Why a buyer is much more than a cost-killer

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to show the evolutions of the missions given to buyers.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a historical approach.

Findings

Cost-killing is less and less the more important part of the buyer’s job.

Originality/value

This paper is aimed at showing the importance of alternative missions given to buyers, in addition to the traditional mission consisting in reducing costs. More and more supply security and value creation are considered as more strategic missions for purchasing.

Citation

Poissonnier, H. (2017), "Why a buyer is much more than a cost-killer", Strategic Direction, Vol. 33 No. 2, pp. 15-17. https://doi.org/10.1108/SD-11-2016-0158