Signs and Wayfinding Solutions
Framework Description
Signs and Wayfinding Solutions was let by NEUPC (North Eastern Universities Purchasing Consortium). It covers signage and wayfinding for university and college estates. Applications for this framework are closed (it is not a DPS), with the current term ending on 22 February 2027 and an option to extend by 12 months to 22 February 2028. This framework is used by NEUPC, APUC, SUPC and NWUPC.
Context & Use Case
Estates and facilities teams use it when refurbishing buildings, opening new facilities or updating campus branding, and need internal and external signs that are consistent and accessible. NEUPC members in England and APUC members in Scotland can both buy from it, so one appointment reaches estates teams on both sides of the border.
Scope of Services
Internal and external signage Wayfinding systems, digital and static Bespoke signage design Installation and maintenance Signage strategy and planning advice
Lots
See framework link
Who Can Apply
Sign makers and wayfinding designers not already appointed cannot join until NEUPC re-tenders. That will be around 22 February 2027 unless the 12-month extension is used, which would push it to 22 February 2028. Firms with higher education references and in-house design and installation are best placed.
Buyer Benefits
Campus wayfinding has to work for new students, visitors and disabled users across large sites, so buyers value suppliers who can survey, design and install as one package. A sector framework also gives estates teams fixed rates for repeat sign work over several years, rather than quoting each job.
Next Steps
Check APUC's catalogue entry (EFM2045 NE) and NEUPC's own framework page to confirm whether the extension has been triggered. If not, a replacement tender could appear within months. Prepare portfolios of campus wayfinding schemes, evidence against accessibility standards and installation method statements, so you can respond inside the tender window.
How Athena Can Help
The decision on extending this NEUPC framework sets the timing for the next tender, so it pays to plan now rather than wait for the notice. Athena offers public sector bid planning to decide whether to target it, and our support for framework tenders gets case studies, accessibility policies and certificates ready in advance.
When the tender opens, Athena's bid management covers the written responses, pricing schedules and a Bid Health Check before you submit.
