Framework Contracts

Collaborating with other Authorities can help to achieve better value for money due to combining buying power and economies of scale. There are a number of 'buying organisations' which act as purchasing agents for member authorities and other customers, such as the Eastern Shires Purchasing Organisation (ESPO) and OGC Buying Solutions, which provide a cost effective and professional procurement and supply service.

These organisations combine the spending power of multiple Authorities to help reduce prices and achieve efficiencies, and as these Framework Contracts are fully compliant with European legislation, it removes the need for the Council to undertake its own tendering exercise, making further savings.