Framework agreements are a vital tool in public sector procurement, offering a streamlined, compliant, and efficient way for organisations to purchase goods, services, or works. At HealthTrust Europe, we specialise in providing OJEU-compliant frameworks that simplify procurement while delivering exceptional value, quality and resource to support sourcing and procurement teams.
What Is a Framework Agreement?
A framework agreement is a pre-established contract between one or more buyers (such as public sector organisations) and suppliers. It sets out the terms, conditions, and pricing for procuring specific goods, services, or works over a defined period. Frameworks act as a compliant procurement route, enabling public sector organisations to avoid the lengthy process of going to market for every requirement, which devours resource and time.
Key Features of Framework Agreements
Pre-approved Suppliers: Only suppliers that meet strict quality and compliance standards are included.
Flexibility: Organisations can call off (purchase) goods or services as needed, without having to start a new procurement process.
Defined Terms: Pricing, service levels, and delivery conditions are pre-negotiated for clarity and consistency.
Why Use a Framework Agreement?
Frameworks are designed to make procurement faster, easier, and more compliant. They offer a host of benefits:
1.Time Savings
Frameworks eliminate the need for a full procurement process every time an organisation requires a product or service. Instead, public sector bodies can quickly “call off” what they need from the framework.
2.Value for Money
Frameworks leverage the collective buying power of multiple organisations to secure competitive pricing and favourable terms.
3.Legal Compliance
All HealthTrust Europe frameworks are fully compliant with UK procurement laws, including the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and gradually the more recent Procurement Act 2023.
4.Trusted Suppliers
Suppliers undergo a rigorous selection process, ensuring they meet high standards for quality, sustainability, and compliance, giving you confidence in continuity of supply.
5.Simplified Procurement
Frameworks are particularly effective for complex or high-value procurements, offering pre-negotiated terms and reducing administrative burdens. (See Case Studies Here)
Types of Framework Agreements
Frameworks can vary in structure and scope depending on the needs of the organisation. At HealthTrust Europe, we provide:
- Single-Supplier Frameworks: Ideal for specialised needs where a single supplier can provide the best solution.
- Multi-Supplier Frameworks: Offering a range of approved suppliers to encourage competition and choice.
- Direct Award or Mini-Competition: Organisations can either directly select a supplier or run a mini-competition among framework suppliers for more tailored solutions. HTE will often run these mini-competitions on behalf of the authority with no charge to save valuable resource and time.
HealthTrust Europe’s Framework Expertise
As a trusted procurement partner to the public sector, HealthTrust Europe offers a portfolio of over 100 innovative and flexible frameworks designed to deliver measurable value. Our frameworks cover a wide range of categories, including:
- Healthcare Supplies and Services
- Technology and all IT Solutions
- Facilities Management
- Consultancy and Legal Services
How We Support You
- End-to-End Guidance: From selecting the right framework to managing call-offs, our procurement experts are here to assist and support every step of the way.
- Cost Savings: We help organisations unlock significant financial efficiencies through our competitive frameworks.
- Sustainability: All our frameworks prioritise socially responsible and environmentally sustainable sourcing.
- Technology-Driven Solutions: With advanced tools, we simplify and automate the call-off process for our clients.
- Free Resource: From specification to running mini-competitions, our support saves you time and valuable resource, so you can focus on other priorities.
The Process: Using a HealthTrust Europe Framework
- Identify Your Needs: Determine what goods or services you require.
- Choose the Framework: Select the most appropriate HealthTrust Europe framework for your needs.
- Call-Off Options: Decide whether to use direct award or conduct a mini-competition.
- Contract Award: Place your order with the selected supplier and benefit from the pre-agreed terms.
- Ongoing Support: HealthTrust Europe remains available for guidance throughout the life of the agreement.
Why Choose HealthTrust Europe?
At HealthTrust Europe, we are committed to delivering procurement solutions that are efficient, compliant, and value-driven. Our Unified Hub makes it easy to access all your information and contracts with one login. Our frameworks provide:
- Access to trusted suppliers.
- Simplified procurement processes.
- Significant cost savings.
- Expert guidance and ongoing support.
Get Started Today
Whether you’re procuring for healthcare, technology, or professional services, HealthTrust Europe’s framework agreements offer the ideal solution. Contact us today to learn more about how our frameworks can help you achieve your procurement goals.
By Phone: +44 (0)845 887 5000
By Email: customercare@htepg.com
Unified Hub: Unified Hub – HealthTrust Europe
