But short-term cost cutting often comes at a long-term price — damaging supplier relationships, increasing risk, and undermining sustainability goals.

Inside the report, you’ll discover:

• Why 73% of UK businesses say cost reduction has become a higher priority in the past 12 months

• How short-term savings can expose long-term risks, with 68% warning that aggressive cost cutting can harm the business over time

• The hidden impact of cost pressure on suppliers — including why 36% of businesses have already seen suppliers go out of business

• How regulatory changes like the UK Procurement Act 2023 and upcoming EU sustainability directives are reshaping procurement priorities

• Practical strategies for sustainable cost reduction, from supplier collaboration to smarter demand planning

• Why visibility into spend and suppliers is critical — and why 40% of businesses still lack it

This report explores how procurement leaders can reduce costs without compromising resilience, compliance, or values..