**London**: The procurement software market is set to expand significantly, driven by AI and e-commerce growth. A report anticipates a USD 6.66 billion increase by 2029, highlighting a shift towards automated, value-driven procurement processes despite challenges in integration and supplier onboarding.
As the global procurement software market prepares for significant expansion, emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), are revolutionising procurement strategies. A recent report by Technavio forecasts that the market will grow by approximately USD 6.66 billion between 2025 and 2029, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.3% during this period.
The demand for advanced procurement solutions is largely driven by the growth of e-commerce and organised retail, alongside the increasing integration of AI to enhance operational efficiency. The report highlights the role of artificial intelligence in transforming traditional procurement processes into value-driven, automated systems, thereby enabling businesses to not only manage costs effectively but also create significant value through stronger supplier relationships.
Notably, the procurement landscape is evolving from a focus on mere cost management to a more nuanced approach that prioritises resilience and competitive advantage built through collaboration with suppliers. As procurement processes become more complex, the integration of AI and automation will be crucial for firms aiming to streamline operations and improve supply chain visibility. These systems facilitate everything from virtual assistance and chatbots to advanced data analytics for better decision-making, underscoring the importance of technology in modern procurement.
However, challenges remain. The report indicates that companies face obstacles such as integration complexities, with existing legacy systems often at odds with newer software solutions. Additionally, supplier onboarding can be hindered by varying technological capabilities across different suppliers, which may delay achieving operational efficiency.
Key players in the procurement software market, such as Basware, Coupa Software, and Oracle Corporation, are positioning themselves to seize opportunities presented by this shift towards digitisation. Their focus is on developing cloud-based solutions that are not only cost-effective but also simplify the adoption of these advanced technologies for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Furthermore, cloud-based procurement solutions are gaining traction, reducing the need for extensive hardware investments and enabling businesses to access services on a subscription basis, thus alleviating some of the upfront costs associated with traditional systems. As these trends continue to unfold, the procurement software market is set to witness substantial growth that aligns with a broader digital transformation across various industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and energy.
In this evolving landscape, the ability to foster stronger supplier relationships and embrace collaborative frameworks will be essential for companies seeking to remain competitive. Ultimately, the integration of AI-powered solutions appears to be a pivotal factor that will define the future of procurement, driving not only operational efficiencies but also strategic advantages across the board.
Source: Noah Wire Services