External Print Providers - Prior Information Notice

Tender description

The University plans to undertake a procurement exercise in early 2018 for the renewal of the framework agreement for external print providers. Traditionally the University has divided the contract into categories which are; • Category 1 - Small requirements, eg single or two-colour leaflets, four-colour short runs etc; • Category 2 - Medium requirements, eg full-colour medium run booklets/brochures etc; • Category 3 - High-volume work, eg four-colour long runs, four-colour magazine (ie Alumni Magazine) and four-colour prospectus. There are currently 18 suppliers with some being awarded against all categories and other specialising in single categories. We currently don't cover print/fulfilment, direct mail or books under contract but would be looking to incorporate these into the new contract for a 'one stop shop' provision. We are excluding design/creative services merchandising/promotional goods within this RFI. We are currently exploring other potential routes to market and in particular a managed service. The aim of this questionnaire is to better understand the benefits and risks associated with such a provision.