Frameworks are one of the most common ways the public sector buys — and one of the most misunderstood. If you have seen a contract advertised as a "framework" and weren't sure whether or how to bid, this guide is for you.
At a glance
- A framework agreement is a deal between a buyer (or buyers) and one or more suppliers that sets the terms for future contracts.
- Buyers then place orders — called call-offs — under those agreed terms.
- Getting onto a framework usually means winning a place through a competitive tender.
- Once on, you can win work via direct award or further competition (a mini-competition).
- The Procurement Act 2023 introduced open frameworks that reopen periodically to let new suppliers join.
What is a framework agreement?
A framework is a contract between a contracting authority and one or more suppliers that provides for the future award of contracts. It sets out the terms — the provisions under which future orders for goods, services or works will be made — without committing the buyer to buy anything up front.
Think of it as a pre-approved supplier list with the legal terms already agreed. When a buyer needs something covered by the framework, they don't have to run a full procurement from scratch — they can buy from the suppliers already on it.
What is a call-off?
A call-off is the actual order placed under a framework. A call-off contract is essentially a template contract, with standard terms that all suppliers sign up to when they join the framework. The "call-off process" is the set of steps a buyer follows when buying through the framework.
So there are two stages:
- Getting onto the framework (the procurement to appoint suppliers).
- Winning call-offs (the individual orders placed afterwards).
How suppliers win work from a framework
Under the Procurement Act 2023, there are two common ways buyers award call-offs:
- Direct award — the buyer places an order directly with the supplier that best meets their needs, based on the framework's terms.
- Further competition — the buyer invites the framework's suppliers to bid, then picks a winner. This is often called a mini-competition.
This is why a place on a framework is valuable but not a guarantee of work — you often still have to compete for the call-offs.
Open frameworks: a new route in
A frustration with traditional frameworks was that once they closed, new suppliers were shut out for years. The Procurement Act 2023 introduced the concept of an open framework — a scheme of frameworks that is periodically reopened, so new suppliers get fresh chances to tender for a place. (See the Procurement Act 2023 explained.)
How to get onto a framework
- Find frameworks being established in your sector — they are advertised like other opportunities on the official portals.
- Pass the selection stage — demonstrating your business is suitable. (See PQQ and the Standard Selection Questionnaire.)
- Submit your tender for a place on the framework.
- Once appointed, watch for call-offs — and be ready to win mini-competitions.
The timing trap is worth naming. Frameworks are typically let for four years, and if you miss the establishment window you wait years for the next one — while your competitors call off work in the meantime. Watch for framework establishment notices in your category specifically, not just for ordinary contracts.
Framework vs dynamic purchasing system
Frameworks are sometimes confused with a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS). The key difference: a framework is usually closed to new suppliers for its lifetime, while a DPS stays open for suppliers to join throughout. (See Dynamic Purchasing Systems explained.)
Frequently asked questions
What is a framework agreement in simple terms?
It is a pre-agreed arrangement between buyers and suppliers that sets the terms for future contracts, so buyers can order ("call off") without running a full procurement each time.
Does being on a framework guarantee work?
No. A place on a framework makes you eligible for orders, but you often still compete for individual call-offs through further competition (mini-competitions).
How do I get on a public sector framework?
Find frameworks being established in your sector on the official portals, pass the selection stage, and submit a competitive tender for a place.
What is the difference between a framework and a DPS?
A framework is generally closed once set up; a Dynamic Purchasing System stays open for new suppliers to join at any time.