Mini-Competition

A mini-competition is a focused tendering exercise conducted within the boundaries of a framework agreement. Rather than awarding each call-off directly to a single supplier (which is permitted where the framework terms are sufficiently specific), the contracting authority invites all framework suppliers capable of performing the particular requirement to submit a tailored offer. The mini-competition winner receives the call-off contract.

What is a Mini-Competition?

Under Article 33 of Directive 2014/24/EU, when a framework agreement has been concluded with multiple suppliers and not all terms are fully specified for individual call-offs, the contracting authority must re-open competition via a mini-competition before awarding each call-off. The invitation to participate is sent simultaneously and in writing to all framework suppliers who are capable of fulfilling the particular requirement.

A mini-competition is not a new procurement procedure. It operates entirely within the scope of the original framework agreement. This means the contracting authority cannot introduce requirements, evaluation criteria, or terms that go beyond what was established at the framework level. The mini-competition refines competition on the terms already set: it does not expand or change them.

The contracting authority sets a deadline for submission that takes into account the complexity of the requirement and the time needed to prepare responses. Mini-competitions can be conducted by exchange of emails, through a dedicated e-procurement portal, or via an electronic auction where the subject matter is suitable.

In the UK, the equivalent process under the Procurement Act 2023 and Crown Commercial Service frameworks operates under the same logic, though the specific documentation requirements differ.

Why it matters for bidders

Being admitted to a framework agreement is necessary but not sufficient: you must compete successfully in each mini-competition to actually win call-off business. Companies that win framework places but fail to invest in mini-competition responses often find that the framework generates very little revenue.

Effective mini-competition strategy involves understanding the buyer's specific requirement, tailoring the response to that requirement within the framework scope, and pricing competitively relative to the framework maximum prices you submitted at the outset. Because the framework already established your basic credentials and overall price ceiling, mini-competitions focus evaluation effort on specific fit, methodology, and price for the particular call-off.

Example

A Swedish national framework for IT consulting services has twelve suppliers across four lots. When a government agency needs a six-month cybersecurity project, it runs a mini-competition, sending identical invitations to the four suppliers in the relevant lot. Each supplier submits a methodology, a proposed team, and a day rate for the specific engagement. The agency evaluates on quality (60%) and price (40%) and awards the call-off contract to the highest-scoring supplier within four weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a buyer award a call-off directly without a mini-competition?

Yes, in limited circumstances. Where the framework agreement sets all the terms necessary for the award, including price, specification, and delivery conditions, a direct call-off is permitted without re-opening competition. This is most common in supply frameworks for standard commodities where the catalogue price is fully fixed.

Can a framework supplier be excluded from a mini-competition?

A supplier can be excluded from a specific mini-competition if they are not capable of performing the particular requirement (for example, they are admitted to a different lot), or if they are in a mandatory exclusion ground. General dissatisfaction with past performance is not a sufficient basis for exclusion without a formal process.

Is there a minimum time limit for mini-competition responses?

The directive does not prescribe a minimum period, but contracting authorities must give sufficient time for framework suppliers to prepare meaningful responses. In practice, periods of five to twenty working days are common, depending on the complexity of the requirement.

Can new suppliers join a framework to participate in mini-competitions?

No. Only suppliers admitted to the framework at the time of its establishment (or when a new lot was added, if the framework allows admission during its term via a dynamic structure) can participate in mini-competitions. New suppliers must wait for the next framework to be established.