CIPS undertook a "rigorous assessment" of the public sector procurement framework in five key areas of policy and awarded it the Certification Standard of Excellence in Purchasing Policies and Procedures.

CIPS knowledge and representation director Roy Ayliffe said: "We were very impressed in general with Buying Solutions, but of particular note were four areas: the use of e-tools, the customer value indicator; vision; and category management.

"Buying Solutions' commitment to these areas is impressive, and is rooted in the company infrastructure, which reflects well on continuous improvement," added Ayliffe.

David Murray, director of corporate services at Buying Solutions, called it an "outstanding result".

"Buying Solutions will continue to work over coming weeks and months to build upon this exceptional achievement," said Murray.

The CIPS certification assesses the standards of purchasing and supply policies and procedures designed and implemented by an organisation's procurement function.