Basics

Mission

The Swiss Post procurement organization (BOP) is responsible for fulfilling all unit procurement requirements in line with strategic objectives. The units are responsible for the associated technical and financial aspects. BOP develops the appropriate processes, structures and skills, and ensures transparency of costs and services across the Group on the basis of legal and commercial conditions.
The aim of BOP’s corporate approach is to actively exploit the Group’s potential in procurement-related matters. Requirements are coordinated and consolidated at a top level. Procurement processes are optimized, and information on procurement markets, suppliers, activities and methods is made available and exchanged at a corporate level.

Procurement management

BOP is the top-level service unit for corporate procurement, both internally and externally. It consists of a central Corporate Purchasing unit (KEK) and local procurement organizations (BOs). Procurement responsibilities are structured in line with the corporate product group key. Procurement processes are designed to meet internal customer requirements and also the requirements of the specific business.
BOP actively influences the use of standardized procurement systems (SAP philosophy) and supplementary management tools. It is involved in all procurement system issues, thus ensuring end-to-end transparency.

Supplier management

BOP expects its suppliers to be innovative and prepared to be actively involved in Swiss Post’s performance and ongoing improvements.
Goods and services are procured with a focus on cost-effectiveness and security of supply throughout the entire value chain and product lifetime.
Suppliers are selected and evaluated based on quality, price, product/service and delivery date. Risk, innovation and performance potential, environmental aspects and also an ability to connect electronically are additionally taken into account.  The Swiss Post Code of Ethics and Social Responsibility must be observed.

Requirements

Technical requirements must be specified in a non-proprietary manner. Alternative proposals and innovative solutions are welcome. The Group also strives to enter into long-term partnerships where strategically important products are concerned. Proposals are evaluated in line with criteria that can be objectively assessed.

Awarding contracts

The most cost-effective proposal will be awarded the contract. In the case of largely standardized goods, the lowest price may also be chosen as the sole criterion for awarding contracts.