Open framework — Procurement Act 2023
An open framework under the UK Procurement Act 2023 is a scheme of successive frameworks on substantially the same terms, providing opportunities for new suppliers to join at reopening points.
What is being reopened
The scheme provides for successive framework awards. It is not a single framework that admits suppliers whenever they ask. The procurement documents set out the relevant structure and reopening arrangements.
What membership means
A framework establishes the terms for future contract awards. A supplier must still understand the call-off mechanism, eligible buyers and scope of the work. Admission should not be treated as a promise of orders or revenue.
Compared with a dynamic market
A dynamic market must remain open to new members. An open framework uses its specified reopening process. For a supplier that missed the initial competition, the practical question is therefore when the next framework competition occurs, rather than whether an application can be sent at any time.
Sources
Reviewed: October 27, 2026
Related terms
Dynamic market — Procurement Act 2023
A dynamic market is a list of qualified suppliers eligible for future procurements under the UK Procurement Act 2023. It remains open to new members.
Framework Agreement
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Mini-Competition
A mini-competition is a competitive call-off process used to award specific contracts under a multi-supplier framework agreement or a Dynamic Purchasing System.…