Managed print solutions framework
Framework Description
The Managed Print Solutions Framework is the Scottish Government's fourth-generation national framework for office print equipment and managed print services. Nine suppliers are appointed: Agilico, Canon, Epson, HP, Konica Minolta, Ricoh, Workflo Solutions, Xerox and XMA. It started on 22 August 2022 and runs to 31 March 2027, with separate frameworks covering client devices. This framework is used by the Scottish Government and APUC.
Context & Use Case
Public bodies across Scotland, including health boards, councils, universities and the third sector, use it to buy multi-functional devices, desktop printers and print room equipment, or to outsource fleet management through a managed print service. Standard purchases can be made from the catalogue, while more complex or higher-value solutions go to further competition between suppliers.
Scope of Services
Multi-functional devices and services (low, medium and high volume) Desktop printers 3D printing Print room equipment and services (very high volume) Managed print services Consumables and software
Lots
See framework link
Who Can Apply
It suits print manufacturers and dealers that can deliver and service equipment across Scotland and hold ISO 27001 and Cyber Essentials Plus. Applications are closed, with nine suppliers appointed, and it ends on 31 March 2027, so a re-tender for the next generation is likely to be close.
Buyer Benefits
The framework supports a Scottish public sector goal of 90 to 95% deployment of more energy-efficient multi-functional devices. Buyers get a quick catalogue route for standard kit and further competition for complex solutions, with suppliers committed to the real Living Wage, community benefits and accredited information security.
Next Steps
Appointed suppliers should push for further competitions before 31 March 2027 and gather performance data for the next round. Others should watch the Scottish Government's framework page and Find a Tender for the next-generation managed print notice, and prepare evidence on energy efficiency, security accreditation, Scottish service coverage, Fair Work and community benefits. Smaller dealers could partner with a manufacturer.
How Athena Can Help
The next managed print framework is likely to be tendered soon, and preparation starts with knowing what will be scored. Athena's bid preparation for frameworks assembles your accreditations, energy data and case studies and writes the application, with a compliance check before submission.
Existing suppliers can use our further competition support for win themes and pricing on large managed print deals, and our print sector bidding advice helps you choose which competitions to pursue.
