How we procure goods and services
Our procurement process
The value of a contracts determines if we need to:
- ask suppliers for written quotes
- carry out a full competitive tender exercise
- follow a procurement process in line with European Union (EU) procurement directives
We will make the procurement process we’re following clear when we advertise the contract.
If a contract has a lot of interested from suppliers, we will carry out a pre-qualification process.
Some of our work is specialist and demanding, and takes place at short notice. In these circumstances, we find suitable suppliers from existing framework agreements.
How we advertise contracts
We advertise our live tenders and add them to Contracts Finder.
If a contract is over the EU financial thresholds, we will advertise it in the supplement of the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU).
How we select suppliers
We select supplies based on the best overall demonstration of value for money.
When deciding on value for money, we also consider:
- quality
- reliability
- experience
- timely delivery
- price
What suppliers need to show us
In a tender submission, potential suppliers need to show us their financial, commercial and technical capability to fully meet the requirements of the contract.
We will also take into account the supplier’s past performance with similar contracts, both with us and other organisations. We may request references from previous or existing customers, bankers and business information companies. We may also arrange a site reference visit.
Additionally, we will be looking for a clear demonstration of commitment to:
- equal opportunities in employment
- the environment
- safe systems of working