The Supply of Lasers and Associated Equipment Framework Launched

NWUPC are pleased to announce that members of NWUPC can now access The Supply of Lasers and Associated Equipment Framework (LAB1032 AP).

The framework will run for an initial 3 years from 31st July 2023 to the 30th July 2026, with one optional 12 month extension to 30th July 2027.

This framework is open to all members of NWUPC, APUC, HEPCW, LUPC, NEUPC, SUPC.

APUC will be hosting a webinar for the launch of the framework on Wednesday 23rd August at 14.00. This is open to all members and feel free to share with colleagues who you think may be interested. 

The purpose of this Framework Agreement is to deliver a more efficient route to market for institutions and contractors through the supply and commissioning of a variety of lasers and other associated equipment. These include optical spectrometers, PIV lasers, laser micromachining, laser safety products, optomechanical equipment, flow cytometry lasers, laser spare parts and maintenance services.

By minimising the resource required to complete purchases for lasers and allowing the focus of laboratory staff to be on core work in support of departmental objectives.

Scope of the framework

• Lot 1 - Lasers and Coherent Sources
• Lot 2 - Optical Spectrometers and Cameras
• Lot 3 - Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) Lasers and LED Systems    
• Lot 4 - Laser Micromachining
• Lot 5 - Laser Safety Products and Protective Equipment
• Lot 6 - Optomechanical Equipment and Accessories
• Lot 7 - Flow Cytometry
• Lot 8 - Laser Spare Parts and Associated Equipment
• Lot 9 - Maintenance, Service and Upgrade of Lasers and Associated Systems

What are the key aspects of the framework?

• Contractors on this Framework Agreement can provide, as a minimum:
• Contractual coverage for the national supply of quality products
• Simple call off procedures through either ranked Contractors, Desktop Evaluation or mini competition
• Dedicated lot for maintenance and repair of equipment
• Lotting structure developed to suit institutional requirements
• Discounted Rates for the life of the Framework Agreement on equipment and servicing
• GDPR is not applicable to this Framework Agreement.

The benefits of using this framework agreement are:

• A pre-competed and compliant route to market providing a vehicle to centralise procurement spend
• Mitigation of Procurement risk surrounding EU Procurement
• Reduction in administrative costs and efforts
• Provides flexibility to Institutions to determine specific requirements at Call-off Contract in line with the Framework Agreement specification
• Maximum discounts and pricing defined and agreed for the duration of the Framework Agreement. These discounts and pricing can be reduced further at time of mini competition
• Effective reporting mechanism to obtain accurate, timely and relevant management information
• A range of Added Value and Community Benefits
• Pre-defined and agreed Terms and Conditions
• Shared risk and management of Contractors

Further information on this agreement including a full list of suppliers and their contact details can be found in a detailed User Guide which is available on HE Contracts.

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