PwC's global digital procurement survey 2026
From digitalisation to intelligent procurement
How AI, automation and new operating models are reshaping procurement
Digital procurement is entering a new era. Discover the priorities, technologies and trends shaping what comes next.
After years of investment in source-to-pay platforms and process automation, procurement leaders are looking beyond basic digitalisation towards AI-enabled decision-making, greater efficiency and more connected supplier ecosystems.
PwC's 6th Global Digital Procurement Survey explores where organisations stand today, where they expect to be in three years, and which capabilities will determine whether transformation delivers lasting value.
At a glance Four numbers shaping the 2026 agenda
About the survey A global view of procurement transformation
The 2026 study captures perspectives from procurement leaders and practitioners across geographies, sectors and company sizes.
It examines how procurement priorities are shifting, how far digital capabilities have matured, where organisations plan to invest and what enables transformation to succeed.
The survey covers six key areas
- Procurement function priorities
- Digitalisation today
- The transformation roadmap
- AI and other key themes
- Sector perspectives
- Regional perspectives
Respondent geography
- Europe: 63.3%
- Asia and Oceania: 15.0%
- Americas: 11.2%
- Africa: 10.5%
In addition, 31% of respondents are Chief Procurement Officers (CPOs) or members of an Executive Committee.
Procurement priorities Financial performance remains #1 strategic priority
Financial performance remains procurement's leading strategic priority at 59%, while digital transformation stands at 49%. AI enters the ranking for the first time at 27%, already placing fourth.
The transformation agenda is broadening from cost and systems towards AI, contracts, supplier management and enterprise risk.
AI deep dive Appetite is broad but adoption is still at an early stage
The question is shifting from whether procurement will use AI to how organisations can move from experimentation to responsible, scalable value creation.
Intake and orchestration Route requests to the right process, supplier and approvals. |
Automated spend analysis Clean and classify spend data to inform category strategies. |
Intelligent sourcing Support market research, RFx development and bid scenario analysis. |
Contract intelligence Review and draft contracts and check standard terms. |
Source: AI adoption deep dive, PwC Global Digital Procurement Survey 2026.
Business transformation Transformation is a business challenge, not just a technology challenge
Respondents place organisational factors ahead of many technical considerations. Cross-functional engagement, clear requirements and post-go-live change management sit at the centre of successful deployment.
Sector perspectives Different industries, different transformation pressures
The 2026 report includes dedicated sector summaries, allowing procurement leaders to benchmark the drivers, maturity and investment priorities most relevant to their operating environment.
Financial services
Efficiency and simplicity dominate the agenda, while digitisation also supports third-party risk, contract compliance and margin protection.
Manufacturing
Global multi-tier supply networks, cost volatility and reshoring increase the need for digital visibility, resilience and cost control.
Technology and telecoms
AI-assisted procurement can help manage vendor complexity, software estates and cost governance across fast-moving technology spend.
Healthcare and pharma
Digital procurement supports supply continuity, quality and compliance in an environment where supplier performance can be mission-critical.
PwC's global digital procurement survey 2026
Download the full study
Continue the conversation
Discuss what the 2026 findings mean for your procurement operating model, technology roadmap and AI agenda.
