Local authorities in Wales could save millions through the use of online auctions, it’s been claimed, following the success of an e-auction pilot by two councils. Swansea Council, working with neighbouring Neath Port Talbot, says it could potentially save STG650,000 over the next five years on the back of a contract signed via the online auction process. The contract, worth around STG1.3 million a year, will see a Welsh company supply tinned and dried foods for the councils’ school meals services, social services and council-owned leisure centres. Bidders for the contract had to meet a series of non-price criteria before they could take part in the auction. Three companies then participated in the auction, competing to see who could provide the best quality at the best price. “Councils have done a lot of ground work preparing for e-auctions,” said Councillor Russell Roberts, Welsh Local Government Association spokesman on procurement. “Millions of pounds of savings could be made across the public sector in Wales through this approach.”

Posted: 10|13|05 at 7:19 am. Filed under: UK News.