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Dec. 4 , 2009

Latest buzz about coffee service

UPMC is making it easier and more environmentally friendly for employees, visitors, and patients to get their daily blend.
Coffee service has been made more efficient across UPMC, resulting in a better-tasting, more consistent product. In the past, UPMC did not have a central source for coffee and supplies. As a result, more than 20 different vendors were providing coffee service to departments and locations across the organization. There was no standardization of costs or service levels; each arrangement was unique and without a contract.

There are environmental benefits, too.

Green Mountain has been recognized as a socially and environmentally responsible company. And, UPMC made a conscious decision to limit the use of Styrofoam cups by offering only an 8-ounce version. This size is appropriate for our patient and visitor waiting rooms. Staff members, however, are encouraged to use reusable mugs and cups to help reduce solid waste and promote sustainable actions.

Supply Chain Management undertook an initiative to reduce coffee service costs without sacrificing quality. They also wanted to create an efficient and simple way to order and pay for the product.  

First, Supply Chain has contracted with Corporate Express/Staples to supply Green Mountain coffee, which can be ordered through the UPMC eMarketplace on My HUB. In addition to offering a premium coffee brand, Corporate Express agreed to furnish new coffee makers at no charge to UPMC and to take responsibility for ongoing maintenance of the equipment.

Then, representatives from around the system were brought together to taste-test and select the coffee blends and creamer that UPMC would make available. All of these actions have resulted in a quality product, consistent pricing, and a reduction in administrative time and effort because of the elimination of invoicing and purchase orders.

 

 

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