NWUPC Print Solutions Framework Launched

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We are delighted to announce that Members now have access to the latest iteration of the Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) for Print Solutions Framework (PRI3173 NW), which is now available to Members. This framework is the successor to the previous Print Solutions Framework (PRI 3070 NW) and is split into 6 categories.

The agreement runs from the 1st October 2023 until the 30th September 2025 with the option to extend for two further one year periods until 30th September 2027. A full user guide is available at HEContracts.

The framework is open to all Members of NWUPC, HEPCW, LUPC, NEUPC and SUPC.

Introductory Guide

A 2 page brief introductory guide is available for the framework and can be found here or by selecting the image to the right.  

What is a DPS?

  • As per regulation 34 of PCR 2015, a DPS is an electronic system for procuring commonly used goods and services
  • Like a Framework Agreement, a DPS gives you access to a list of pre-qualified suppliers who have met the mandatory requirements of the DPS
  • Unlike a Framework Agreement, all suppliers who meet the mandatory requirements of the DPS must be appointed to the DPS, and suppliers can join the DPS at any point throughout its duration
  • A DPS can be split into categories (like lots on a Framework Agreement), and suppliers can be appointed to a single category or multiple categories
  • Call-off under a DPS must be via mini-competition/further competition

Scope of the DPS

The Print Solution Framework DPS has been divided into the following Categories. 

  • Category 1- Printed Stationery (e.g. envelopes, letterhead, labels)
  • Category 2- Security Printing (e.g. exam booklets, badges)
  • Category 3- Printed Prospectuses
  • Category 4- Printed Marketing Materials (e.g. leaflets, banners, posters)
  • Category 5- Digital Print Services
  • Category 6- Print Managed Service

The Print Solutions DPS has been established for the provision of the following goods and services:

The Scope of the DPS includes but is not limited to services that aid with the management of fully comprehensive end to end printing services from initial design to delivery, covering both services and finished physical or digital goods.

The scope will include both small volume and bulk printing- including lithographic, digital, large format, wide format and accessible printing; binding, copying, laminating, embossing and finishing. Products will include but not be limited to pre-printed stationery incl. envelopes, labels, postcards, booklets, calendars etc.; printing related to ‘security’ such as exam documents, name badges, plastic ID cards etc; printed and digital materials such as prospectuses, marketing fliers/leaflets, banners, signage, posters, brochures wallets and folders.  The scope covers the provision of all elements of design work, web2print functionality and the fulfilment, packaging, storage and distribution of the in scope goods. 

The scope also includes direct mail including database management, design and personalisation, printing, finishing, collation, and mailing of items to end users, on a non-mandatory basis.

Suppliers to the DPS

The Print Solutions DPS was split into categories to allow specialists in key areas to access the agreement as well as those that can provide the goods and services from “cradle to grave”.  There are different suppliers available depending on the category therefore, please check the category appropriate to your requirements. Suppliers can join the DPS at any point throughout its duration.  You can access the current list of Suppliers on HEContracts.

About Dynamic Purchasing Systems and their Benefits

The benefits of using this DPS are:

  • Access to commonly used suppliers, and the ability to direct preferred suppliers to the DPS for appointment
  • Mitigation of Procurement risk surrounding PCR compliant procurement
  • Reduced administrative effort and associated process savings at call-off
  • Pre-established Terms and Conditions
  • Flexibility to determine specific requirements at the call off stage
  • Consortium contract management support should you experience any issues with suppliers

Responsible procurement coverage including:

  • UKUPC Sustain Code of Conduct
  • NETpositive Futures Supplier Engagement Tool Action Plan
  • Mandatory application of Government Buying Standards
  • Real Living Wage consideration
  • Carbon Reduction consideration
  • EDI consideration 

Further information on this agreement including supplier contact details can be found in the detailed User Guide which is available on HEContracts.

For further questions or enquiries contact procurement@nwupc.ac.uk or call on 0161 234 8000.

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