Procurement in SMEs: focus topics and trends in 2025

The procurement landscape is changing rapidly. Companies are faced with increasing compliance requirements, global crises and rising commodity prices. The "EKL Report 2025" provides exciting insights into the most pressing issues and shows how SMEs can future-proof their procurement strategies.

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1. digitization as the key to success

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Digitalization is revolutionizing Procurement. While many companies still rely heavily on manual processes such as Excel and emails, pioneers are already benefiting from modern technology such as AI, automated data analysis and SRM systems.

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Advantages of digitization in Procurement:

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• Increased efficiency: Automated processes reduce the effort required for price inquiries and supplier sourcing.

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• Transparency: Digital platforms provide real-time insights into price developments and market analyses.

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• Compliance from a single source: systems such as Tacto enable the central management of standards such as LkSG, Reach and CBAM.

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Tip: Invest in a solid digital infrastructure at an early stage to benefit from these advantages.

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2. strategic pricing policy and negotiations

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Rising Procurement costs are a burden on the profitability of many companies. The key to cost control lies in a strategic pricing policy:

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• Analyze cost structure: Use digital tools to gain insights into commodity price indices and market conditions.

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• Strengthening supplier relationships: Open communication and joint target definition create win-win situations.

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3. risk management and supply chain stability

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Delivery failures and disruptions along the supply chain are among the biggest risks for 2025.

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Recommended measures:

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• Proactive risk management: Rely on real-time data analyses to identify risks at an early stage.

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• Systematic supplier management: Continuous evaluations and close partnerships minimize the risk of supplier failures.

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4. ensure sustainability and compliance

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With increasingly stringent regulations such as CBAM and REACH, compliance is becoming ever more important. Companies must act proactively to meet the requirements:

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• Regular queries along the supply chain: Secure up-to-date data on suppliers and their standards.

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• Use digital solutions: Systems such as Tacto make it easier to monitor and adhere to compliance requirements.

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Why it pays off: Sustainability and legally compliant supply chains not only strengthen your brand, but also minimize potential risks.

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Conclusion: The Procurement of the future is digital and sustainable

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The EKL Report 2025 illustrates how essential a strategic and digital focus is in Procurement . Companies that rely on modern technologies and sustainable processes at an early stage not only secure competitive advantages, but also strengthen their resilience to global challenges.

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Download the full EKL Report 2025 and discover how you can future-proof your Procurement in the new year!

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At the end of the year, we asked over 300 procurement executives: "What are the topics that you will be focusing on in 2025 in order to achieve your corporate goals?". The survey results highlight current trends and challenges and provide insights into the strategies that procurement managers are using to overcome them.