How to buy through framework agreements

What is a framework agreement?

A framework is a type of commercial agreement. They are a compliant way for the public sector to buy products or services from pre-approved suppliers. Each framework has its own set of terms and conditions, schedules and order forms.

There are 3 framework types you can buy from. The type you use will depend on your organisation’s needs and the regulations you are procuring under:

1. Framework (under Public Contract Regulations 2015)
2. Closed framework (under Procurement Act 2023)
3. Open framework (under Procurement Act 2023)

All public sector and non-profit organisations can buy through a framework agreement.

Buy through a framework under Public Contract Regulations 2015

What is a framework under Public Contract Regulations 2015?

A framework under procurement contract regulations 2015 (PCR2015) is a way for public sector buyers to buy goods and services.

They include a list of suppliers who have already demonstrated that they are capable of providing the products and services within that agreement. Once a framework has started and awarded suppliers are chosen, no new suppliers are able to join this type of framework. 

This means, you can only award contracts to the pre-approved suppliers already listed under the framework agreement. 

They typically last for a maximum of 4 years. Some frameworks may last for up to 8 years if there is a justifiable need for the extra length of time (such as providing defence or utility services).

What can you buy from a framework?

You can use a framework to buy just about anything. Take a look at our current list of live frameworks.

How to buy from a framework under Public Contract Regulations 2015?

To buy from a framework under PCR 2015 you can:

1. Direct award

This is where you place an order directly with a supplier who can best meet your needs. 

Learn how to buy through direct award.

2. Further competition

This is where you invite suppliers listed on an agreement to bid for your business.

Learn how to buy through further competition.

Buy through a closed framework

What is a closed framework?

A closed framework is a new type of commercial agreement introduced under the Procurement Act 2023.

They are very similar to frameworks under PCR2015. At the start of a closed framework, suppliers are able to apply for a place. Once the initial selection process is complete and successful suppliers have been awarded, no new suppliers are able to join.

This means you can only award contracts to the pre-approved suppliers who are already listed under the closed framework.

They typically have a maximum duration and last for usually 4 years. Some frameworks providing defence or utility services can last up to 8 years.

What can you buy from a framework?

You can use a closed framework to buy just about anything. Take a look at our current list of closed frameworks.

Alternatively, if there are currently no live closed frameworks that can meet your needs, take a look at our upcoming agreements page.

How to buy from a closed framework?

To buy from a closed framework you can:

1. Award with competition

This is where you ask suppliers listed under the framework agreement to bid for your business. 

Learn how to buy through award with competition.

2. Award without competition

When you place an order directly with a supplier without entering into a competition. 

Learn how to buy through award without competition.

Buy through an open framework

What is an open framework?

An open framework is a new type of commercial agreement introduced under the Procurement Act 2023. They include a list of suppliers who have already demonstrated that they are capable of providing the products and services within that agreement. 

Open frameworks are not just one framework. They are a series of frameworks running one after another under the same overall banner and providing the same goods, services or works on substantially the same terms. They can last up to 8 years.

They are designed to give buyers and suppliers greater flexibility and opportunity for innovation.

Unlike closed or PCR2015 frameworks, open frameworks allow new suppliers to join or rejoin at different times throughout the agreement’s life.

There is no limit on the number of times the framework can be reopened or the number of frameworks within the scheme. 

What can you buy from an open framework?

You can use an open framework to buy just about anything. Take a look at our current list of open frameworks.

Alternatively, if there are currently no live open frameworks that can meet your needs, take a look at our upcoming agreements page.

How to buy from an open framework?

To buy from an open framework you can:

1. Award with competition

This is where you ask suppliers listed under the framework agreement to bid for your business. 

Learn how to buy through award with competition.

2. Award without competition

When you place an order directly with a supplier without entering into a competition. 

Learn how to buy through award without competition.

What happens when an open framework reopens?

When an open framework reopens it allows: 

• new suppliers to bid for inclusion on the agreement
• existing suppliers to be readmitted based on their initial bid 
• awarded suppliers to expand or change their service offering or pricing
• suppliers to leave a framework and rejoin at the next opening point

The open framework must reopen at least once during the first 3 years and at least once during the following 5 years before the agreement ends. This keeps the agreements competitive and up-to-date while providing long-term stability.

Procurement Essentials

1. 
   News and blogs, Procurement Essentials | 3rd June 2025

   How open frameworks benefit public sector buyers – Procurement Essentials

   Under the Procurement Act 2023, a new type of commercial agreement called open frameworks has been introduced that will help public sector buyers achieve even greater value for money.

   Read more about How open frameworks benefit public sector buyers – Procurement Essentials
2. 
   Procurement Essentials | 22nd May 2024

   What is a framework – Procurement Essentials

   Procurement Essentials is a new series of articles to help you overcome common hurdles, understand key concepts, and make your life as a buyer of everyday goods and services easier.

   Read more about What is a framework – Procurement Essentials
3. 
   Procurement Essentials | 16th November 2021

   How to write a specification – Procurement Essentials

   Procurement Essentials is a new series of articles to help you overcome common hurdles, understand key concepts, and make your life as a buyer of everyday goods and services easier.

   Read more about How to write a specification – Procurement Essentials

Browse all Procurement Essentials articles.

You might also be interested in:

Information for buyers and suppliers

Find helpful information to help you start buying or supplying.

Find information for buying and supplying.

You might also be interested in:

Glossary

Find explanations for common terms and abbreviations used in public procurement.

Explore our glossary.