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What Is the Competitive Flexible Procedure?
This is a UK procurement term. The Procurement Act 2023's flexible route, where the buyer designs its own process — shortlisting, negotiation, dialogue, demonstrations or several tender rounds.
What can a buyer include in the procedure?
Any stages it considers appropriate, such as shortlisting, negotiation, dialogue, demonstrations or several tender rounds, as long as they are set out in advance.
When is it used?
Typically for complex or innovative requirements where the buyer benefits from talking to suppliers before fixing the final solution.
What should suppliers look for in the tender notice?
The planned stages, how shortlisting works and whether the buyer reserves the right to award on initial tenders without negotiating.
