What is a framework agreement?
By using the right framework agreement, you can ensure you find the perfect office products and services for your business, from pre-approved suppliers to improved purchasing.
Going out to tender is a time-consuming and complex process. But there is a way to make it much simpler. By researching existing framework agreements and identifying one that is right for your business, you can save time and money. Especially when it comes to managing your office supplies and services such as printing, document disposal and distribution.
In this article, we’ll recap what a framework agreement is, how to know which one is best for your business to improve purchasing, and why you should consider registering for a managed service.
What is a framework agreement?
Framework agreements set out the terms – including price, quality and quantity – under which individual contracts can be awarded from pre-approved suppliers.
These contracts give you the flexibility to gain what you need under pre-negotiated conditions, which are then tailored to your organisation.
This, in turn, leads to greater efficiency in identifying what you need and then fulfilling it, greater savings when suppliers offer more competitive prices, and greater stability throughout the procurement process.
Which framework is right for my industry?
It’s a great question, and possibly the most important one of the entire process. There are a lot of choices out there and you need to find one that is right for your business – and one that is also secure and reliable.
Once your framework is tendered and awarded, little can be done to change the agreed-upon terms. So, make sure you involve your procurement department throughout and choose a credible framework agreement.
Why should I register for a managed service?
A managed service framework agreement procures everything your organisation needs for managing office supplies, printing, document disposal, and mailroom services.
These services are integral to multiple business-critical processes. Working with a partner to source them efficiently and effectively can have far-reaching benefits for you and your people.
What framework agreements are Ricoh members of?
Ricoh is currently a member of several framework agreements, and a lot of work goes into ensuring it is only partnered with the right kind. It focuses on developing strong relationships with Framework Managers to build loyalty and trust and improve purchasing.
Here is a list of current members, and you can find more details here:
● Birmingham City Council
● Buy for Good
● Central Buying Consortium (CBC)
● Crown Commercial Service (CCS)
● Crescent Purchasing Consortium (CPC)
● London Procurement Partnership (LPP)
● Northern Ireland Education Authority
● National Procurement Service – Welsh Government
● Procurement for Housing (PfH)
● Procurement Scotland
● 2Buy2.com
● YPO
Countess of Chester framework agreement
Ricoh is proud to be recognised as an approved supplier of the Countess of Chester framework.
This enables Ricoh to offer public sector authorities access to products and services that offer the best value while remaining compliant with procurement regulations.
Let us manage and deliver your office supplies, printing, document disposal, and mailroom services.
Need more guidance? Bring in the experts.
Ricoh’s Consultancy Services team are focused on working alongside organisations to unlock the potential of their teams and workplaces.
Our experts are truly passionate about what they do. We offer bespoke services to create processes that inspire your people and improve your business. That includes helping you find the right solution specification for your individual business needs. So you can then use this as a baseline design to call for competitive offerings under a framework.
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