What are some common procurement methods?

The selection highlighting direct procurement, competitive tendering, framework agreements, and e-procurement accurately reflects the primary methods used in the procurement process.

Direct procurement refers to the acquisition of goods or services directly from suppliers without intermediaries, which streamlines the purchasing process and can lead to better pricing and terms.

Competitive tendering is a method where various suppliers submit bids to win a contract, fostering competition and often leading to more favorable pricing and quality outcomes for the buyer.

Framework agreements establish long-term relationships with suppliers, allowing for pre-agreed terms and conditions, which can speed up procurement processes and provide stability in supply.

Lastly, e-procurement utilizes online services and tools to facilitate the procurement process, making it more efficient and less susceptible to human error. With the rise of technology in business, e-procurement offers a user-friendly platform for managing purchasing needs.

The other options present methods that may be relevant in some business contexts but do not specifically pertain to the established procurement methods recognized in formal procurement practices. For instance, intermediary selling and stockpiling focus more on logistics and selling strategies rather than the procurement process itself. Retail distribution and inventory management are also more aligned with the supply chain and sales processes rather than procurement.