The Procurement Act 2023: What You Need to Know Now

As we stand on the cusp of a major overhaul in UK public procurement, it’s crucial for suppliers to understand the changes coming with the Procurement Act 2023. Set to go live on February 24, 2025, this legislation will reshape how businesses engage with public sector opportunities. Here’s what you need to know:

1. The Central Digital Platform (CDP) is Coming

The CDP is perhaps the most significant practical change for suppliers. Here’s the latest:

• Launch Date: 00:01 on February 24, 2025
• Registration: Expected to open for suppliers in early February 2025
• Location: https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/ (replacing the current Find a Tender service)

Action Point: Prepare your company information now. You’ll need details like your Companies House number, financial information, and data on individuals with significant control. Read our guidance here.

2. New Procurement Procedures

The Act introduces streamlined procedures:

• Open Procedure
• Competitive Flexible Procedure
• Limited Tendering Procedure

The Competitive Flexible Procedure is particularly noteworthy, allowing contracting authorities to design bespoke processes for complex procurements.

3. Enhanced Transparency Measures

Transparency is a cornerstone of the new Act:

• Contracting authorities must publish procurement pipelines
• New notices are required throughout the procurement lifecycle
• A central debarment list will be publicly available

These measures aim to level the playing field and provide more opportunities for SMEs.

4. Revised Exclusion Grounds

The Act introduces new mandatory and discretionary exclusion grounds:

• Mandatory grounds include certain economic crimes and modern slavery offences
• Discretionary grounds cover professional misconduct and poor prior contract performance

Warning: Review the new exclusion grounds carefully. You’ll need to declare your status when registering on the CDP.

5. Social Value and Environmental Considerations

The Act places increased emphasis on:

• Social value in contract awards
• Environmental considerations in procurement decisions

Suppliers should be prepared to demonstrate their commitment to these areas in future bids.

Key Dates to Remember

• Late January 2025: Onboarding begins for contracting authorities
• Early February 2025: Expected opening of supplier registration on CDP
• February 24, 2025, 00:01: Go-live for the Procurement Act 2023 and CDP

What You Should Do Now

1. Start gathering all necessary information for CDP registration
2. Review your bidding strategies in light of the new procedures
3. Assess your company against the new exclusion grounds
4. Develop your approach to demonstrating social value and environmental considerations
5. Keep an eye out for the new National Procurement Policy Statement, expected in early February 2025

The Procurement Act 2023 represents both a challenge and an opportunity for suppliers. By preparing now, you can position your business to thrive in this new procurement landscape. Stay tuned for further updates as we approach the go-live date.