Unimed Procurement Services
25 April 2025
Sector: Procurement
Location: Leicester
Unimed Procurement Services (Unimed) is an International Development Organisation based in Leicester, specialising in global health procurement and technical assistance.
The company was established in 2018 and works alongside aid and development agencies, charities, NGOs and governments to project manage, source and deliver medical commodities. It has delivered over 700 projects across 63 countries and won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise: Excellence in International Trade 2022. It currently employs 11 people.
Challenges faced
Political unrest, government changes and war have impacted the provision of funds for global aid, development and emergency relief projects. Instability also impacts the capability to deliver to sensitive regions. Like many organisations, Unimed also faced rising energy costs which added additional pressure to the team.
Solution and Impact
Unimed has taken advantage of support from the Accelerator project. This is funded by Leicester City Council’s share of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). Head of Quality at Unimed, Claire Harrington worked with Chamber Business Adviser, Joanna Moore on a 1-to-1 basis to look at the business and areas for growth or improvement.
As well as a business diagnostic, a fully funded energy audit was arranged through Will Syme-Nicholson of Vision Zero Consult. Following the recommendations from Will the business changed energy suppliers securing a contract which will save them approximately £8,000 a year in energy costs. This also meets their target of having a renewable energy source. A decarbonisation plan was also introduced to support its goals towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions
“It’s been very helpful to have an adviser to signpost us to the best specialist contacts for further assistance.
I’m happy that we are much better informed and focused after the support we have received – thank you.”
- Claire Harrington, Head of Quality
This initiative is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and delivered by East Midlands Chamber on behalf of Leicester City Council.
