Local Food Procurement Pilot: Connecting Kent and Medway Producers with Institutional Buyers

Kent and Medway Council is seeking a delivery partner to run a pilot project that strengthens connections between local food and drink producers and institutional buyers (schools, hospitals, care providers). The pilot will identify willing buyers and capable suppliers, facilitate collaboration through workshops and matchmaking, and support changes to procurement and logistics to enable local business participation. Key activities include: building relationships between producers and institutions; addressing practical barriers to supply chain participation; investigating procurement process improvements; tracking progress; and conducting awareness-raising about the benefits of local sourcing. The pilot should generate practical evidence and recommendations for future scaling. This aligns with the Government's 'Towards a Good Food Cycle' framework and Kent and Medway's Economic Development Framework. The region produces approximately 40% of the UK's fruit and vegetables, representing a significant opportunity to support local economic growth, supply chain resilience, health outcomes, and sustainability. Delivery should be proportionate to budget, complement existing strategic activity, and consider relevant frameworks including Government Buying Standards and social value approaches. Findings and lessons learned must be documented and made available for wider sharing to inform future delivery and investment.