Office supplies cost businesses hundreds or even thousands of dollars per employee every year. Understanding the purchasing models behind office supplies is the first step in saving.
Office supplies can be purchased in two ways:
- Non-contract
- Contract
Purchases made on a non-contract basis are comparable to impulse buying. When supplies are purchased on a non-contract basis, your office will buy the same product that is offered on the contract, but at a non-negotiated price.
Items that are purchased on a contract basis are items that are negotiated to the lowest rate possible and are often only available through group purchasing organizations.
By managing costs and purchasing through this model, your office can increase its potential savings.