Our commitment

Late payment is one of the quietest ways big organisations harm small ones. We pay small suppliers and freelancers quickly and we do not use payment terms as a financing tool.

Payment standards

• Standard terms of 30 days from a valid invoice
• 14 days for sole traders, freelancers and micro-businesses
• No retrospective changes to agreed terms
• Disputes raised within seven days of invoice, with the undisputed portion paid on time

Selecting suppliers

Selection considers value, capability, security, ethics and environmental standards, not price alone. Competitive quotes are sought above defined thresholds, and every supplier receives our supplier code of conduct with their contract.

Governance and review

This policy is owned by the Chief Operating Officer and approved by the board. It is reviewed at least annually, and sooner if the law, our operations or our risk profile changes.