Procurement Act 2023: Now Live – What You Need to KnowAfter months of preparation and anticipation, the Procurement Act 2023 is now officially live. This marks a significant shift in public procurement, introducing a more transparent, efficient and competitive process. At CHIC, we have been closely following the changes and have published a series of in-depth articles guiding our members through the key aspects of the Act. You can find all these resources on our website. But for now, here’s a summary of what you need to know.
Key Changes Under the Procurement Act 2023The Act simplifies and streamlines procurement rules, replacing existing regulations with a single framework that promotes fair competition and greater transparency. Some of the key changes include:
• Transparency: Mandates the publication of various Notices on the Central Digital Platform (CDP) at key stages on the procurement journey from pre-market engagement through to contract management, enhancing visibility, supplier engagement and accountability in public procurement.
• Compliance and Knowledge: Introduces stricter compliance measures, including mandatory supplier registration on the Central Digital Platform (CDP), to ensure adherence to procurement standards and facilitate knowledge sharing among contracting authorities.
• Performance: Requires the establishment of at least three KPIs for public contracts exceeding £5 million, with annual performance evaluations to ensure suppliers meet contractual obligations and publication of these on the Central Digital Platform (CDP).
• Frameworks: Allows for the creation of both open and closed frameworks, providing contracting authorities with greater flexibility in supplier selection and enabling the inclusion of new suppliers at agreed breaks in the framework's term, up to a maximum of 8 years.
For a detailed breakdown of each of these areas, refer to our previous articles available on the CHIC website.
The Central Digital Platform: What You Need to KnowA crucial aspect of the Procurement Act 2023 is the introduction of the Central Digital Platform, a new online system designed to improve accessibility, transparency and efficiency in public procurement. Here’s why CHIC members should take note:
• What is it? The Central Digital Platform will serve as the go to hub for procurement notices, supplier registrations and contract management. It will centralise key procurement data, making it easier for both buyers and suppliers to access essential information.
• Why Should You Be Aware? As registered providers, our members will need to use this platform to stay informed about procurement opportunities, ensure compliance with new transparency rules and efficiently manage supplier engagements.
• CHIC’s Role CHIC is now a registered buyer on the Central Digital Platform, meaning our frameworks and opportunities will be listed and managed through this system. This ensures that our members benefit from a streamlined and compliant procurement process.
Stay Informed and PreparedThe Procurement Act 2023 presents both challenges and opportunities. As always, CHIC is committed to supporting our members through these changes. We encourage you to review our past articles for more detailed guidance and stay connected with us for ongoing updates.
For further information, visit our website or get in touch with Sam Domican at tenders@chicltd.co.uk. We are here to help you navigate the new procurement landscape with confidence.
