Did you know that Public Procurement is due to be changing in 2023? The good news is that the changes are designed to benefit SMEs.
So, why is it changing?
- To create a simpler and more flexible, commercial system that better meets our country’s needs while remaining compliant with our international obligations.
- To open up public procurement to new entrants such as small businesses and social enterprises so that they can compete for and win more public contracts.
- To embed transparency throughout the commercial lifecycle so that the spending of taxpayers’ money can be properly scrutinised.
And what will the changes mean?
- One joined up procurement system meaning that suppliers/bidders only have to give their core credentials once and in one place.
- The new regulations will provide greater account of social value which will support the transition to net zero carbon emissions.
- Procurement professionals in the public sector will have the flexibility to use their commercial skills, allowing negotiation with suppliers or designing procurement processes in ways to suit suppliers or the public sector.
These are all positive changes (and in some cases are happening already). Opening up public procurement to new entrants is critical, especially in cutting edge technologies where the health sector is involved.
The key to it all must be simplicity in process. This doesn’t mean the simplicity in winning business of course as it will still be a competitive environment that requires bidders to stand out, but if the process is simplified and consistent it will ensure potential bidders aren’t scared off before they start.
Winning Tenders will continue to keep abreast of developments and update our clients and connections accordingly, ahead of ‘Go-Live’, which is anticipated to be Autumn 2023.