Business and public bodies in Scotland are being urged to sign up to a series of pledges to ensure their procurement is socially responsible and values led.

The ‘buy social’ series of pledges is aimed at corporate businesses, small and medium sized enterprises, academic institutions, and public sector bodies who are looking to bring in social enterprises and value led organisations into their supply chains.

“Social procurement is a powerful strategy that leverages the purchasing power of organisations to generate positive social and environmental outcomes,” said Social Enterprise Scotland, which has launched the campaign.

“It goes beyond traditional procurement and purchasing practices by incorporating social, ethical and environmental considerations into the purchasing decision-making process.”

The pledge includes ensuring those being added to supply chains back fair working practices, including prioritising the real living wage, narrowing gender pay gaps, ending zero-hour contracts and promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in their recruitment.

Other pledges are to embrace a net zero policy, promote social enterprises within supply chains and to pay suppliers promptly.

Another is to commit to transparency and accountability by measuring positive impact within supply chains.

“In launching the 'Buy Social Pledge,' we're not just transforming supply chains; we're actively weaving the fabric of social and environmental stewardship into the heart of business,” said Social Enterprise Scotland chief executive Chris Martin.

“It's about more than transactions—it's a commitment to a future where every purchase powers positive change in our communities.”

The campaign is backed by the Scottish government and employers who have signed up include Glasgow City Council; the Robertson Group; Keegan & Pennykid; Morrison Construction; City Building (Glasgow) LLP and Edinburgh Napier University.

“Morrison Construction are delighted to be among the first businesses to sign up to the Buy Social Pledge,” said the firm’s managing director David Ewing.

“We are committed to embedding community wealth in all we do, forming a close relationship with Social Enterprises and Supported Businesses to ensure that they continue to flourish and grow.

“The Buy Social Pledge completely aligns with our ethos of making an impact in the communities where we work and live, providing a partnership that promotes and encourages the value of a supply chain enhanced by these organisations.”

Glasgow City Council’s convener for neighbourhood services and assets Ruairi Kelly added: “When organisations Buy Social, they are not only supporting local social enterprises – a key part of the city’s economy – but encouraging Fair Work practices and a range of actions that make a real social, economic and environmental difference.”

Earlier this week Social Enterprise UK called on local authorities to ensure they are embracing a social value led approach to their contracts and tendering.

Its survey of councils found that this approach is increasingly being used, however uptake is still low.

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