How often should benchmarking be allowed?

Typically once a year or every two years; too frequent and it becomes disruptive, too rare and the contract drifts off market.

Who pays for the benchmarking exercise?

Usually the customer commissions it, but a common compromise is to split costs or shift them to the supplier if a large gap is found.

What qualifies as a like-for-like comparison?

The comparison must account for the same service scope, volumes, SLA levels, and support model. A benchmark that ignores customisation or scale will produce a misleading result.

What happens if the supplier disputes the benchmarker's findings?

The clause should set an escalation path: discussion within a set period, then referral to an independent expert whose decision is final and binding.

Can the supplier refuse to adjust prices after a benchmark?

Only if the clause gives discretion rather than a binding obligation. Customers should insist on automatic adjustment or, at minimum, a clear termination right if the supplier refuses.

Benchmarking Clause

Lets a customer periodically test contract pricing or service levels against the wider market.

Cos'e

A benchmarking clause gives the customer a right to have an independent expert compare the supplier's prices and service levels against a representative market sample. If the contract is materially out of line, the parties adjust the terms.

Perché conta

In long outsourcing or managed-service deals, prices set at signing can drift far above market over several years. Benchmarking keeps a long contract competitive without forcing the customer to re-tender.

Come applicarla

Define the comparison sample, the metrics benchmarked, and how often it may be run.
Appoint a neutral benchmarker and agree who bears the cost of the exercise.
Set a materiality threshold that triggers a price or service adjustment.
State the consequence: automatic adjustment, renegotiation, or a termination right.

Consigli per la negoziazione

• Suppliers should require a like-for-like comparison reflecting volume and service scope.
• Customers should secure a binding adjustment rather than a mere obligation to discuss.

Errori frequenti

• A vague comparison basis that lets the supplier dismiss any unfavourable result.
• No consequence attached to the benchmark, making the clause toothless.

Riferimenti normativi

BW 6:248 Reasonableness and fairness Diritto olandese

Salvo diversa indicazione, i riferimenti riguardano il diritto olandese (Burgerlijk Wetboek, il Codice Civile olandese); gli strumenti UE come il GDPR si applicano in tutta l'UE. Si tratta di informazioni generali, non di consulenza legale. Altre giurisdizioni trattano questi concetti in modo diverso. Verifichi il testo vigente e la propria situazione con un avvocato qualificato.

Domande frequenti

Domande comuni su questa clausola.