Print and associated services framework 2023 (SP-22-006)
Framework Description
The Print and Associated Services Framework 2023 (SP-22-006) is a Scottish Government multi-supplier framework for commercial print. It has two lots: Lot 1 for litho, digital and web print, and Lot 3 for special print, specifically special labels. It runs from 1 May 2023 to 30 April 2027. Design, publishing and core Scottish Government publications are outside its scope. This framework is used by Scottish Government and APUC.
Context & Use Case
Scottish public bodies, from police and fire services to universities and charities, use it for printed materials from short-run leaflets to flagship publications, books, directories and special labels. Rates on the framework are maximums, and buyers use mini-competitions between suppliers to get better value on larger or repeat print jobs.
Scope of Services
Lot 1: Litho, digital and web print services Lot 3: Special print services (special labels) Leaflets, brochures, booklets, posters and magazines Books, directories and reports Printed stationery, certificates and pads Finishing, stockholding, distribution and web-to-print
Lots
Lot 1 - Litho/digital/web print services; Lot 3 - Special print services - special labels
Who Can Apply
It suits litho and digital printers and label specialists with capacity to serve Scottish public bodies. It is closed to new applications until it is re-tendered, likely to be around 30 April 2027, so firms not appointed should prepare now.
Buyer Benefits
Buyers get capped rates with room to push prices down at mini-competition, plus a coordinated approach that lets public bodies share best practice. Several suppliers per lot give buyers a choice of capacity and turnaround, and stockholding and distribution services mean print can be stored and sent out as needed.
Next Steps
Printers should prepare for the re-tender ahead of 30 April 2027: gather public sector print examples, turnaround and quality data, environmental accreditations and distribution capability, and watch the Scottish Government's framework page and Find a Tender for the notice. Design and publishing sit in the separate PPDAS framework, held by APS Group until 2029, so print-only firms should focus on this one.
How Athena Can Help
Print frameworks are often decided on price, but quality answers separate close bids. Athena's bid responses and pricing help printers present turnaround, quality control and sustainability clearly, with rates set to win mini-competitions profitably.
Ahead of the 2027 re-tender, our application planning for printers sets out the evidence to gather and when, and print tender guidance covers standalone print contracts from councils and universities while you wait, including a quick bid/no-bid check on each.
