Suppliers
The RCA spends around £47m each year on goods, services and works in support of its activities in teaching, research and practice. It aims to build strong, collaborative and high-performing relationships with its key suppliers operating in a wide range of industries.
As a responsible customer, the College also understands that its supply chains have an impact upon our environment. This is why the College has set out its Responsible Procurement Policy (PDF) to govern its approach to supply chain management.
The College also aims to protect workers in its supply chains from labour rights abuses. Each year, it publishes a Modern Slavery Statement, setting out its progress in achieving greater transparency in its business and supply chains.
The RCA aims to buy goods, services and works in a manner that delivers value for money, is responsible and sustainable, is collaborative and manages risk effectively. Its Financial Regulations (PDF) set out the processes by which contracts are awarded and managed.
The College uses standard Terms and Conditions of Purchase, but trades under alternative conditions where appropriate.
The RCA also recognises the power of collaborative procurement in the higher education, arts, sciences and cultural sectors. As such, it is an active member of the London Universities Purchasing Consortium.
Suppliers should note that, at least for the academic year 2024/25, the RCA is not a ‘contracting authority’ under the meaning of both the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and the Procurement Act 2023.