The main function of Crescent Purchasing (CPC) is to produce frameworks for our members to use. To become a CPC supplier you must be awarded a place on one of our framework agreements.

A supplier can be awarded a place on a framework only once they have successfully been through a full tender process.

You can view which frameworks are coming up for tender by visiting the Contracting Pipeline. The Contracting Pipeline lists all tendering opportunities providing details of the contracting authority and the expected award date.

Most CPC frameworks are awarded for a period of 2 to 4 years and we are unable to add suppliers to an existing framework part way through a contract term. CPC tender opportunities are often advertised through CPC's preferred tendering tool, MultiQuote. If you have not already done so, please ensure your company is registered in order to view any tenders CPC release.

NB. Several CPC frameworks are run by other contracting authorities such as the HE Consortia. If the Contracting Authority is not CPC, you will need to contact the lead consortia in order to gain access to their preferred tendering portal. If you are in doubt, please contact the CPC Helpdesk for assistance.

Member and supplier engagement will typically commence 6 months prior to the award date of a framework. CPC therefore recommend that suppliers check the Contracting Pipeline as often as practicable in advance of the expected award date in order to ensure that a framework opportunity is not missed.

Please note we do not hold relationships with suppliers outside of a framework environment, and we only set up frameworks in new areas upon the request of our members.

If you require any assistance with this process, please contact our Helpdesk who will be more than happy to assist.

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