Has the Covid-19 pandemic forever changed Public Procurement?

Covid-19 was likely the most significant challenge in the modern history of Public Procurement. The pandemic challenged basic procurement operating assumptions and required adaptation to a new and unprecedented reality:

• Just in time delivery wasn’t.
• The supply chain was broken.
• Traditional suppliers lacked capacity to meet demand.
• Supply, pricing & delivery were uncertain & volatile.
• Competition among public agencies for scarce supplies was a challenge multiplier.

The pandemic also represented an opportunity for Public Procurement Professionals to lead, collaborate and thrive despite unprecedented barriers to success.  An example-Los Angeles and San Diego Counties established an intergovernmental partnership and public-private partnerships with trusted suppliers to share resources and meet local demands. This example of Public Procurement collaboration and leadership was captured in a recent CAPPO webinar “Demystifying the Public Procurement Supply Chain”.

Can Covid-19 Public Procurement Leadership & Collaboration Momentum be Sustained?

The Public Purchasing Exchange (PPEx) is dedicated to continuing the positive procurement leadership and collaboration momentum that emerged from the pandemic by empowering public agencies to lead, collaborate and thrive. PPEx has established a technology hub that facilitates intergovernmental and public-private partnerships to share contracts, resources, and suppliers-locally, regionally, and nationally.

Los Angeles, Orange, and San Diego Counties are currently collaborating and leading a joint MRO solicitation. PPEx will serve as the technology hub and distribution channel for the contract award(s).

PPEx invites you to a technology hub demonstration on Monday January 9, 2022, from 1:00 to 5:00 PM in the San Diego Room, 2^nd floor. You are also invited to stop by booth 803 during the Supplier Exhibit on Tuesday January 10, 2022, from 10:15 to 2:00.