Eastern Shires Purchasing Organisation (ESPO) Company Research Report

Company Overview

• Name: Eastern Shires Purchasing Organisation (ESPO)

• Mission of the Company: ESPO is committed to providing a comprehensive, one-stop-shop solution for public sector procurement. The organisation offers a broad range of goods and services at best value prices, supported by specialist frameworks and procurement services.

• Founded and History: ESPO was established in 1981 to support member authorities with their procurement needs. With over 40 years of service, ESPO has grown to become one of the largest Public Buying Organisations (PBOs) in the UK while remaining 100% public sector owned.

• Key People: No specific information on key people is available.

• Headquarters: Barnsdale Way, Grove Park, Enderby, Leicester, LE19 1ES, United Kingdom.

• Number of Employees: No information is available.

• Revenue: No information is available.

• Known For: ESPO is recognized as one of the largest suppliers to schools in the UK. It serves over 12,000 schools and offers a vast range of over 27,000 products as well as 120 framework solutions for procurement.

Products

Educational and Office Supplies

1. Exercise Books:

• Types: Premium, Matt Laminated, Manilla.

• Key Features: Various sizes such as A4, A4+, and 9"x7", with EFC-free paper sourced from PEFC forests, durable staple binding, and robust covers.

2. Art & Crafts Supplies:

• Ranges: Collage materials, Paints, and Modelling clay.

• Key Features: Variety of colors and types including whiteboards and pastels.

3. Stationery and Office Supplies:

• Items: Pens, filing solutions, drywipe markers, laminating pouches, etc.

• Key Features: Eco-friendly options like recycled and refillable items.

4. Furniture:

• Types: Classroom desks, chairs, lockers, and storage solutions.

• Key Features: Options include recycled materials, durable designs, and various color choices.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Clothing:

• Items: High visibility jackets, 3-in-1 jackets.

• Key Features: Features such as waterproof materials, reflective strips, and compliance with safety standards.

New Products

1. Smartbuy Products:

• Examples: Facial tissues, Alcohol hand gel.

• Key Features: Environmentally friendly packaging, budget-friendly options.

2. PPE and Clothing Framework:

• Framework 144_23: Active framework for PPE and clothing solutions.

3. Technology Products and Services:

• Framework RM6098_23: Active framework offering access to technology products and associated services.

Recent Developments

• New Frameworks:

• ESPO offers over 120 frameworks, including the newly introduced frameworks for Personal Protective Equipment and Technology Products.

• Expanding Product Range:

• ESPO has been expanding its product ranges, including launching new product categories under the Smartbuy brand.

• International Expansion:

• Although historically focused on the UK public sector, ESPO's offering is available to private-sector organizations and international customers through a global network of partners.

• Sustainability Initiatives:

• Continued dedication to sustainability is evident through initiatives like using recycled materials verified by FSC and PEFC standards in their product offerings.

• Partnerships:

• The company collaborates with prominent educational and commercial organizations, like the cashback reward initiative in partnership with Sainsbury's/Argos for schools and nursery settings.

This report aims to highlight ESPO’s robust product offerings, sustainable practices, framework solutions, and continued role as a leader in procurement services for the public sector.