Why frameworks matter: Getting onto the right framework can generate recurring revenue from hundreds of public sector buyers without competing for each contract individually. Framework call-offs — orders placed under existing frameworks — represent a significant proportion of all public sector spending. PSIP tracks framework competition windows and call-off notices across all seven portals.
How framework agreements work
Competition to join the framework
The framework owner (e.g. CCS, ESPO) runs an open competition. Suppliers apply by demonstrating financial standing, technical capability and compliance. Successful suppliers are appointed for the framework duration — typically 4 years.
Buyers call off against the framework
Authorised buyers access the framework and either direct award to a single supplier (where justified) or run a mini-competition among framework suppliers. The full tender process is replaced by this shorter, faster call-off mechanism.
Contract awarded and published
Above-threshold call-offs result in contract award notices published on Find a Tender and Contracts Finder. PSIP tracks these notices so you can monitor competitor wins and buyer activity even when you are on the framework.
Major UK public sector framework organisations
Crown Commercial Service (CCS)
crowncommercial.gov.ukThe UK's largest public procurement organisation. CCS manages frameworks available to all UK public sector bodies across technology, facilities management, professional services, fleet, energy, and more.
Key frameworks: G-Cloud, Technology Products & Services (TPS), FM & Security Services (RM6378), Management Consultancy (MCF4), Legal Services
NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS)
nhssbs.nhs.ukNHS-specific frameworks for clinical and non-clinical procurement, used by NHS trusts and integrated care boards across England.
Key frameworks: Soft FM, Hard FM, Professional Services, IT, Clinical Supplies
Eastern Shires Purchasing Organisation (ESPO)
espo.orgCollaborative procurement for councils, schools and public bodies, particularly in the East and East Midlands. Available nationally.
Key frameworks: Facilities Management, IT, Office Supplies, Food, Education
Yorkshire Purchasing Organisation (YPO)
ypo.co.ukOne of the UK's largest public sector buying organisations, widely used by councils, schools and public bodies — particularly in the North of England.
Key frameworks: Cleaning, FM, IT, Education Resources, Construction
Scotland Excel
scotland-excel.org.ukScotland's centre of procurement expertise for local government. Manages collaborative frameworks used by all 32 Scottish councils and associated bodies.
Key frameworks: Construction, FM, Social Care, Fleet, Food
Procurement Wales
procurementservice.walesWelsh Government collaborative frameworks available to Welsh public sector bodies across a range of categories.
Key frameworks: IT, Professional Services, FM, Construction, Transport
Frequently asked questions
What is a framework agreement in public procurement?
A framework agreement is a pre-competed agreement between a contracting authority and one or more suppliers, setting out the terms under which individual contracts can be awarded. Buyers who are authorised to use the framework can place call-off orders directly or run a shorter further competition (mini-competition) among framework suppliers, without running a full open tender for each requirement.
What is the difference between a direct award and a mini-competition?
A direct award allows a buyer to select a single framework supplier without any further competitive process, where the terms of the call-off are fully specified in the framework and there is objective justification for the choice. A mini-competition invites all suppliers on the relevant lot to submit proposals for a specific requirement. Mini-competitions are more common for higher-value or complex call-offs.
How do I get onto a public sector framework?
Framework competition windows are advertised on Find a Tender. Suppliers apply during an open competition period by completing a selection questionnaire, providing financial and technical capability evidence, and in some cases submitting pricing. Successful applicants are appointed to the framework for its duration, typically 2-4 years. PSIP alerts you when new framework competitions are published.
How long do framework agreements last?
Most UK public sector framework agreements last 4 years (the maximum permitted under the Procurement Regulations, with some exceptions). Some specialist frameworks run for 2-3 years. Dynamic Purchasing Systems can run indefinitely. When a framework expires, the contracting authority typically runs a new competition for a successor framework.
Which is the most important framework for each sector?
For IT: Crown Commercial Service Technology Products and Services (TPS) and G-Cloud. For FM: CCS RM6378. For construction: Crown Works Construction Framework. For professional services: various CCS and regional frameworks. For healthcare: NHS Shared Business Services sector frameworks. The most important framework depends on your target buyer — large buyers often have their own frameworks.
Can SMEs get onto public sector frameworks?
Yes. The government has explicit policies to improve SME access to frameworks. Many CCS frameworks have lots designed for SMEs, and regional frameworks like YPO, ESPO and Scotland Excel often have lower turnover requirements than large national frameworks. Some frameworks specifically require prime contractors to subcontract a proportion of work to SMEs.
Track framework competitions and call-offs
PSIP alerts you when framework competition windows open and tracks call-off notices across all seven UK portals. 7-day free trial, no credit card required.
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