The New Procurement Act 2023 has been officially launched today (24th February 2025). It aims to improve and streamline public procurement processes, benefiting suppliers of all sizes, particularly small businesses, start-ups and social enterprises.
What you need to know!
Supplier Registration:
A new 'FREE' supplier registration system will allow businesses to "tell them once," on the The Find a Tender Service, reducing the need to register on multiple platforms. The Bill also prevents unnecessary barriers for smaller businesses, such as requiring audited accounts or insurance before contract award.
Note: You will need to re-register if you have previously done so before
Invitation to Tender:
A centralised platform will publish tender notices on The Find a Tender Service, making it easier for businesses to find and bid for contracts. Email notifications will alert businesses to new opportunities.
Commercial Pipelines:
The Bill requires large contracting authorities to publish an 18-month forward look of upcoming contracts over £2m. This will help businesses plan and prepare for opportunities.
Preliminary Market Engagement:
Clear rules around pre-market engagement will encourage authorities to engage with a diverse range of suppliers, fostering innovation and new ideas.
Procurement Flexibility:
The new Competitive Flexible procedure allows contracting authorities to design their own procurement processes, benefiting complex or innovative solutions. Dynamic Markets will enable suppliers to join at any time, and longer-term frameworks will have opening points for new entrants.
Feedback for Unsuccessful Bids:
Unsuccessful bidders will receive an assessment summary, helping them understand where they fell short and how to improve future bids.
Contract Management:
The Bill ensures 30-day payment terms throughout public sector supply chains, benefiting smaller businesses working with prime contractors.
Greater Oversight:
A new Procurement Review Unit (PRU) has been established to oversee public procurement. The PRU includes the existing Public Procurement Review Service (PPRS), a new Procurement Compliance Service (PCS), and a new Debarment Review Service (DRS).
Check out the summary documents and videos available here Information and Guidance for Suppliers where you can also sign up for regular updates and access Knowledge Drop videos for a broader understanding of the Act.
