A framework agreement is an agreement with one or more suppliers/providers which sets out terms and conditions under which individual contracts (call-offs) can be made throughout the term of the agreement.
A framework agreement itself is not a contract, but the call-offs made from it are.
Framework arrangements create a streamlined and flexible process for procuring goods, works or services
Where a framework for the same goods, works or services is awarded to several suppliers, there are three possible options for awarding call-off contracts: direct award (or direct call-off), mini-competition or a combination of both.
Option 1 – Apply the terms of the framework agreement (direct award).
Where your requirements match the terms and/or specification of the framework agreement (in the event of any query, you should clarify the situation with the organisation that established the framework), a particular call-off should be awarded without re-opening competition. The call-off should be awarded to the provider who is identified as the most economically advantageous tender based on the award criteria used at the time that the framework was established (i.e. the supplier ranked no. 1). Randomly selecting a supplier off a framework is not permitted.
Option 2 – Hold a mini-competition between capable suppliers.
If your requirements do not match the terms and/or the specification of the framework, you should conduct a mini-competition exercise. Whilst it is not permitted to substantially change the basic terms or specification of the framework, in running a mini-competition it is possible to supplement or refine the basic terms of the framework prior to making a call-off. Examples of such terms are:
- The particular goods/services/works required;
- Particular delivery timescales;
- Particular invoicing arrangements and payment profiles;
- Associated services such as installation, maintenance and training;
- Quantity;
- Functional specification.
Under no circumstances should brand names or brand-specific descriptions of goods be used e.g. BIC Biro Pen, Hewlett-Packard Printer, Dell computer. Descriptions should give reference to the characteristics and outputs of the product or service. Where no other description is possible, any reference should be qualified by adding the words ‘or equivalent’.
When a mini-competition exercise is held, all suppliers appointed to the framework that are capableof meeting the requirement must be invited to submit a tender. (This might just relate to suppliers within a particular ‘lot’). You must not limit the mini-competition exercise to selected providers. A time limit for submitting the tender must be set and advised to competing suppliers. This time limit must be reasonable, taking account of the complexity of the requirement.
The call-off must be awarded on the basis of the framework award criteria and new criteria cannot be added, although, where permitted, the weightings may be varied to take account of a particular requirement. However, in adjusting the weightings, care must be taken to ensure that any such changes do not have an adverse effect on competition.
Option 3 - Combination of direct award and mini-competition
To use a combination approach, the procurement documents must state that this route may be used. The procurement documents will also specify which terms may be subject to the re-opening of competition.
[Reference:, - Guidance on the Use of Framework Agreements, - CIPS study guide page 60-62, LO 1, AC 1.3, , , ]
