April 2018

A different side to training

BPIF Cartons recently organised a training course for all its members that offered them the opportunity to discover the techniques that experienced packaging buyers frequently apply to contract negotiations. The course was led by Pat Taylor and Mark Boxall, from XL@procurement, who previously worked as procurement directors for a number of large multi-national businesses. The course was attended by 36 participants, representing both converters and suppliers to the industry, who were all keen to understand the ‘tricks of the trade.'

Jon Clark, BPIF Cartons General Manager said, "The course provided a great insight into procurement techniques that our members often face. It will help them recognise certain practices as well as equipping them with effective responses. Pat and Mark have many years of experience of sitting ‘on the other side of the fence' so their knowledge provides a valuable understanding of how to get the best from contract negotiations. We were delighted to welcome a great cross-section of members on the day from large multi-nationals to smaller, niche businesses. We plan to extend this training and offer further options later in the year."

One of the attendees of the training course said, "The course itself was relevant, interesting and didn't feel like it went on for too long. At the end of the course, I did feel like I had learnt something and I actually did have a new perspective of buying from a buyer's perspective in our meetings this week!"