Removing the auto-renewal clause is essential for maintaining negotiation leverage during each contract period. Emphasize that your finance/legal team requires this condition due to recent changes in policy. This can help you revisit terms at each renewal, ensuring they align with your current needs.
Negotiate to eliminate any proposed uplift in contract pricing by emphasizing your historical value and consistent usage. Customer relationships often warrant more favorable terms, especially when there's been stable usage without significant service changes.
Introduce competitive offerings that may serve similar functions at lower prices. Share the specifics of any alternatives to prompt the seller to reconsider their pricing or terms to maintain your business.
Offer to provide case studies or testimonials as a way of demonstrating the effectiveness of their product. This added marketing value can often be leveraged for better pricing or terms.
Make sure to get internal approvals secured before making your final negotiation requests. This establishes credibility in discussions and allows you to leverage that strength when asking for reductions.