What is a mini-competition in procurement terms?

A mini-competition is a procurement method typically used in the context of framework agreements. It involves conducting a limited tender exercise where suppliers who are part of a pre-approved framework are invited to submit their tenders or quotes, primarily focusing on price but may also consider quality and other factors as specified in the specifications.

This process allows buyers to obtain competitive bids or proposals without the need for a full tender process, as it utilizes suppliers who have already been vetted through the establishment of the framework. By limiting the competition to a select group of suppliers, the buyer can achieve efficiency while ensuring compliance with procurement regulations.

The nature of a mini-competition means it is not a random selection of suppliers or a full bidding process; instead, it capitalizes on an established list of suppliers who are deemed capable of fulfilling the requirements laid out by the buyer. This method not only streamlines procurement but also can foster a competitive atmosphere leading to better value for the procurement authority.