Table 8 Summary of research questions answered with the study

Drivers of purchasing

A small core of buyers raising most of the orders whereas the majority order once a fortnight or longer.

Job type, ways to raise PO, type of goods purchased, expected delivery times and location of PO are significantly influencing PO frequency.

Key determinants of purchasing behaviour in a large institution (i.e. Newcastle University)

Very few respondents have a weekly repeating pattern which suggest that most cases the demand is of the modern ‘pull’ basis and would generate ‘just in time’ demand on suppliers.

Being administrative, technical specialist, or operational services staff, with a University purchasing card are significantly increases PO frequency.

Required timing of demand for goods generated, vs the actual need for the goods

Ad hoc nature of ordering, for most population, is being expressed as ‘as soon as possible’ or ‘next day’.

Certain goods types, such as chemicals, bulk gases and furniture, are significantly influencing PO frequency.

Purchasing demand of different goods types and how are goods delivered to the end users

Most goods ordered are delivered in boxes and trays, save for those delivered in envelopes and packets.

No significant relationship exist.