| Date |
|---|
| 5th August 2024 |
(4-minute read)
We’re pleased to announce the launch of our re-tendered IRLA Laboratory Consumables and Chemicals Framework to all SUPC members, as well as members of the following partner consortia:
- Higher Education Purchasing Consortium Wales (HEPCW)
- London Universities Purchasing Consortium (LUPC)
- North Eastern Universities Purchasing Consortium (NEUPC)
- North Western Universities Purchasing Consortium (NWUPC)
Led by Southern Universities Purchasing Consortium (SUPC), this framework offers a cost-effective procurement option across a broad range of Lots covering Laboratory Consumables and Chemicals, bringing together a number of market operators from SMEs through to larger manufacturers and distributors. The agreement will run from 2 August 2024 to 1 August 2027 with a permissible extension through to August 2028 if invoked.
The main changes from the previous agreement include:
- a new group of SMEs operating on the Framework for the first time
- new structure which allows competition across all suppliers regardless of whether they’re SMEs or major industry players aiding member sustainability policies
- greater focus on sustainability and the ability of suppliers to offer alternative and sustainable products as part of their product catalogues
- a new Organic Chemicals Lot
- the addition of Pipette Servicing now available within the scope of the Framework offering.
Key benefits of using the IRLA Consumables and Chemicals Framework Agreement:
- fast and compliant route to market
- competitive prices
- a wide choice of suppliers to match your organisational requirements and culture
- a set of standard added-value services across all suppliers, complemented by supplier specific added-value services detailed further in the tender response.
The following suppliers have been awarded to the agreement under 12 lots:
How do I call-off from the framework agreement?
Call-off from this framework agreement is by means of direct award (ranking) or further competition only.
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.
Further information:
Full agreement details, including how to use the agreement, are available through the HE Contracts Database.
About SUPC
At Southern Universities Purchasing 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, including our Pocket Procurement videos series.
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.