Our tendering process

Types of tendering process

We mainly use two types of tendering process:

• Open tender when the tender document is made available to anyone interested in the tender opportunity.
• Restricted tender when everyone who's interested in a tender opportunity is asked to complete a supplier questionnaire. Only the organisations who are short-listed following receipt of the supplier questionnaire will be invited to tender.

We also use Frameworks and DPSs (Dynamic Purchasing System) for frequently purchased goods and services. Bidders can apply to join using a supplier questionnaire and self assess that they meet the contract minimum standards. If bidders are accepted onto the contract there is no guarantee of business, however they will then have opportunities to bid for contracts let within the Framework or DPS using mini competitions using template documentation for the Framework or DPS.

Market engagement and bidder events

We endeavour to undertake Market Engagement prior to tendering. Depending on the complexity and nature of the tender, we may also sometimes hold an open event during the tender process.

The Procurement Act Implementation has been delayed until 24 February 2025.