Open Framework

Framework agreements are one of the most widely used tools in UK public procurement, allowing buyers to pre-qualify a group of suppliers and then call off contracts without running a full competition each time. The Procurement Act 2023 introduced a significant innovation: the open framework, which allows new suppliers to join an existing framework arrangement on a rolling basis.

What is an open framework?

An open framework is a framework agreement where the list of appointed suppliers is not fixed at the outset. Instead, the contracting authority runs periodic admission exercises, allowing suppliers who were not part of the original competition to join the framework during its lifetime. The Act requires that open frameworks conduct these admission exercises at least every three years and must remain open for the full term of the framework (which may be up to eight years, compared to four years for closed frameworks).

The open framework model solves a persistent problem with traditional framework agreements: by the time a four-year framework reaches year three, the market has often moved on, newer suppliers with better solutions or prices have emerged, and the buyer is locked into a pool that no longer represents the best the market can offer. Open frameworks allow the supplier pool to refresh over time, reflecting market development and keeping competition alive.

When a buyer wishes to call off a contract from an open framework, it either runs a competitive award among framework suppliers or, where the framework terms permit and criteria are met, makes a direct award without a further mini-competition.

Why it matters for bidders

For suppliers who were not part of the original framework tender, open frameworks create a genuine route to market that did not exist under the old rules. Rather than waiting for a framework to expire before competing for a place, suppliers can join at the next admission exercise, provided they meet the selection criteria and pass the evaluation.

For suppliers already on the framework, open frameworks mean ongoing competition from new entrants. Maintaining quality, pricing, and service standards throughout the framework term becomes more important because a new entrant can take future call-off business if the buyer runs a mini-competition.

Example

A central purchasing body establishes an open framework for cloud computing services with an initial appointment of 20 suppliers. The framework runs for eight years. At the three-year mark, the body runs an admission exercise and accepts 5 additional suppliers who have developed new capabilities since the original competition. Buyers using the framework can call off contracts from the full pool of 25 suppliers, ensuring access to the most current market offerings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find out about open framework admission exercises?

Admission exercises for open frameworks must be advertised on Find a Tender in the same way as new framework competitions. Monitoring the platform and setting up alerts for your sector is the most reliable way to identify these opportunities.

Can any type of buyer use an open framework?

Yes. Any covered buyer within scope of the Procurement Act 2023 may establish or access an open framework, provided it was set up in compliance with the Act.

What is the maximum duration of an open framework?

Open frameworks may run for up to eight years under the Procurement Act 2023, which is twice the maximum for closed frameworks. The longer duration is intended to justify the investment in the admission infrastructure.