Date: 6th Feb 2018 By: Ria Logan length: 10 minutes Tags: Beginner Procurement Regulations
A framework is a contract awarded normally to several suppliers (usually 3 or more), although technically it could be awarded to a sole supplier. All CPC frameworks comply with European Union Procurement Regulations which are available to view in the attached file.
In consideration of thresholds that members must abide by, these are now detailed below
When CPC go to market for a framework, we always assess the technical, financial and operating ability of all bidders as well as giving due consideration to their commercial proposal. These are the selection and award phases.
The selection criteria will examine such areas as;
Some of these areas are simple pass/fail questions, whilst some allow for discretion by the consortia.
The award criteria will consider such areas as;
When creating a framework, CPC carefully examine the marketplace to ascertain whether a particular framework should be broken down into various lots. A Lot could be defined as being similar to a sub-heading for example, Hair, Beauty and Wigs is the framework title, but the framework is then split into Lots
Lots make it easier for members to identify their needs and by utilising a Lot structure, CPC can introduce a wider range of suppliers to cover each aspect of the framework.
Some frameworks allow members to make a direct award on a framework normally where a single supplier has clearly been identified as the top scoring supplier at the tender stage wither on the framework or a particular Lot.
Instructions on undertaking a Direct Award are covered within the CPC User Guide published with each framework.
If a direct award is not possible, then the member will need to undertake a further or mini competition which is the CPC prescribed route. In doing so the following applies;
There are many benefits in utilising a framework contract which include;
As a CPC member, access is granted to the following tendering resources;
CPC frameworks are fully EU compliant, easy to use and come with a range of documentation to assist our members. They also provide proven value for money and are available to use free of charge.
We offer various routes to market for members all underpinned by great customer service via our Helpdesk, Regional Procurement Advisors and Contracting Teams.