1. Concept of purchasing
   1. Introduction
   2. Concept of purchase control
   3. Objectives of purchase department
   4. Factors for purchasing
   5. Role of purchasing
   6. Supply sourcing
   7. Negotiation
   8. Supplier management
   9. Purchasing and e-procurement
2. Purchase organisation
   1. Introduction
   2. Centralised and decentralised purchase organisation
3. Enlistment of approved suppliers
   1. Introduction
   2. Categories of registration
   3. Removal of firms from approved list
   4. Benefits/concessions to registered firms
4. Purchasing methods
   1. Mode of purchase
   2. Quantity purchase methods
   3. Quantity standards
   4. Quality standards
5. Purchase procedure
   1. Registration for purchases
   2. Submission of indents
   3. Tendering
   4. Opening of tenders
   5. Petty cash purchases
   6. Using an accounting software
   7. Keeping records organised
   8. Returning damaged goods
6. Quality control
   1. Introduction
   2. Quality control
   3. Internal control
7. Storekeeping and stores management
   1. Introduction
   2. Stores management and stock (inventory) control
   3. Stocks
   4. The stores function
   5. Location and layout of stores
   6. Receipt and issue of materials
8. Materials handling
   1. Loading / Unloading
   2. Internal transportation
   3. Material handling equipment
   4. Materials issue and accounting
9. Stock verification
   1. Object of stock verification
   2. Responsibility for and frequency of verification
   3. Inventory count sheet
   4. Guidelines
   5. Department verification
10. Inventory control
    1. Essentials for effective inventory management
    2. Annual review of inventory
    3. Inventory control methods
11. Principles of management and stores
    1. Introduction
    2. Functions of management
    3. Management of personnel
    4. Training

Purchasing and stores management are closely linked and are an important function of management in an organisation – particularly in the area of manufacturing and wholesaling. A thorough knowledge of the principles and practical aspects of purchasing and modern and appropriate methods and practices of stores management can contribute significantly to the overall good health of an organisation. This book highlights the main principles and practices governing the management of purchasing and stores departments, and will be useful to managers and aspiring managers alike.