Domestic Furniture and Furnishings
Introduction
The Domestic Furniture and Furnishings Framework, managed by Advanced Procurement for Universities and Colleges (APUC), is a structured procurement route specifically designed for the acquisition of furniture and furnishings within the university sector. This framework is not a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS); rather, it is a traditional framework agreement, meaning that suppliers are pre-approved and cannot join the framework after its initial setup. The framework is set to run until 28 February 2025, providing a reliable and compliant route for universities to procure necessary furniture and furnishings.
Context & Use Case
The framework specifically caters to the needs of universities, addressing the demand for high-quality, durable, and functional furniture and furnishings that are essential for educational environments. Universities often require a wide range of furniture solutions that cater to diverse needs, from classroom furniture to office furnishings and student accommodation fittings. This framework enables them to meet these requirements efficiently and cost-effectively. By consolidating procurement under a single framework, universities can achieve economies of scale, ensuring consistent quality and compliance with procurement regulations.
Scope of Services
The Domestic Furniture and Furnishings Framework covers a comprehensive range of products necessary for the furnishing of university spaces. Typical products included are: 1. Classroom furniture such as desks, chairs, and storage units designed for educational use. 2. Office furniture including desks, chairs, filing cabinets, and meeting room tables tailored for administrative and academic staff. 3. Student accommodation furniture which may include beds, wardrobes, desks, and seating. 4. Common area furnishings such as sofas, tables, and chairs suitable for lounges and social spaces. 5. Specialist furniture designed for libraries, laboratories, and other unique university environments.
Who Can Apply
This framework is suitable for suppliers who provide a wide array of furniture and furnishings tailored to the educational sector. Given that this is not a DPS, only those suppliers who were pre-approved during the framework's establishment can participate. Suppliers should have a proven track record of delivering quality furniture solutions that meet the specific needs of universities, including durability, functionality, and compliance with relevant standards.
Buyer Benefits
For public sector buyers, particularly universities, the Domestic Furniture and Furnishings Framework offers several advantages. It ensures that procurement is compliant with public sector regulations, reducing the administrative burden associated with procurement processes. The framework facilitates quicker access to pre-vetted suppliers, enabling faster procurement cycles and reducing lead times. Additionally, it fosters competitive pricing and standardisation across purchases, ensuring value for money and consistent quality across university environments.
Lots
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Next Steps
Suppliers interested in participating in this framework should ensure they meet the necessary requirements and maintain compliance with the terms established at the outset. While new suppliers cannot join this framework, existing framework members should review their offerings regularly to ensure alignment with university needs and compliance with framework provisions. For further information and details on specific lots or to engage with the procurement process, suppliers should contact APUC directly.
How Biddable Can Help
Biddable assists suppliers in navigating the complex landscape of public sector procurement by offering support in discovering relevant frameworks and understanding participation requirements. Our expertise helps suppliers prepare effectively for framework opportunities and maintain visibility over their procurement pipeline, ensuring they remain competitive and compliant throughout the framework lifecycle.