Across industries, today more than half - and in some cases even over 80 percent - of company performance is purchased and shaped by external value creation partners. This goes far beyond simply providing materials, services, and infrastructure of all kinds in a cost-effective, low-inventory, and timely manner. Supply sources need to be secured in the long term, innovation potentials must be unlocked, and procurement risks must be managed consistently. Without the consistent integration and consideration of purchasing and procurement activities, corporate strategies can no longer be successfully implemented. A coherent purchasing strategy that is closely aligned with the corporate strategy is increasingly becoming a central success factor. Thus, purchasing has extensive leverage to make a sustainable and significant contribution to the company's growth.