"Missouri families have always shopped around for the best prices on the things they buy. Missouri Smart Buy builds on that philosophy in state purchasing," Holden said. "I am pleased to bring this state plan to local government and school districts in Missouri."
Letters have been sent to counties, cities and school districts inviting them to take part in the program. Local municipality participation can generate increased savings for everyone involved. Local government and school districts can combine with the leveraged power of state agencies to keep costs down.
The first contracts of the Missouri Smart Buy program have resulted in estimated savings of $2 million over a one-year period. By ensuring Missouri gets the best deal on goods such as office supplies, computers, and photocopiers, the state will be able to provide the best value for Missouri taxpayers.
"By improving Missouri's grasp on what it purchases, the state will be able to better recognize what it needs," Holden said. "All Missourians benefit from a more efficient government focused on delivering the best value for their tax dollar."
Missouri Smart Buy also seeks to level the playing field for state contracts, ensuring that small businesses can compete equally and extending the governor's "Missouri First" philosophy in state contracting.
