A supply management department is asked to obtain lower prices from suppliers.

To improve the situation where stakeholders request more items despite achieving lower per-item costs, the best long-term approach is to work with leadership to implement a more effective demand management program. This program would help in managing and controlling the demand for items, ensuring that the total expenditures do not increase unnecessarily. It involves planning, monitoring, and controlling the usage and requisition of goods and services to align with organizational goals and budgets.

References

CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). Demand Management in Procurement.

ISM (Institute for Supply Management). Strategies for Effective Demand Management.