Procurement Friday Returns with Focus on Frameworks and Below Threshold Contracts

On Friday 25th April, the Echelon Group welcomed the much-anticipated return of its Procurement Friday series, with over 400 attendees joining a session led by procurement law expert Kieran McGaughey. 

As the first in the relaunched series aimed at helping organisations navigate the new Procurement Act, this session focused on two key areas of the legislation: frameworks and below threshold contracts – both essential to understanding and applying the updated regulations effectively.

Kieran also took a more in-depth look at:

Contract Value Calculation: With an emphasis on accurate calculations, Kieran highlighted the importance of estimating total, maximum value, including options and extensions, alongside new rules for contracts with unknown durations.

Suitability and Selection: He outlined the need for a single-stage process below threshold, with no separate stage for assessing supplier suitability (clarifying exceptions for higher-value works contracts)

Notices and Publication: Kieran delved into the requirements for publishing tender and contract details notices below-threshold, specifying thresholds for central and local government.

Prompt Payment Terms: The session addressed the new calculation method for the 30-day payment term, now based on the invoice receipt date, urging updates to internal processes and contract terms.

Frameworks: Common issues and practical tips were shared to ensure compliance, with a spotlight on the new open framework concept introduced under the Procurement Act.

Practical Advice for Effective Procurement:

Kieran provided actionable tips, from using pro-customer contract terms and managing conflicts of interest to ensuring proper debriefing and contract management practices. He also stressed the importance of legal input when completing call-off orders, avoiding potential compliance pitfalls.

The next session in the series will take place on Friday 6 June at 10am.