The Welsh Purchasing Consortium was formed in 1974 and reformed in 1996 following the reorganisation of Local Government in Wales. It allows members to combine requirements of the unitary authorities within Wales saving an excess of £2million per annum. Each member contributes by arranging and managing contracts on behalf of the other autorities and therefore becoming an official supplier of goods within this consortium, is extremely beneficial to local companies.

Currently there are 12 South Wales Unitary Authorities:

Cardiff - Rhondda Cynon Taff - Swansea - Neath Port Talbot - Bridgend - Merthyr - Blaenau - Gwent - Caerphilly - Torfaen - Monmouth
- Newport - Vale of Glamorgan