Can I become an RNIB supplier?
RNIB operates a preferred supplier list, this means that supplier selection and appointment are managed by a team of procurement specialists to ensure that we control and manage the number of suppliers we use to keep our supply costs low. RNIB continues to seek new suppliers who can offer a broad range of skills and dynamic solutions to meet our requirements, and our supplier selection is based on overall value for money criteria.
Whilst price is of course an important factor, we always consider the following criteria during selection:
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quality of the goods and services to be supplied
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sustainability of the supply chain
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accessibility of the goods and services to be supplied
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development potential of the supplier
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reliability of the supplier and their supply chain
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safety aspects of the goods and services and supplier
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security of the suppliers background
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timely delivery of all goods and services
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maintenance and after sales support
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overall service level that is being offered.
RNIB contracts are, generally issued to suppliers on a national basis, however there are times that a local arrangement may be more suitable. For large value expenditure our tender processes follow Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU) guidelines, however because of the way we are funded as a charitable organisation we are not bound by the EU legislation and we therefore use this as a best practice process.
We continuously review our supply base and strive to ensure that we can support the organisation in its diverse activities. We maintain a process of supplier rationalisation to ensure that we have a core of suppliers we can work with.
Opportunities do arise from time to time for new suppliers to be considered. However please be aware that whilst we are happy to receive enquiries from potential new suppliers, the procurement team will only appoint new suppliers when a specific requirement arises.
RNIB Payment Terms
Payment for goods received or services completed to the satisfaction of RNIB shall be made on the 28th of the month, following the month of the invoice (unless otherwise agreed) and is subject to the receipt of a correctly itemised invoice. Value Added Tax and VAT where applicable will be shown separately on all invoices as a net extra charge.
The supplier's invoice must quote the full purchase order number and be addressed as detailed on the front of the purchase order provided.
RNIB shall not be responsible for any delays in payment arising from failure to comply with these invoicing instructions.
Payment by RNIB shall be without prejudice to any rights or remedies available to it under any contract issued, or otherwise, and shall not constitute any binding admission by RNIB as to the suitability, quantity, quality or fitness for purpose of goods received or satisfactory performance and completion of the services by the supplier.
RNIB shall be entitled to withhold payment for goods and /or services pending receipt and acceptance of the goods and /or services.
What suppliers can expect from us
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To treat our suppliers fairly and impartially at all times.
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To pay our suppliers promptly and in accordance with our contractual agreements when products or services have been received. This is on the condition that suppliers submit a timely and accurate invoice that bears the purchase order or contract agreement number and matches the purchase order/agreement in all respects.
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To enter into all agreements, in the spirit of mutual cooperation, and keep communication channels open to discuss any opportunities our suppliers many be facing.
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To measure supplier performance against established benchmarks and resolve issues wherever they arise.
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To upload the highest levels of integrity in all our business relationships both internal and external to RNIB, and reject any business practice deemed unethical in any way.
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To comply with Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) guidance on professional practice, and contractual obligations at all times
What we expect from suppliers
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To create value within your own processes that you can pass on to RNIB. This should include ongoing programmes of efficiencies such as cost reductions, quality differentiation and process improvements.
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To regularly provide accurate metrics that allow us to measure performance and work with you to address any deficiencies.
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To ensure that commercially sensitive information about RNIB, that is not readily available to the public, remains confidential and undisclosed to others.
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We prohibit our suppliers from using RNIB name or logo for any purpose without written authorisation from our Communications Department. This includes the publication of photographs, endorsements, customer or client listings and press releases.
Contact us
Contact Procurement