3D Printers, 3D Scanners and Associated Equipment
Framework Description
APUC's 3D Printers, 3D Scanners and Associated Equipment framework lets universities and colleges buy additive manufacturing and scanning equipment from pre-appointed suppliers. It has five lots: four split by printing technology and one for scanners. The current term runs from 10 January 2026 to 9 January 2029, with an option to extend by 12 months to 9 January 2030. Applications for this framework are closed (it is not a DPS). This framework is used by APUC, SUPC and NWUPC.
Context & Use Case
Engineering, product design and research departments, teaching labs and makerspaces in APUC member institutions use it when buying printers and scanners, from desktop fused deposition machines to electron beam melting systems that print in metal. Purchases range from a single machine for a teaching lab to high-value specialist systems for research groups, with associated equipment bought alongside.
Scope of Services
Stereolithography (SLA) printers Fused deposition modelling (FDM) printers High value specialist 3D printers Electron beam melting printers 3D scanners
Lots
Stereolithography Printers; Fused Deposition Modelling Printers; High Value Specialist 3D Printers; Electron Beam Melting Printers; 3D Scanners
Who Can Apply
Suits manufacturers, authorised resellers and specialist distributors of SLA, FDM, electron beam melting and high-value printers, and suppliers of 3D scanners. Appointed suppliers compete for orders through the framework. Others cannot join now; the next chance is the re-tender, likely around 9 January 2029, or 2030 if the extension is taken.
Buyer Benefits
Researchers often need one specific printing process, and lots split by technology let buyers go straight to suppliers qualified for SLA, FDM, electron beam melting or high-value specialist printers, or for scanners. Institutions avoid running a full tender for each expensive machine, and suppliers on each lot have already been evaluated by APUC.
Next Steps
Appointed suppliers should make sure member institutions know which lot they hold and respond quickly when asked to quote. Suppliers not on the framework should read the Public Contracts Scotland notice (MAR551420), then build technical, service and case study evidence for the re-tender, expected ahead of January 2029 or January 2030 if the extension is used.
How Athena Can Help
If you hold a place on one of the five lots, Athena can help you win more of the call-offs. Our bid management service builds win themes around specification, training and aftercare, and models your likely score against rival suppliers.
Suppliers aiming for the re-tender can use our help getting onto frameworks to plan evidence and case studies well ahead of it, while public sector pricing advice keeps high-value equipment bids competitive and profitable.
