FoodServiceEurope took part today in the very interesting discussions with representatives from the Commission, the legal profession, contracting authorities and service providers, about public procurement in the EU and the way forward. Key conclusions from these discussions are outlined in the document below.

We urge the Commission to consider these elements when taking public procurement policies forward and considering the potential introduction of mandatory procurement criteria. It is fundamental to ensure tenders provide the flexibility to apply a case-by-case approach that is framed by sector specific guidance. The sectorial Best Value Guides (such as the one for contract catering services here)  are a concrete contribution to such an objective that should be used.