Procurement Act 2023 – information for suppliers
Public Procurement law is changing.
As a result, we want to keep our suppliers both:
- supported, and
- up to date
The new Procurement Act 2023 should go live on the 28 October 2024. This will replace the existing regulations.
The new act is a UK law that regulates public procurement by contracting authorities. Its aim is to improve the country's public procurement system. The intention is to make it quicker, simpler, more transparent, and better able to meet the UK's needs. All whilst sticking to the rules both:
- nationally, and
- internationally
We want you to know about the changes if your business:
- sells goods, or
- provides services, and
- wants to work with organisations in the public sector
This new act will benefit suppliers of all sizes.
More information and support
We have provided useful links that will help you to understand these changes.
- visit the Government website to access the guidance on Short Guide for Suppliers
- visit the Government website to access the guidance on Transforming Public Procurement Knowledge Drops, which includes:
- KD3: Knowledge Drops for Suppliers parts one to three, and
- KD3b: Knowledge Drops for SME/VCSEs parts one to three
- watch The Procurement Act 2023: for suppliers video
- watch The Procurement Act 2023: A summary guide for suppliers video
New features
For suppliers, several new features will facilitate doing business with contracting authorities:
Central digital platform
A centralised digital platform allows suppliers to register and store their details. This will:
- streamline the process for multiple bids
- provide a comprehensive view of opportunities
Simplified bidding processes
This will make it easier for suppliers to:
- engage
- negotiate
- collaborate
with the public sector. This includes introducing a new 'competitive flexible' procedure.
Flexible commercial frameworks
Commercial frameworks will be more flexible. This will make sure that future suppliers are not excluded for long periods.
Barriers consideration
Contracting authorities now need to think about the challenges small businesses/charities face throughout the process.
This levels the playing field, enabling smaller businesses to compete for more contracts.
Prompt payment provisions
Stronger provisions ensure on time payments throughout the supply chain. Small businesses can now enjoy 30-day payment terms across a broader range of public sector contracts.
Tougher exclusions framework
There will be tougher action against poorly performing suppliers through a stronger exclusion's framework.