Closed Framework

Framework agreements are a cornerstone of UK public procurement strategy, enabling buyers to pre-select a group of capable suppliers and draw down contracts throughout the framework period without running a full competition each time. The Procurement Act 2023 formalised two distinct types of framework: the open framework with rolling admission, and the closed framework with a fixed supplier membership.

What is a closed framework?

A closed framework is a framework agreement where the number and identity of appointed suppliers is determined entirely at the outset. Once the framework is awarded, no new suppliers can join. The framework membership remains fixed for the duration of the arrangement, which may not exceed four years under the Act.

The closed framework closely resembles the framework agreement structure that existed under the Public Contracts Regulations 2015, which in turn implemented Directive 2014/24/EU. Buyers run a single initial competition, evaluate all applicants against published selection and award criteria, appoint the successful suppliers, and then call off individual contracts from that fixed pool either through a competitive award (a mini-competition among framework suppliers) or, where permitted by the framework terms, a direct award to the most suitable supplier without a further competition.

Under the Procurement Act 2023, closed frameworks must specify in their published documents whether call-offs will be made by direct award or competitive award, and the conditions for each route must be set out in advance.

Why it matters for bidders

For suppliers who win a place on a closed framework, the benefits are predictable: a defined period (up to four years) during which buyers can call on you without a fresh competition for each contract, and a degree of market certainty while the framework runs. The closed membership also means no new competitors can join mid-term.

For suppliers who miss the initial appointment, a closed framework is a complete market barrier until it expires. Monitoring upcoming framework competitions and prioritising bids for frameworks in your sector is therefore critical. Once a closed framework is awarded, the only route to that buyer market may be through subcontracting to an appointed supplier.

Example

A regional NHS commissioning body establishes a closed framework for medical equipment supply with eight appointed suppliers. The framework runs for four years. NHS trusts in the region can call off contracts directly from those eight suppliers using the mini-competition process set out in the framework. A new medical equipment supplier that enters the UK market during year two of the framework has no route to these contracts until the framework expires and a new one is tendered.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can a closed framework last?

A maximum of four years under the Procurement Act 2023. This mirrors the limit that applied under the 2015 Regulations. An open framework may run for up to eight years.

Can a buyer add suppliers to a closed framework after award?

No. Once a closed framework is awarded, membership is fixed. Adding suppliers would constitute a material modification to the framework agreement, which is not permitted. Buyers who need to expand their supplier pool must either wait for the framework to expire or establish a separate arrangement.

How is a closed framework call-off advertised?

Mini-competitions within a closed framework do not require a new public notice on Find a Tender. Buyers invite all framework suppliers (or a relevant subset defined by the framework terms) to compete and notify them directly. The subsequent contract award must be reported in a contract details notice.