The Procurement Act 2023: A Game Changer for Diverse and Sustainable Suppliers

As BX Merchandise, a proudly minority- and women-owned sustainable merchandise company based in Brixton, we believe that how we do business matters as much as what we deliver. The recent implementation of The Procurement Act 2023 — which came into force in February 2025 — represents a moment of opportunity, recognition, and responsibility for businesses like ours. 

Understanding the Procurement Act 2023 

The Procurement Act 2023 is the UK’s most significant public procurement reform in a generation. It replaces complex EU-influenced procurement rules with a simplified, transparent framework. For businesses like ours — certified by MSDUK and WEConnect International, with ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001:2015 credentials — the biggest breakthrough is clear. 

To find comprehensive details about the government’s procurement transformation initiative follow the link: official gov.uk procurement collections page. 

The Act makes “value for money” and “public benefit” core principles in public procurement. 

This means buyers are encouraged to look beyond price alone. Instead, they can factor in social impact, sustainability, and inclusion when making purchasing decisions. This aligns perfectly with what we have championed since Sarah Sayed founded BX Merchandise in 2007. 

Benefits for Diverse and Sustainable Suppliers 

For years, underrepresented businesses faced barriers accessing government contracts and large-scale procurement opportunities. Common responses included “We love your products, but our suppliers are already set” or “You are not on the approved list.”

The Procurement Act 2023 changes this narrative by:
Opening more contracts to SMEs. Businesses like BX Merchandise, with proven track records supporting Fortune 500 companies and global brands, gain the recognition we deserve.
Encouraging social value consideration. Our ISO 14001:2015 certification and sustainable Impact Range become competitive advantages, not just nice-to-haves.
Promoting transparency and fairness. The tendering process becomes more level for certified minority- and women-owned businesses.
Creating a central digital platform. Suppliers can engage with opportunities more easily, building on our success with platforms like our corporate webstores.

This legislation recognises what forward-thinking companies already know. Inclusive ownership and sustainability deliver real value when they’re built into operational DNA. 

What This Means for Your Procurement Strategy 

From our Brixton base, we have spent nearly two decades proving that diverse, sustainable suppliers deliver exceptional value. We have helped global organisations meet their ESG goals through responsible merchandise solutions, supported major Pride campaigns across Europe, and earned industry recognition including Supplier Diversity Leadership Awards and Outstanding Supplier status. 

As we prepare for the UK Inclusive Sourcing Summit this September — a first-of-its-kind event powered by MSDUK, OutBritain, Social Enterprise UK, Veteran-Owned UK, and WEConnect International — we are buzzing with excitement to be part of this new procurement era. These five advocacy organisations are driving stronger, more sustainable supply chains, and the Procurement Act 2023 provides the perfect framework for what we have always delivered: purpose-driven solutions that support women-led innovation, minority-owned creativity, and products that benefit both people and planet.

Our European Infrastructure Advantage 

Our strategic European infrastructure includes a Netherlands warehouse hub and Dutch VAT registration. This means we deliver compliant, cost-effective solutions across the continent, often within 14 days. Combined with our AWARE collection featuring blockchain-traceable sustainability metrics, we are positioned to help procurement teams achieve diversity and environmental objectives. 

Key Benefits of Working with Certified Diverse Suppliers 

Quality Assurance: ISO certifications ensure consistent quality and environmental responsibility.
ESG Impact: Support your organisation’s Environmental, Social and Governance goals through responsible sourcing.
Innovation: Diverse perspectives drive creative solutions and fresh approaches to merchandise challenges.
Compliance: Navigate post-Brexit regulations with experienced partners who understand European logistics.
Transparency: Blockchain-traceable products provide clear sustainability impact data. 

Making the Most of Procurement Act 2023 

If you are a procurement officer, sustainability lead, or business decision-maker, this is your moment. The tools are in place. The policies support you. Turn purchasing power into progress. 

Want to explore how your organisation can align with Procurement Act principles while meeting ESG and supplier diversity goals? Our consultancy-style approach means we work closely with clients to understand their values and objectives, crafting merchandise solutions that feel like seamless brand extensions. 

Action Steps for Procurement Teams 

Evaluate current suppliers against diversity and sustainability criteria outlined in the Procurement Act 2023.
Consider social value alongside price when assessing tenders and proposals.
Engage with certified diverse suppliers to understand their capabilities and competitive advantages.
Leverage technology like blockchain traceability to measure and report sustainability impact.
Plan ahead for the WEConnect International Summit and similar networking opportunities.

Ready to Transform Your Procurement Approach? 

Join us at the UK Inclusive Sourcing Summit this September, or reach out today to discover how BX Merchandise can support your responsible procurement journey. 

The Procurement Act 2023 is not just legislation — it is an opportunity to create positive change through strategic purchasing decisions. Partner with suppliers who share your values and can help achieve your diversity, sustainability, and quality objectives. 

About BX Merchandise: Founded in 2007 by Sarah Sayed and based in Brixton, South London, BX Merchandise is a certified minority- and women-owned business (MSDUK & WEConnect International) offering sustainable, ethical merchandise solutions. With ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001:2015 certifications, we partner with global organisations — including Fortune 500 companies — to deliver high-quality promotional merchandise supporting Environmental, Social and Governance goals. We believe procurement can be a powerful force for equity, community, and climate responsibility.

Contact us today to explore sustainable merchandise solutions that align with the new procurement landscape.