This is article is about ethical procurement/purchasing. Find out the difference between procurement and sponsorship here.
If you want to buy something for your event, start by checking out the Ethical Register for an approved business that UMSU already works with.
If you want to use a business not in the list, please follow these guidelines before requesting the purchase of your goods through your supervisor:
Research potential suppliers: Before making a purchase, research the supplier to determine if they align with UMSU values. You can look up their website, read customer reviews, and investigate their corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
Consider the supplier's environmental impact: Look for suppliers that prioritise sustainability and have policies in place to reduce their environmental impact. Consider if they use eco-friendly materials, if they have energy-efficient facilities, and if they have recycling programs.
Evaluate the supplier's labour practices: Choose suppliers that treat their employees fairly and ethically. Look for suppliers that adhere to fair labour practices, such as paying their workers a fair wage and providing safe working conditions.
Consider the supplier's track record: Research the supplier's history with previous customers to evaluate their reliability and performance. Look for any red flags or warning signs, such as negative reviews or lawsuits. Google is your friend.
Check against UMSU’s Financial Regulations
Google, Shop Ethical! and Ethical Consumer are all great resources.
Note: Ethical approval requests cannot be made for the purposes of procurement. We encourage you to check the Advertising & Sponsorship Ethical Register for guidance, but you must do your own research for businesses that aren’t on the register.
Reminder: You can’t use brand names to advertise any prizes or incentives that you have purchased. Use generic terms like “movie tickets” rather than “Palace Cinema tickets”. You can only name drop brands if A&S has organised a sponsorship contract.