Central Buying Consortium was formed in 1991 and is a non-profit making federation of 23 local authorities based broadly across the southern half of England. 

Education institutions, emergency services, district and unitary councils, charities and voluntary organisations can purchase much of their services and supplies via local government authorities either through a catalogue or direct via an established local authority contract.

The time and work associated with tendering and awarding a contract can be considerable. By collaborating with other public sector organisations this process becomes more economical and the resulting increased volume of goods or services equate to better pricing and terms and conditions. This means the CBC contracts that are created provide a very competitive and attractive price for the end user.