Saving money for office or department in an environmentally friendly way is the stated aim of a UCSB Business Services-sponsored product fair on Oct. 25 in Corwin Pavilion featuring 15 vendors. Presentations on a paperless yet accountable method of purchasing, called the FlexCard, and other topics will begin at 9 a.m. in the MultiCultural Center Theater.

These are the heart of an exhibition that puts a campus stamp on UC’s award-winning Strategic Sourcing Initiative. The new vendor system and the FlexCard, a special Visa debit card for purchasing low value supplies, are key components to cutting costs under the systemwide initiative. Presentations will explain how.

Among the vendors at the exhibition, which will offer door prizes and light refreshments, are representatives of large firms contracted by UC to supply basic products at reduced prices, like office supplies from Office Max. UC spends over $20 million annually on office supplies, according to a news release from the Office of the President. With the Office Max contract, UCOP projects a savings of $3.5 a year.

Other vendors will feature a variety of goods including: lab supplies, office furniture, computers and accessories, cell phone and related products, custodial supplies, copier equipment, and more. Staff will be on hand to provide information and answer questions.

Followup questions regarding the FlexCard should be addressed to Vaughn Boyle (x7377) at Business Services.