Maximizing The Procurement Act 2025 Reform Opportunities


The Procurement Act 2025, effective from February 24, 2025, introduces significant reforms to public sector procurement in the UK. A notable feature of this legislation is the introduction of 'open frameworks,' designed to enhance flexibility and competitiveness in public procurement. For local authorities and the wider public sector, this presents an opportune moment to reassess procurement strategies, explore new providers, and achieve optimal outcomes in cost, quality, and service delivery. We will be covering a number of topics in this resource to support our partners to maximize the opportunity this new shift presents.

 
We will be covering the following topics:


  • Understanding Open Frameworks

  • Implications for Public Sector Procurement

  • Strategic Considerations for Local Authorities

  • How BookingLive Can Support

  • Case Studies: BookingLive's Impact in the Public Sector


Understanding Open Frameworks


The Procurement Act 2025 introduces 'open frameworks' to enhance flexibility and competitiveness in public sector procurement. Traditional frameworks often locked in suppliers for up to four years, limiting opportunities for new entrants and potentially stifling innovation. Open frameworks address these limitations by allowing contracting authorities to periodically reopen frameworks, admitting new suppliers during the agreement's lifespan. This approach fosters a more dynamic and competitive supplier environment, encouraging innovation and potentially leading to better value for public sector organizations.​

Key Features of Open Frameworks:



  • Extended Duration: Open frameworks can last up to eight years, double the typical four-year term of traditional frameworks. This extended period allows for longer-term planning and stability in procurement strategies.

  • Periodic Reopening: Contracting authorities are required to reopen the framework at least once within the first three years and at least every five years thereafter. This ensures that new suppliers have opportunities to join, maintaining a competitive and innovative supplier base. ​

  • Substantially Consistent Terms: While open frameworks allow for the inclusion of new suppliers, the terms remain substantially the same throughout their duration. This consistency provides clarity and stability for both buyers and suppliers. ​


Benefits of Open Frameworks:



  • Enhanced Competition: Regularly introducing new suppliers can drive competition, leading to improved services and more competitive pricing.​

  • Increased Flexibility: Open frameworks provide the agility to adapt to changing market conditions and evolving organizational needs without being constrained by long-term agreements.​

  • Access to Innovation: By allowing new entrants, public sector bodies can benefit from innovative solutions and technologies that newer suppliers may offer.​


By implementing open frameworks, public sector organizations can create a more inclusive and dynamic procurement environment, ultimately leading to better value and service delivery for the communities they serve.



Implications for Public Sector Procurement


The Procurement Act 2025 introduces significant reforms aimed at enhancing flexibility, transparency, and inclusivity within public sector procurement. To effectively navigate these changes and capitalize on new opportunities, local authorities and public sector organizations should consider the following strategic approaches:

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Market Engagement

Proactive engagement with the supplier market is essential to understand emerging solutions and assess potential new providers. The Procurement Act 2025 encourages early and transparent pre-market engagement, ensuring that all bidders have access to the same information. This approach enables organizations to refine specifications, foster innovation, and identify suppliers that align with their evolving needs. ​

 
Review Existing Frameworks

Evaluating current framework agreements is crucial to identify opportunities where transitioning to open frameworks could yield better value or service quality. The introduction of open frameworks under the new Act allows contracting authorities to appoint new suppliers throughout the framework's lifespan, fostering increased competition and flexibility. This dynamic approach ensures that public sector organizations can adapt to changing market conditions and access innovative solutions over extended periods. ​

 
Supplier Diversity

Encouraging participation from a broad range of suppliers, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and social enterprises, is vital to fostering a diverse and resilient supply base. The Procurement Act 2025 places a strong emphasis on removing barriers that may disproportionately affect SMEs, advocating for the division of larger contracts into smaller lots to enable greater competition. By actively promoting supplier diversity, public sector organizations can stimulate local economies, drive social value, and access a wider array of innovative solutions. ​

By adopting these strategies, local authorities and public sector organizations can effectively navigate the evolving procurement landscape, ensuring that they achieve optimal outcomes in cost, quality, and service delivery while aligning with the objectives of the Procurement Act 2025.

How BookingLive Can Support


At BookingLive, we understand the evolving procurement landscape and are committed to supporting public sector organizations in navigating these changes. Our online booking and scheduling solutions are designed to enhance citizen engagement and streamline administrative processes. By leveraging the opportunities presented by open frameworks, local authorities can more easily access innovative providers like BookingLive to deliver high-quality services that meet the needs of their communities.

Case Studies: BookingLive's Impact in the Public Sector


Our collaboration with various public sector organizations has yielded significant improvements in service delivery and operational efficiency. Here are some examples:​

 
Cambridgeshire County Council:

Faced with challenges in managing their waste and recycling centers, Cambridgeshire County Council implemented BookingLive's scheduling system. This transformation led to improved operational efficiency and enhanced public access to facilities. ​

 
Charnwood Borough Council:

To boost citizen engagement and streamline appointment scheduling, Charnwood Borough Council adopted our online booking system. The result was a significant reduction in administrative tasks and an increase in online bookings, demonstrating the system's effectiveness in enhancing service delivery. ​

 
Hampshire County Council:

Seeking to increase efficiency and public access to facilities, Hampshire County Council integrated BookingLive's online booking system. This initiative led to improved management of public resources and heightened user satisfaction. ​

 
Wokingham Borough Council:

By implementing BookingLive's appointment scheduling software, Wokingham Borough Council improved citizen booking experiences and reduced administrative time. This transition to an online system enhanced convenience for citizens and streamlined internal processes. ​

 

The introduction of open frameworks under the Procurement Act 2025 marks a pivotal shift in public sector procurement. By embracing these changes, local authorities and public sector organizations can optimize their procurement strategies, achieve better value for money, and deliver enhanced services to the public. BookingLive stands ready to partner with these organizations, offering innovative solutions that align with the new procurement landscape and contribute to the advancement of public services.