set timetable. Suppliers register through YPO's own tendering portal to compete for places on its framework agreements. Competitions span categories from ICT and energy to facilities, food and catering, and construction. Appointed suppliers then serve YPO's customer base of schools, councils and public bodies without further re-tendering. Surpluses return to member authorities and customers instead of outside shareholders, since YPO is self-funded.

UK local government drives £140bn in annual procurement, led by social protection (£66.6bn) and education (£57.1bn).

Over the past 5 years, most of YPO's contract awards have been in software and information systems, financial and insurance services and business services.