UK SBS has been made responsible for managing research and putting in place the framework for market research for use by, or on behalf of UK bodies, and the tender will see eight lots up for bids [see below].

The contract will be for two years with an option for a further two and tenders may be submitted for one or more lots.

UK SBS estimates that the total value of purchases for the duration of the framework agreement will be between £5m and £80m and, according to the contract notice, the lots will be awarded to the “most economically advantageous tender in terms of the criteria stated in the specifications, in the invitation to tender or to negotiate or in the descriptive document”.

Last October, the Market Research Society (MRS) outlined its preference for a framework agreement that focused on “procuring research services to address specific business problems within government as opposed to procuring research solely by research methodology”.

Chief executive, MRS, Jane Frost said the UK SBS had listened to and taken on board many of the society’s recommendations in developing the process.

She added: “MRS’ recommendations were based on extensive consultation with our members and special interest groups and we would urge all our members to consider participating in this tender.”

Tenders or requests to participate must be received by 27 August 2013 and dispatch of invitations to tender or to participate will be sent to selected candidates on 25 September with the opening of tenders on 4 November.

• The lots are:

1. Secondary research
2. Strategic planning and development
3. Communications, products and services development and training
4. Performance/reputation audit and customer/stakeholder satisfaction
5. Communications evaluation research
6. Research support services
7. Panels
8. Specialist Audiences

The tender notice can be found here.