28 August 2006

St Mary's NHS Trust in Paddington is set to save £4 million over five years, by taking advantage of an online marketplace.

The Internet service, provided by the Office of Government Commerce (OGC), allows the trust to connect to suppliers direct, potentially cutting costs and finding the best options.

Zanzibar, the OGC's e-commerce initiative, is expected to be adopted by 16 more NHS trusts in the near future.

Mansel Chamberlain, procurement director of the Northwest London NHS Procurement Confederation, said: "In total, the 17 NHS Trusts in the Northwest London Procurement Confederation spend almost £1 billion pounds a year on supplies and the potential for making savings is enormous.

"Five of the largest Trusts, representing over 50 per cent of expenditure, are now committed to rolling out Zanzibar."

The Department of Work and Pensions recently agreed a deal to use the Zanzibar e-marketplace, hoping that savings and efficiency can be improved.

© Adfero Ltd

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