Print Solutions
Framework Description
SUPC's Print Solutions framework covers printed products and print services for universities across six lots: Printed Stationery, Security Printing, Printed Prospectuses, Printed Marketing Materials, Digital Print Services and Print Managed Services. Applications for this framework are closed (it is not a DPS); it has 26 appointed suppliers and runs from 1 October 2023 to 30 September 2027 with no extension option.
Context & Use Case
Marketing, admissions and student services teams use it for prospectuses and recruitment literature, campaign materials and stationery. Registry and exams teams use the security print lot for items such as exam booklets and badges that need controlled production. Institutions with large print spend can outsource the whole function under the managed services lot.
Scope of Services
Lot 1: Printed Stationery Lot 2: Security Printing Lot 3: Printed Prospectuses Lot 4: Printed Marketing Materials Lot 5: Digital Print Services Lot 6: Print Managed Services
Lots
Lot 1 Printed Stationery; Lot 2 Security Printing; Lot 3 Printed Prospectuses; Lot 4 Printed Marketing Materials; Lot 5 Digital Print Services; Lot 6 Print Managed Services
Who Can Apply
Suits commercial and digital printers, security printers and print management companies, according to lot. Applications for this framework are closed, so firms not appointed will need to bid when SUPC re-tenders, likely around September 2027.
Buyer Benefits
Universities need prospectuses delivered to tight recruitment-cycle deadlines, consistent brand quality, secure handling of exam materials and print that meets sustainability commitments. The lot structure lets them use specialists for each need or hand print over to a managed service provider.
Next Steps
Choose the lot or lots that match your presses and services, then prepare for the re-tender ahead of 30 September 2027. Follow SUPC's framework page for the notice, and gather FSC or environmental accreditations, security print credentials and examples of university work.
How Athena Can Help
Print tenders can be lost on lot choice alone. Athena's framework registration consultants help you pick between the six lots and prepare the selection evidence, from environmental accreditations to security credentials.
Our bid management team builds win themes on deadlines, quality and sustainability, and prices schedules against likely rivals. If you are already appointed, our public sector bidding consultancy can help you win more call-off work before the agreement ends.
