Tendering for Government Contracts

Approved supplier lists

Many public-sector organisations (in particular local authorities) hold lists of potential suppliers for certain types of work, usually for lower-value contracts below the EC threshold limits. If an organisation has such a list, it must still advertise any requirement above the relevant EC limit. The nature of these lists varies between organisations. However, the lists should be regularly reviewed to include new suppliers and to make sure that the existing suppliers continue to provide good value for money. If your firm is accepted onto a list, it does not necessarily mean that you will be invited to tender straight away. To find out about lists held by specific public-sector organisations, you might want to contact the organisations listed on the useful publications & addresses page or your local authority.