| Date |
|---|
| 2nd September 2025 |
We are pleased to announce the launch of the new High Performance Computing Framework to SUPC members. This new standalone framework replaces lot 4 of the SSSNA. The retendered agreement provides a compliant and responsible route for universities to purchase High Performance Computers.
This new framework offers a cost-effective procurement option, giving you access to 5 expert suppliers with extensive experience in servicing the HE sector. The agreement will run for a 2-year period from 1 September 2025 with a permissible extension through to 31 August 2029 if invoked.
The agreement is open to all SUPC members, as well as those from the following consortia:
- Higher Education Purchasing Consortium, Wales (HEPCW)
- London Universities Purchasing Consortium (LUPC)
- Northeast Universities Purchasing Consortium (NEUPC)
- Northwest Universities Purchasing Consortium (NWUPC)
- Advanced Procurement for Universities and Colleges (APUC)
What are the main changes from the previous agreement?
- New Standalone Framework – A new standalone framework for High Performance Computing, which was previously lot 4 of the SSSNA. A focused framework around HPC solutions with a high spend threshold to enable institutions to procure high-value solutions
- Greater Focus around SRM – A greater focus around SRM with an emphasis on Strategic partnerships more than transactional supplier relationships, enabling a better offering and cost savings to member institutions.
- New Suppliers – 2 new suppliers have been awarded to this framework (Hitachi and Lenovo).
What are the benefits of using the High Performance Computing Framework?
- Procurement efficiency – reduces time and administrative costs associated with repeatedly negotiating contracts. Once the framework is in place, individual orders (call-offs) can be made quickly under pre-agreed terms
- Improved SRM – encourages long-term collaboration, which can lead to better service, innovation, and problem-solving. Strategic partnerships are being emphasised more than transactional supplier relationships
- Agreed pricing – pre-negotiated pricing or discount structures can lead to cost savings and easier budgeting
- Better compliance – centralised agreements allow for better control over legal, ethical, and quality standards across multiple purchases
- Expert suppliers – all with vast experience of working with the HE sector
- Framework Levy of 0.5%
- All hardware pricing includes a standard 5-year next business day fix on-site warranty, together with an option to extend the warranty period up to 7 years
- New Call off Contract for Institutions to use as template for contracting with suppliers.
Meet the suppliers:
- Dell Corporation
- Hewlett-Packard
- XMA Limited
- Lenovo
- Eviden
(Please note we are awaiting signed contracts from Hitachi and Supermicro, who will be added to the framework once received.)
How do you call-off from the agreement?
Direct award (ranking) or further competition and desktop calculator.
How has sustainability, equality and diversity been considered as part of the tender?
Sustainability is of key concern to the HE sector and our suppliers are encouraged to operate and promote sustainable practices. Suppliers were evaluated in terms of their approach to:
- Carbon reduction achievement and reporting
- Commitments to delivering social value including community and voluntary schemes supported
- Ensuring their supply chains are in accordance with the Ethical Trading Initiative Base Code.
Want to find out more?
Full agreement details, including how to use the agreement are available through the Hunter Contracts Database.
Join the HPC launch webinar
Join us on Wednesday 1 October 2025 for the High Performance Computing framework launch webinar.
About SUPC
At Southern Universities Procurement Consortium (SUPC), we help universities and colleges buy smarter. Members use our frameworks and support services to make sure their procurement activities deliver value for money to students, staff and wider communities. Visit our member resources page to learn more about using frameworks with us.
We are part of the SUMS group, which also includes SUMS Consulting The SUMS group provides procurement and consultancy solutions to the higher education sector.
Explore more benefits of SUPC membership here.