Stonewater Limited is seeking a qualified electrical works contractor to deliver an installation upgrade at Windmill Court, Freshbrook, Swindon. The works include full electrical wiring and fitting to ensure safe, compliant, and efficient operation across the
The Insider’s Guide to Frameworks: How to Find Tenders That Pay for Years.
Most businesses fail to grow because they are stuck in a cycle of “one-and-done” contracts. If you want to scale, you need to find tenders that offer long-term stability. This is where Framework Agreements come in. Being awarded a place on a framework doesn’t just give you one job; it makes you a “pre-approved” supplier for a period of typically four to eight years.
1. What is a Framework Agreement?
A framework is essentially a shortlist of vetted suppliers. Public bodies like the NHS or local councils use them to speed up buying. Once you are “on the framework,” the buyer can award you work through:
A framework is essentially a shortlist of vetted suppliers. Public bodies like the NHS or local councils use them to speed up buying. Once you are “on the framework,” the buyer can award you work through:
- Direct Award: They pick you immediately based on pre-agreed terms.
- Mini-Competition: A “lite” version of a tender where only the few firms on the framework compete against each other.
2. Where to Find Framework Tenders
Because frameworks are high-value, they aren’t always on standard job boards. To find tenders of this type, you must monitor:
Because frameworks are high-value, they aren’t always on standard job boards. To find tenders of this type, you must monitor:
- Crown Commercial Service (CCS): The biggest provider of frameworks in the UK.
- Find a Tender Service (FTS): Used for high-value frameworks, typically over £139,688.
- Contracts Finder: Perfect for SMEs looking to find tenders for smaller, regional frameworks over £12,000.
3. The “Open Framework” Secret
Under the Procurement Act 2023, Google-friendly searches should now include “Open Frameworks”. Unlike traditional “closed” frameworks that lock new suppliers out for years, Open Frameworks must reopen at specific points to allow new businesses to join. This is a game-changer for new companies trying to break into the market.
Under the Procurement Act 2023, Google-friendly searches should now include “Open Frameworks”. Unlike traditional “closed” frameworks that lock new suppliers out for years, Open Frameworks must reopen at specific points to allow new businesses to join. This is a game-changer for new companies trying to break into the market.
4. How to Qualify for a Place
To win a spot, you must pass a “Selection Questionnaire” (SQ). Buyers will check your:
To win a spot, you must pass a “Selection Questionnaire” (SQ). Buyers will check your:
- Financial Standing: Usually two years of accounts.
- Technical Ability: Proven case studies of similar work.
- Compliance: Accreditations like ISO 9001 or Cyber Essentials.
Barcud Shared Services and Bron Afon Community Housing Limited are seeking a qualified contractor to carry out full electrical rewires to 42 properties within the borough of Torfaen, Wales. The works include all electrical installation, repair,
City of Wolverhampton College is seeking a qualified contractor to deliver mechanical and electrical (M&E) maintenance across its diverse and evolving estate. The contract includes planned preventative maintenance, statutory compliance testing, reactive repairs, and asset management,
The Industrial Dwellings Society (1885) Ltd seeks a single scaffolding contractor to provide safe, compliant, and responsive scaffolding and temporary access services across its residential property portfolio in London. The contract includes design, erection, hire, inspection,
The Ministry of Justice is seeking suppliers to provide temporary probation operational workers to support the delivery of services for His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service across England and Wales. The contract will supply qualified professionals
Bron Afon Community Housing Limited, supported by Barcud Shared Services, is seeking a contractor to carry out full electrical rewires to 42 residential properties within the borough of Torfaen. The project involves electrical installation and associated
