The Procurement Act 2023, which came into force on 24 February 2025, represents the most significant overhaul of UK public sector procurement in decades.
With its focus on flexibility, transparency, and social value, the Act creates exciting opportunities for businesses ready to adapt – particularly SMEs, start-ups, and social enterprises.
The BIG change: from MEAT to MAT…
One of the most impactful shifts in the Act is the move from Most Economically Advantageous Tender (MEAT) to Most Advantageous Tender (MAT).
While the change in terminology may seem minor, the implications are major. Under MAT, public sector buyers evaluate tenders on a broader view of value, not just cost and quality.
Now, your bid can stand out by demonstrating wider benefits, such as:
- Local job creation and apprenticeships
- Supplier diversity and SME/VCSE participation
- Environmental sustainability and carbon reduction
- Ethical business practices and community engagement
What this means for your business
The Procurement Act levels the playing field – price alone no longer wins contracts.
Instead, buyers are encouraged to award contracts to businesses that deliver measurable social, economic, and environmental value alongside high-quality, competitively priced goods or services.
If your business already has strong community ties, a local supply chain, and sustainable practices, you’re in an excellent position to take advantage of the new rules.
Key benefits of the Act for public sector suppliers:
- Enhanced focus on social value – non-financial benefits are now central to bid evaluation
- SME-friendly framework – the Act specifically encourages procurement from from smaller businesses, recognising their agility and community impact
- Simplified processes – a single, streamlined framework replaces multiple procedures, making it easier for suppliers to engage
- Stronger, longer-term partnerships – fostering sustainable, long-term relationships between public bodies and suppliers.
How to prepare for success
The Procurement Act 2023 isn’t just a policy change – it’s a strategic shift in how public sector contracts are awarded.
To succeed, your business must be able to clearly demonstrate measurable social impact alongside competitive pricing and delivery.
At CloudNine, we help businesses of all sizes navigate this new landscape with confidence. Our team of experts works with you to:
- Translate your impact into compelling, bid-ready narratives
- Align your proposals with the Social Value Model and National TOMs framework
- Strengthen your bids with evidence-based social value strategies.
Whether you’re an SME aiming to secure your first public sector contract or a larger organisation looking to improve your supply chain impact, CloudNine can help you lead with value.
Contact us today to see how we can unlock opportunities, strengthen your bids, and turn your social value into a winning advantage: [email protected].
