‘Bid better’ boost for business

BUSINESSES in the north-east that want to improve their chances of winning contracts are being urged to sign up for bidding workshops.

The Positive Procurement Programme’s training workshops programme is pitched at businesses which are new to tendering or want to improve their tendering skills.
Workshops will be led by members of Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire councils’ shared service, the Central Procurement Unit.
The workshops will cover two key stages in procurement – pre-qualification questionnaires (PQQ) and invitation to tender (ITT).
First workshops are being held this month and Level 2 workshops, starting in November, will explore higher value contracts and more complex requirements where the councils are looking for innovative solutions. It provides bidders with a full understanding of terminology, procedure and expectations.
Aberdeen’s head of procurement, Craig Innes, said: “These workshops are an opportunity to learn about how to tender for contracts with Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire Councils.
“The CPU will lead the training, so businesses can be assured they are getting the most up-to-date information and specialist support. One of our key aims is to work more closely with local suppliers and assist them to develop their tendering practices.”