The way we invite bids depends on the value of the contract:

Under the EU threshold

• Quotation
  

  This is a single stage process for contracts below £10,000, which requires that minimum of one quote is obtained and is likely to be undertaken by email.

• Request for tender

  This is a single stage process for contracts between £10,001 and £50,000, which requires a minimum of three pre-selected suppliers to be invited to bid. The process will be undertaken electronically through Supplying the South West Opens in a new window.

• Open tender

  This is usually a single stage process for contracts between £50,001 and the relevant EU threshold, which will be openly advertised through Supplying the South West Opens in a new window and Contracts finder Opens in a new window.
  

Over the relevant EU threshold

The EU sets individual thresholds for:

• the supply of goods and services;
• the provision of works;
• the supply of certain social and other specific services.

These thresholds are reviewed and amended every two years.

All opportunities will be openly advertised through Supplying the South West Opens in a new window, Contracts finder Opens in a new window and the Offical Journal of the European Community Opens in a new window.

• Quotation 
  

  This is a single stage process through which all potential suppliers may submit a tender.

• Restricted tender

  This is a two stage process which allows potential suppliers who satisfy a number of criteria, assessed through a Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ), to be shortlisted to submit a tender.

• Further competition

  This is the process used to make a call-off from an existing Framework Agreement. This process undertaken will be in accordance with the individual Framework requirements.

Existing contracts / Framework agreements

We may decide to use an existing contract or ‘framework agreement’ where it offers best value. These suppliers have already been selected by public sector bodies.

We will engage with organisations previously procured rather than advertising.

Any potential suppliers should make sure they monitor the procurement advertising so they can express an interest in tendering to be included for these types of contracts or framework agreements when they arise.

Collaborative working

There are some contracts where we may work collaboratively with other authorities or public bodies, in order to achieve economies of scale and get better value for money, as well as often offering suppliers a more attractive and more sustainable contract. Generally these opportunities will be advertised through Supplying the South West Opens in a new window.

Complaints

If you have any concerns about the tender process then please contact us or make a complaint.