This timely book examines the ever-increasing prevalence of Central Purchasing Bodies (CPBs), analysing their use and structure across different EU Member States. It argues that since CPBs are only partially regulated at EU level, their operations will depend on the legislation of the individual Member States and more importantly on the States’ distinct practices and traditions. Comparative contributions consider the legal nature and structures of CPBs across 12 Member States and the UK.

Through comprehensive comparative analysis, this book investigates competition law and SMEs, economic and management perspectives, and centralised public purchasing during the COVID-19 pandemic within the sphere of CPBs and joint procurement. Chapters explore the use of procurement techniques and electronic instruments by CPBs and the liability and remedies perspectives of CPBs and their users.

Providing a complete overview of CPBs structure in different Member States and the aspects of joint procurements, Centralising Public Procurement will be of interest to students and scholars of European and commercial law. It also offers important insights for CPBs themselves, practitioners and policy-makers, as well as contracting authorities using CPBs in the different Member States.