Beyond global rankings: Benchmarking public food procurement

Abstract

Public food procurement (PFP) is commonly used by governments to advance social, economic and environmental goals. In many developing countries, it is intended to strengthen rural livelihoods and promote food security and better nutrition among vulnerable populations. This Working Paper presents the PFP Benchmarking methodology, an effective evaluation tool to assist governments to achieve these outcomes. The authors argue that PFP Benchmarking is a novel approach that favours participation, reflection and learning over global rankings, overcoming several criticisms of international benchmarking methodologies.