Meeting the Evolving Demands of NHS Catering

Catering in the NHS means balancing tight budgets, strict nutritional standards and the daily needs of patients and staff. In recent years, these pressures have only increased. Food inflation continues to drive up costs. Sustainability and social value targets are becoming core priorities. Procurement is under greater scrutiny, and workforce shortages remain a challenge.

In this environment, NHS Trusts need procurement solutions that are not only compliant and cost-effective, but flexible, transparent and aligned with long-term organisational goals.

Purposeful Procurement: The Buying Better Food and Drink Framework

The Crown Commercial Service’s Buying Better Food and Drink framework provides a fully compliant, flexible route to market for NHS catering teams. Delivered by global food group purchasing organisation Entegra, it helps Trusts improve commercial outcomes while delivering on broader objectives around sustainability, social impact and supplier diversity.

Trusts working with Entegra through the framework benefit from:

• Full compliance with public sector procurement regulations, offering assurance and reducing audit risk.
• The flexibility to nominate preferred suppliers or choose from a vetted national and regional network — saving time while maintaining control.
• Simplified access for SMEs, enabling a more diverse and resilient supply chain.
• Enhanced social value, supported through responsible sourcing, supplier engagement and community educational initiatives.
• Ongoing advisory support aligned with strategic goals, from cost savings to patient satisfaction.
• Robust reporting and data insights, giving teams the visibility they need to make informed, confident decisions.

Crown Commercial Service and Entegra work together to support NHS teams in driving quality, ensuring compliance, and delivering continuous improvement.

Improving Value and Visibility for a Forward-Thinking NHS Trust

North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust recently joined the framework to reduce costs, expand supplier choice and enhance its catering offer. Through a mini competition ran by Entegra, both existing and new suppliers were invited to participate, resulting in savings of up to 10% across three key categories.

Entegra also facilitated supplier introduction days, helping to build stronger on-site relationships and support collaborative menu development. Ongoing account management continues to assist with costing, planning and improving the overall food experience for staff and patients.

“Entegra has brought a fresh perspective to how we work with suppliers. The structured process and hands-on support have helped us make more informed decisions and improve how we deliver our service day to day.”

— Sonia Balls, Head Chef, North West Anglia NHS Trust

Ready to Realise the Benefits of the Framework?

To find out how the Buying Better Food and Drink framework can be tailored to support your Trust’s strategic objectives, get in touch to request a callback. It’s quick to join, fully compliant — and removes the need for a full public sector tender. Either drop us a message via Live Chat or complete the form below