Public procurement UK: a supplier's guide to the Procurement Act 2023
By Matt Buckley
What changed under the Procurement Act 2023
- A single set of rules replacing several older regulations
- A central digital platform where suppliers register once
- A new flexible competitive procedure alongside open tenders
- A duty on buyers to consider barriers facing small and medium-sized businesses
- Greater transparency, including notices across the contract lifecycle
- A central debarment list for suppliers excluded for serious failings
How to find public sector opportunities
Opportunities are published on the Find a Tender service and, for lower values, Contracts Finder. Many buyers also use frameworks, so being on the right framework can matter as much as winning a single tender.
How to bid well
Public tenders are scored against published criteria. Write to the scoring guide, not to your brochure. Price is usually weighted, but quality, social value and delivery risk often carry more marks than suppliers expect. Evidence beats claims: named examples, measurable outcomes and a credible mobilisation plan.
Public procurement for buyers
Public bodies face the same cost pressures as private firms, with extra process. Good category planning, spend analysis and category management help buyers use the new flexible procedure well.
Where Caventis fits
Caventis works mainly with private businesses. We help suppliers that sell into the public sector understand their own cost base and pricing, so their bids are competitive and still profitable. See our procurement consultancy service.
Frequently asked questions
When did the Procurement Act 2023 start?
It came into force on 24 February 2025. Procurements started before that date continue under the old rules.
Does the Act apply in Scotland?
Scotland largely keeps its own procurement regulations, though some provisions apply to certain Scottish bodies.
References
Every figure cited above is drawn from the independent sources below. Numbers in square brackets in the text link to the matching source.
- Procurement Act 2023 — legislation.gov.uk
- Transforming public procurement — GOV.UK
- Find a Tender — GOV.UK
Related insights
More practical reading on procurement, cost and supply chain.
Strong sectors, the UK-Vietnam trade agreement and what to check when importing from Vietnam.
Strong sectors, trade rules and supplier checks for importing from India to the UK.
Sectors, trade rules and when nearshoring to Turkey beats sourcing from Asia.
Ready to find the savings hidden in your business?
Book an introductory call with Caventis to discuss your requirements.