Scotland Excel joins Buy Social Scotland Pledge.
Scotland Excel, the centre of procurement expertise, has recently joined a new national initiative known as The Buy Social Scotland Pledge, led by Social Enterprise Scotland. This initiative aims to strengthen opportunities for social enterprises within the country’s supply chains, bringing together corporate businesses, SMEs, academic institutions, and public sector bodies who are committed to integrating social enterprises into their procurement practices.
Stephen Brannagan, the director of customer and business services at Scotland Excel, expressed his delight at signing up to the Buy Social Scotland Pledge. He highlighted the positive work already being done with the third sector and the commitment to further support through events like the recent Supported Business event. This event brought together public and third sectors to establish valuable connections and share success stories, demonstrating the positive impact on communities.
Chris Martin, CEO of Social Enterprise Scotland, welcomed Scotland Excel to the Buy Social Pledge, emphasizing the organisation’s dedication to fostering social and environmental impact through procurement practices. Integration of social enterprises into the supply chain showcases Scotland Excel’s commitment to driving positive change and promoting a more inclusive economy across Scotland.
The Buy Social Scotland Pledge includes five key commitments:
- Recognise Fair Work principles
- Make a commitment towards a Net Zero Policy
- Promote Social Enterprises within our own organisation’s procurement and supply chain
- Agree to prompt payment to suppliers
- Commit to reporting annual spend with Social Enterprises
One of the supported businesses within Scotland Excel’s signage framework is Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company in Erskine, which recently re-joined for the latest generation. During a site visit to Scotland’s Bravest, Scotland Excel officially signed up to the Pledge.
Robert Lappin, assistant director at Scotland’s Bravest, expressed their delight at being part of the framework once again, highlighting the significant role it played in establishing their new enterprise in 2019. He emphasized the social impact and achievements made for veterans and individuals with disabilities or from disadvantaged backgrounds, calling on councils to support Scotland’s Bravest and other social enterprises to drive fairness and progress in society.
