Sectoral differences in public procurement maturity: findings from the Finnish public procurement maturity model

Purpose This study aims to analyse sector-specific maturity in Finnish public organisations, including governmental, municipal and other public-sector organisations. The focus is on perceived importance and maturity of procurement covering procurement processes and agility. Design/methodology/approach The Finnish Public Procurement Maturity Model (PMM) was used to compare sectors based on self-assessments of procurement importance and maturity across key capability areas. Survey data from Finnish public organisations (n = 184) were analysed using ANOVA to compare sectoral differences in perceived procurement importance and maturity. Findings Municipalities and other public organisations prioritise procurement development more than central government, especially innovative procurement and sustainability. Maturity differences are smaller and mainly structural, as the central government shows higher maturity in core processes. Overall, innovative procurement remains low in maturity, exposing a persistent importance–maturity gap. Research limitations/implications The study relies on self-assessed survey data and may therefore reflect some subjective perceptions. Future research should use longitudinal approach to assess maturity changes and build international settings for generalisability. Practical implications The results guide targeted improvements and help policymakers focus system-level support on areas where innovation and sustainability are prioritised but not yet embedded in mature routines. The findings also show that many organisations recognise emerging priorities but their routines remain underdeveloped. Social implications Procurement maturity improves transparency and accountability. By highlighting agility- and collaboration capability gaps, the study supports more responsive procurement practices that enhance public value. Originality/value The study offers national-level evidence on sectoral differences in public procurement maturity in Finland. By focusing on importance–maturity gaps, the study shows a mismatch between priorities and practice, and highlights the need for support in benchmarking, organisational development and policy design.