The UC Davis Activities & Recreation Center buzzed with energy in October as the annual Fall Supplier Showcase brought campus purchasers and UC-partnered suppliers together for a day of connection and discovery. After years of subdued attendance following the shift to remote work, this year’s event saw revitalized attendance and enthusiasm among suppliers and campus staff.
Over 30 partnered suppliers participated, offering insights into new products and services, answering questions, and, of course, sharing swag! With a balanced mix of commodities on display, the event succeeded in providing something of interest for every attendee.
The showcase wasn’t just about external vendors. Several UC and UC Davis organizations, including UC Systemwide Procurement, the Campus Bookstore, and the Associated Students of UC Davis Bike Barn, were on hand, enriching the event with their own services and offerings. UC Davis Supply Chain Management’s (SCM) buyers and Strategic Sourcing team members also seized the opportunity to meet face-to-face with supplier representatives and campus clients they usually connect with online.
To complement the main event, several breakout sessions tackled key topics like sustainability, UC policies and procedures, and shopping with Amazon Business. These short talks provided attendees with valuable insights to enhance their purchasing strategies and align with UC’s broader goals.
The Fall Supplier Showcase continues to highlight the value of in-person interactions in fostering strong supplier relationships and advancing UC Davis’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and sustainability.