Purchasers must determine whether a "statewide contract" exists before selecting a vendor. The State has already negotiated prices and terms for many goods and services. State agencies (Winthrop) are required to use statewide contracts. If a purchase intends to buy an identical item from a vendor not listed on a statewide contract, they must first contact purchasing@winthrop.edu.
All statewide contracts can be viewed at http://www.procurement.sc.gov.
Common examples of purchases on statewide contract include:
If an alternate vendor offers a lower price of 10% or more and can match the terms of the statewide contract, then Winthrop must allow the contract vendor to match the lower price before proceeding with the alternate vendor. To ensure compliance with state procurement policies, it is imperative that the Procurement Services Office be involved.
