Commercial Strategy 2026 to 2028
We spend over £1.4 billion annually through third-party contracts, making procurement one of our most powerful tools for delivering public services, supporting the local economy, and ensuring every pound delivers best value.
In a time of rising demand, financial pressures, and major structural change, this strategy sets out a clear and confident direction for how we can meet these challenges and unlock new opportunities.
The strategy marks a step-change in our approach. It introduces a more structured framework that embeds commercial thinking across our organisation to enable better services, stronger supplier relationships, and greater resilience.
Our vision
We will deliver the best possible services and outcomes for Kent residents, securing Best Value at the least possible cost. We will achieve this through smart, innovative, and efficient procurement that supports the local economy and strengthens our communities.
To deliver meaningful outcomes over the next three years, we will focus on the following strategic priorities:
- Deliver financial benefits and return on investment - we will improve cost control, challenge inefficiencies, and explore income generation opportunities. By embedding commercial thinking early in the commissioning cycle and negotiating smart contracts, we aim to maximise the impact of every pound spent.
- Strengthen supplier management and partnerships - we will take a structured and consistent approach to managing supplier relationships, focused on performance, collaboration, and long-term planning. We will invest in commercial skills and work with our partners to align procurement and service delivery.
- Support local economic growth and wider public value - we will simplify procurement processes and engage early with Kent-based businesses, SMEs and VCSEs. Our contracts will deliver measurable social and environmental benefits, but we will make sure these are aligned with Kent’s priorities and supporting our communities.
- Ensure compliance and transparency - we will uphold high standards of governance and integrity, manage supply chain risks, and ensure procurement processes are open, fair, and proportionate. This includes aligning with legislation and using data to monitor compliance and drive improvement.
For our suppliers, this strategy shows our commitment to early engagement, fair access to opportunities, and clear expectations.
For our residents, it is about providing assurance that public money is spent wisely and supports Kent’s communities.