Councils across Wales are transforming how public money is spent, using procurement not just to buy goods and services but to strengthen local economies, support small businesses, and cut carbon emissions.
From rethinking how social care contracts are delivered to pioneering digital access for schools and supporting local food producers, councils are using procurement in new ways to support communities and strengthen local economies.
Caerphilly County Borough Council has led two major projects that are changing how public money is spent in Wales. Its EdTech programme, developed with Welsh Government and all 22 local authorities, means every school in Wales now has fair access to digital learning technology. The council also led the Welsh Public Sector Collaborative Food Group, a £47 million partnership that helps 19 public bodies buy food together and support Welsh suppliers.
In Carmarthenshire, the Pentre Awel development in Llanelli is using procurement to deliver jobs, training and community benefits alongside construction. The council’s approach has created 76 jobs, 71 apprenticeships and more than £35 million in social value, while giving over 2,000 pupils the chance to learn new skills and explore careers linked to the project.
Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council redesigned its Home Care contract, worth £20 million a year, to improve services for carers and care providers. Smaller local contracts, Real Living Wage payments and advance funding have helped reduce waiting lists to single figures and made it easier for people to leave hospital when ready.
Cardiff Council’s Ardal procurement service, shared with Monmouthshire, Torfaen and the Vale of Glamorgan, manages £1.3 billion of combined spending. By working together, the councils are cutting duplication, supporting local suppliers and helping to meet net zero targets.
This work has been recognised at the GO Awards Wales, which celebrate excellence in public procurement, from innovation and collaboration to sustainability and social impact. Welsh councils performed strongly across several categories, reflecting the sector’s commitment to delivering value and positive outcomes for communities.
Cllr Jamie Pritchard, Deputy Leader of Caerphilly County Borough Council said:
“We are incredibly proud of our Procurement Team and the amazing work they do to deliver innovation, value, and real benefits for our communities.
“Winning three awards in one night is an outstanding achievement and a testament to their hard work, creativity and commitment to making the council a leader in public procurement. Huge congratulations to everyone involved!”
Councillor Mark Pritchard, WLGA Spokesperson for Finance said:
“Every pound councils spend can do more than just deliver a service. Across Wales, local authorities are finding new and creative ways to use that spending power to support people, boost local businesses and strengthen communities.
“It’s great to see that work recognised at the GO Awards. Whether it’s Caerphilly helping every school access digital learning, Carmarthenshire building social value into major projects like Pentre Awel, or Rhondda redesigning care contracts to better support carers and residents, these examples show the difference local government makes every day.
“Procurement might not be the most eye-catching part of council work, but it shapes so much of what people rely on, from the food in schools and care homes to the technology in classrooms. These awards highlight the positive impact councils have in communities across Wales, and the dedication of staff who work tirelessly to make that happen.”