Introduce competitive alternatives to the discussion to leverage better pricing. Ensure the vendor understands you have valid competitors offering similar functionalities at lower prices. This could provide a significant advantage in obtaining discounts or more favorable terms.
Request that any auto-renewal clauses be removed from the contract. This gives you the flexibility to renegotiate on terms each year and provides leverage during renewals.
Offer to provide a case study or act as a reference for the vendor in exchange for pricing concessions. This serves as a lever to strengthen your negotiation position by providing the vendor with marketing value.
When the proposed renewal includes an uplift that exceeds your budget or expectations, push back and request that this uplift be reduced or removed altogether. Highlight budget constraints and past performance to support your position.
If there has been a change to the pricing model that negatively impacts your budget, use this as leverage to negotiate pricing back to previous levels. Stipulate that you should not be subject to price increases without prior notification.