17 Jun Response to States’ purchasing policy
Jonathan Creasey, chair, Guernsey Retail Group:
“One of the retailers involved raised this matter with The Guernsey Retail Group some time ago and we collectively met with the States of Guernsey’s purchasing team to discuss the general tender process and points raised around this specific case.
Whilst we understand and respect the States’s responsibility to secure the best possible value for the Island, which includes both service and cost, this outcome has naturally raised concerns amongst on-Island suppliers.
In response, we have held constructive meetings with the States with a view to running seminars to help Guernsey businesses better understand and navigate the government tendering process for such contracts.
As we explain in our Manifesto for Guernsey Retail, there needs to be some guiding principles regarding purchasing and procurement which take into account the overall benefit to Guernsey through using local suppliers wherever possible. Every pound spent with on-Island suppliers supports Guernsey and our economy.
We are also highly concerned by the underlying message that government is conveying to other businesses, and the wider community.”