Publishing, print, design and associated services (PPDAS) (2025)
Framework Description
Publishing, Print, Design and Associated Services (PPDAS) is a Scottish Government single-supplier national framework with APS Group (Scotland) Ltd. It provides an account-managed service covering publishing, design, print management, accessible formats and distribution for public sector content. It runs from 1 October 2025 to 30 September 2029, and the supplier works to standard terms and agreed quality standards. This framework is used by the Scottish Government and APUC.
Context & Use Case
Communications and publishing teams in central government, health, councils, universities, colleges and the third sector use it to produce published content in print and online, from design and artwork to accessible formats such as Braille and easy-read, and web publishing that meets accessibility regulations. As a single-supplier framework, there is no mini-competition.
Scope of Services
Publishing for online and print content Design, artwork, photography, illustration and infographics Copywriting, editorial, proofing and pre-press Alternative formats, including Braille, easy-read and BSL Print management, secure print and web-to-print Fulfilment, distribution and digital asset management Accessible web conversion to WCAG 2.2 AA
Lots
See framework link
Who Can Apply
It suits large publishing and print management firms able to run a 24/7, account-managed service for the Scottish public sector, but applications are closed, with APS Group as sole supplier. Design studios, printers and accessibility specialists can look for subcontract work, and others should aim at the re-tender around 30 September 2029.
Buyer Benefits
Buyers avoid running their own procurement and get standard terms, a 24/7 service to agreed quality standards and one partner for content from design to distribution. Accessibility is built in, helping public bodies meet web accessibility regulations and publish in formats everyone can use.
Next Steps
With the framework running to September 2029, design, print and accessibility firms should approach APS Group about supply chain roles and build references through standalone contracts. Large print management firms should plan for the re-tender, gathering evidence on accessibility compliance, secure print, digital asset management and account management across many public bodies.
How Athena Can Help
For specialist design, print and accessibility firms, the near-term route into PPDAS-type work is through the supply chain and standalone tenders. Athena's tender support for creative firms helps you win design and publishing contracts from councils and universities.
Larger firms targeting the 2029 re-tender can use our bid planning and writing to build a credible single-supplier offer, while related framework openings are mapped so you can win public sector print and design work sooner.
