News & Events

NEPO will be on hand to meet delegates at the online Local Government Procurement Expo (LGPE), taking place Wednesday 10 March 2021.

Oxygen Finance, sole supplier to NEPO521 Early Payment Service, have launched their first Almanac, a Third Party Spend review of 2019/2020

The National Social Value Conference 2021 will be held virtually on the 23 and 24 February 2021.

Following the publication of the Green Paper: Transforming public procurement, Cabinet Office is holding a series of free workshops for suppliers to explore the contents.

NEPO has developed a 6-month pipeline to help suppliers plan for upcoming competitive opportunities during the period January - June 2021.

NEPO has launched its NEPO Business Club programme for January to April.

NEPO418 Library Books and eBooks provides libraries across the UK with a range of fiction and non-fiction books, eBooks, DVDs and Blu Rays.

NEPO has summarised the procurement activity that will be undertaken on behalf of North East local authorities during the period January - June 2021.

Find a Tender Service will replace the UK public sector’s usage of TED for publishing tenders and subsequent contract award notices above public procurement thresholds.

As part of NEPO Business Club, NEPO is hosting the first in a series of free interactive events designed to support business recovery and to rebuild better.

DIT’s Export Academy gives small and micro-sized businesses the know-how to sell to customers around the world with confidence.

NEPO has invited suppliers to participate in market consultation activity, to help shape a new procurement solution for the UK public sector' furniture requirements.

Embleton Hall Dairies, supplier to NEPO416 Milk & Dairy Products, have introduced milk pouches to help NEPO members reduce plastic waste.

NEPO has issued an Invitation to Tender (ITT) for the renewal of NEPO202 Managed Remarketing of Vehicles & Plant.

NEPO has appointed Oxygen Finance to deliver NEPO521 Early Payment Service.

Darlington Borough Council has invited local businesses to join them at 2020 Darlington Business Week, for a series of free virtual events focussed on supporting business growth.

Following a compliant procurement process, NEPO has appointed Click Travel to deliver its travel management solution.

Darlington Borough Council has issued a pre-tender questionnaire for a solution covering the provision of day opportunities for working age adults and older people.

NEPO has launched its NEPO Business Club programme for September to December 2020.

NEPO has invited suppliers to participate in market consultation activity, to help shape a new procurement solution for election and electoral registration printing requirements.

NEPO has issued an invitation to tender for the renewal of NEPO502 Office Supplies.

NEPO, working with The Procurement Partnership Ltd (TPPL), has issued an ITT for heavy goods and specialist vehicles.

NEPO is attending Procurex National 2020, the UK's leading public sector procurement event, on 9 September.

NEPO has launched a nationally-available solution for UK public sector organisations to access translation and interpreting services.

The Supplier Development Programme Scotland (SDP Scotland), in partnership with Scottish Government, have invited businesses to attend their upcoming Meet the Buyer North 2020: Live Virtual Event on 2 September 2020.

Sunderland City Council, on behalf of NEPO, has issued an Invitation to Tender (ITT) for a new solution covering the provision of civil engineering and infrastructure works. 

NEPO608 is used by the twelve North East local authorities to fulfil statutory responsibilities under the Care Act 2014 and Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004.

NEPO has issued an Invitation to Tender (ITT) for NEPO605 Children's Complaints, Advocacy and Representations.

NEPO has issued an Invitation to Tender (ITT) for a new solution covering the provision of energy performance of buildings inspections.

Hosted by NEPO and Bloom Procurement Services. Takes place Thursday 13 August 2020 (14.00 – 15.00)

NEPO has won the 2020 National GO Award for Supplier Relationship Management.

NEPO has summarised the procurement activity that will be undertaken on behalf of North East local authorities during the period July to December 2020.

Portakabin have been appointed to NEPO and TPPL’s solution for Building Materials, and are able to assist with public sector requirements to expand physical capacity in support of social distancing guidance.

NEPO has launched a monthly newsletter promoting the range of tendering opportunities published by the twelve North East local authorities and NEPO.

On 29 June 2020, the Prime Minister announced over £1 billion funding to support the first 50 projects of a transformative ten-year rebuilding programme, starting in 2020/21.

NEPO has launched a North East Social Value group to build a community of stakeholders interested in social value and public sector procurement in the North East.

NEPO is delighted to have been shortlisted across four categories in the National GO Awards 2020

NEPO has invited suppliers to participate in market consultation activity, to help shape a new procurement solution for the acquisition of HGVs and specialist vehicles.

NEPO has issued a Selection Questionnaire for a new solution covering the provision of water retail services.

NEPO has launched a solution for the supply of rock salt to help public sector organisations meet their winter maintenance services responsibilities.

The summary of support measures available to businesses in relation to COVID-19 has been updated to reflect new guidance.

RTC North is delivering a webinar on Friday 19 June for North East organisations who are either involved in the manufacture of PPE, or considering switching focus to support the current campaign.

NEPO has developed a guide to help public sector organisations understand how prepaid cards can support their service users, suppliers and staff during challenging times.

NEPO has launched a nationally available solution for public sector organisations to access early payment services.

NEPO has launched a solution for tyre replacement and repair services available for use by public sector organisations across the UK.

Gateshead Council DPS reference DN480307

The summary of support measures available to businesses in relation to COVID-19 has been updated to reflect new guidance.

Due to COVID-19, NEPO has extended a number of solutions for up to 12 months to help business continuity and reduce pressure on the supply chain.

The NEPO Business Club has moved online to support North East businesses planning for the recovery phase of COVID-19.

The Cabinet Office has launched a Bounce Back Loan scheme to help small and medium-sized businesses affected by coronavirus.

NEPO and The Procurement Partnership Ltd (TPPL) have extended their successful partnership for a further five years, until 2025.

LGA and CIPFA publish guidance to protect the local government sector supply chain from fraud.

The Cabinet Office has launched a new ‘support finder’ tool which aims to help businesses and self-employed people identify various financial support available to them during the coronavirus pandemic.

Cabinet Office has issued guidance on the use of procurement cards as a means of accelerating payments to suppliers to support and improve cashflow.

NEPO has summarised the range of support available to businesses in relation to COVID-19.

The Cabinet Office has issued additional guidance to supplement Procurement Policy Note (PPN) 02/20 Supplier Relief due to COVID-19. The guidance relates to for construction contracts.

The Cabinet Office has issued a request for businesses to provide support in response to COVID-19.

The Cabinet Office has issued two Procurement Policy Notes (PPN) in relation to COVID-19.

The collaborative insurance solutions developed by NEPO, YPO and ESPO have won the Initiative of the Year Award at the National Insurance Awards 2020.

NEPO has issued a statement regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19).

CANCELLED: Invest South Tyneside is offering sub-contractors the chance to engage with IQA Elecnor Group regarding the installation of fibre to over 100k premises in Newcastle and the North East.

NEPO and the twelve North East local authorities have published a new policy detailing a collaborative approach to maximising the value of every pound spent.

Delivered in partnership with TPPL, NEPO219 Building Materials is available for use by public sector organisations across the UK.

The North East Local Enterprise Partnership (North East LEP) is seeking to appoint up to three digital agencies.

NEPO has commenced the procurement process for a new solution covering the supply of diesel, gasoil, kerosene, petrol and adblue.

In this case study Tony Cartledge, Company Director at HT Media explains how his participation in NEPO's supplier development programme delivered positive results for his Gateshead-based SME.

Delivered as part of NEPO Business Club, Garry Stone from B2B:North provides an introduction to social value in procurement.

NEPO have been crowned winners of the Project Award for Embedding Social Value in Procurement at the National Social Value Awards 2020.

NEPO is holding free one to one Navigating the Portal Sessions for suppliers in Newcastle on 4th February

NEPO is pleased to announce that The People's Kitchen are our nominated charity for 2020.

NEPO has commenced the procurement process for a new solution covering the provision of water retail services and associated ancillary services.

NEPO has issued an ITT for a new solution covering the provision of a Travel Management Service.

NEPO is seeking a Marketing Executive to help promote NEPO to a wide range of stakeholders, using a variety of channels.

Bidding on £6million of North of Tyne funds for improving adult education will commence in November 2019.

NEPO407 Food & General Provisions will commence 1 January 2020.

NEPO is supporting a customer insight day and webinars for public sector colleagues involved in the procurement of insurance.

NEPO has invited suppliers to participate in market consultation activity, to help shape a new procurement solution for the supply of rock salt.

NEPO has awarded a nationally-available framework agreement for the supply of both standard copier paper and specialist papers used by print rooms.

NEPO has launched a nationally-available solution for public sector organisations to access legal services.

NEPO has appointed Corona Energy as the sole supplier of its new Gas Supply solution.

Darlington Business Week, will take place from Monday 7 until Friday 11 October 2019.

NEPO has launched the third iteration of its specialist professional services procurement solution NEPRO, appointing Bloom Procurement Services as the exclusive operator.

Suppliers can now register for our new and improved technology platform Pro-vide 2.0. This new platform will allow us to deliver the best procurement route for suppliers and buyers alike.

NEPO has issued an Invitation to Tender (ITT) for a new solution covering the supply of Vehicle Parts & Lubricants for a wide range of cars, light & medium commercials, heavy goods, specialist and grounds maintenance vehicles.

NEPO’s solution for weather forecasting services went live on 1 August 2019.

Newcastle City Council has an exciting opportunity for two Commissioning and Procurement Officers to join the Commissioning and Procurement Team on a fixed term basis.

A team from NEPO are fundraising for Team Evie

Sunderland City Council, working on behalf of NEPO, has issued an Invitation to Tender (ITT) for NEPO209 Highways Technical Surveys.

Darlington Borough Council, working on behalf of NEPO, has issued an Invitation to Tender (ITT) for NEPO210 Highways Surfacing. Closing date noon 27 August 2019.

NEPO has appointed Corona Energy as the sole supplier of its new Gas Framework Agreement.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council are holding a market consultation event for their forthcoming tender for a Community Care and Support Framework.

Embleton Hall Dairies, a supplier on NEPO’s solution for Milk & Dairy Products, has invited children to learn about the journey of their milk ‘from grass to glass’ as part of National Dairy Month.

NEPO is pleased to announce that Bloom has been appointed as delivery partner to the multi-billion-pound NEPRO³ specialist professional services solution.

Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council has an exciting opportunity for a Contract Management Officer to join the Strategic Procurement Place and Corporate Team.

Darlington Borough Council has published a survey (or Soft Market Testing Exercise - SMTE) to take views from contractors involved in highways surfacing and road markings.

NEPO has been Highly Commended in the “Procurement Project of the Year (above £20M) – Local Government and Consortia” category at the National GO Awards held on 30 April 2019.

Read about how NEPO's solution for Furniture helped a local authority deliver their Local Welfare Provision scheme.

NEPO has advertised a vacancy for Support Assistant to come and join our friendly team based on Newcastle’s quayside.

NEPO is proud to be supporting the Public Sector Solutions Expo 25-26 June 2019 in London.

NEPO is seeking candidates for the role of Procurement Officer.

NEPO has raised £4,181 for Team Evie, its nominated charity for 2018.

NEPO has launched a new solution to help North East public sector bodies identify and appoint external training providers.

NEPO is holding a free webinar to help suppliers improve their confidence when using the NEPO Portal, the etendering system used by NEPO and the twelve North East local authorities.

Did you know that the NEPO Portal features a Contracts Register containing useful information to help you grow your business?

NEPO is recruiting for a range of positions to help us deliver our strategic objectives. T

Join the NEPO team as Systems Integration Project (SIP) Specialist.

NEPO has commenced the procurement of NEPRO³ , a nationally-available solution for specialist professional services.

North Tyneside Council has invited relevant suppliers to apply to join the DPS for Housing and Operational, Schools and Commercial Buildings.

We are seeking supplier' input to help develop the provision of Highways Technical Surveys. Questionnaire closes 15 March 2019.

Learn how to win professional services business with the public sector in the North East via NEPRO,

This free event is hosted by NEPO, in collaboration with Albany Contract (supplier to NEPO’s Furniture solution) and Workpattern.

Takes place Tuesday 5 February in Newcastle upon Tyne

The North East finals will take place at the Sage, Gateshead on 26 March 2019, with the closing date for entries Wednesday 13 February.

NEPO would like to wish all of our members, suppliers and stakeholders a Happy New Year!

Congratulations to Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council on receiving a National Social Value Award at the recent National Social Value Conference held 20/21 November.

The Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) awards celebrate the wealth of talent within the North East construction and engineering sector

NEPO’s nationally available solution for Furniture has been included in DfE's list of recommended deals.

NEPRO, the neutral vendor solution for specialist professional services, has been included in DfE's list of recommended deals for schools.

NEPO is a proud event partner of the Local Government Procurement Expo (LGPE) 2018

Launch event organised by Institute of Local Governance and partners, takes place 12 November in Newcastle

Visit NEPO at Stand GN34 of the North East Expo on 7 November (Newcastle)

​Learn how to win professional services business with the public sector in the North East

Nine team members from NEPO have completed the 3 Lakes Walk in aid of Team Evie.

The Public Sector Solutions Expo Manchester takes place on 20th November 2018 and is free to attend for those working in the public sector.

NEPO recently hosted a regional meeting with suppliers and Member Authorities to discuss opportunities to reduce single use plastics within its Food category and beyond.

Darlington Borough Council have invited local businesses to join them at 2018 Darlington Business Week for a series of free events focussed on supporting business growth.

NEPO has launched a series of short videos designed to help suppliers improve their public sector tendering skills.

NEPO is working with its food suppliers and other regional stakeholders to explore opportunities to work together to reduce plastic usage.

Middlesbrough Council are seeking a Placement Officer to help secure better outcomes for looked-after children.

NEPO are proud event partners to the LGPE 2018 which takes place on 28 November 2018 at the Novotel London West in Hammersmith. .

The presentations from the market consultation event held 2 July for External Training Provision

NEPO is seeking a Regional Contract Management Officer to join our team based on Newcastle's quayside.

NEPO has appointed EDF Energy as the sole supplier of its new Electricity Framework Agreement. The contract will commence from 1 April 2019.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council would like to engage with providers who can provide a short breaks service to children/young people and their families.

NEPO’s Milk & Dairy Products supplier, Embleton Hall Dairies, has shown its commitment to delivering social value outcomes, by holding a series of activity days designed to improve local children’s awareness of food production.

NEPO is seeking a Systems Integration Project Lead to join the team on a full time basis.

North Tyneside Council is holding events for suppliers to find out how to become part of the housing, repairs and maintenance supply chain.

A new and improved website has been launched for NEPRO, the neutral vendor solution for specialist professional services.

NEPO attended the Tees Valley Business Summit held on 3 July at Teesside University.

​NEPO has launched a series of short videos designed to help suppliers improve their public sector tendering skills.

NEPO's annual supplier survey results will shape our approach to procurement and inform our supplier development activity.

An engagement event for SMEs who are interested in winning public sector contracts is taking place on Wednesday 27th June 2018 at the City Library in Newcastle.

NEPO is holding a fundraising event in support of its Charity of the Year, Team Evie on 21 June.

Suppliers are invited to attend a free event to find out about becoming a supplier to South Tyneside Council.

NEPO has issued an Invitation to Tender for Grounds Maintenance Equipment and Plant Purchase.

NEPO has issued an Invitation to Tender for a Vendor Neutral Managed Service for Temporary Agency Workers.

The introduction of new General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) from 25 May 2018 has led to changes in contract provisions for solutions which involve the processing of personal data.

Durham County Council has advertised opportunities for two Apprenticeships in its Corporate Procurement team.

Durham County Council is seeking to recruit a Strategic Category Manager as part of an award winning and proactive procurement team of 23 employees.

NEPO is seeking a full-time Regional Procurement Officer (£18,070 - £30,153).

NEPO has published the second edition of its popular “Overview of Public Sector Procurement in the North East”.

NEPO has awarded twenty construction companies a place on its regional framework agreement for building construction works.

A Provider Engagement Session will be held at Newcastle City Library on 18 April 2018 in advance of a regional procurement for Children's Complaints, Advocacy and Representations.

NEPO is seeking a Systems Integration Project Lead to work on a full-time basis at our offices on Newcastle's quayside.

NEPO has been shortlisted across four categories in the national GO Awards 2018

Rob Levene, Executive Director at Bloom explains how local authorities are reaping the benefits of an alternative approach to buying professional services in a recent article with LocalGov

Sunderland City Council is seeking a suitably qualified and experienced procurement professional to join the Corporate Procurement team as a Category Manager.

The LGA has advertised for a Adviser to work with members of the National Advisory Group for local government procurement.

The organisers of the Great Exhibition of the North 2018 have invited relevant companies to tender for a range of services to support the event.

South Tyneside Council, acting on behalf of NEPO, is exploring options for the provision of Safeguarding Adult Reviews, Domestic Homicide Reviews and Serious Case Reviews.

The North East Local Enterprise Partnership and North East Combined Authority have joined forces to launch a brand new website that provides live data on the performance of the North East economy and transport infrastructure.

Newcastle City Council is holding an engagement event for providers of training services on Thursday 8 March (9.00 to 11.00) in Newcastle.

NEPO is seeking a Team Administrator to work on a full-time permanent basis at our offices on Newcastle's quayside. Salary £17,072 to £17,772

The latest edition of Supply NEPO, our quarterly newsletter for suppliers, has been published .

A summary of current and upcoming opportunities

A case study about County Durham Housing Group's usage of NEPO's Office Supplies solution

NEPO is delighted to have been shortlisted for a Public Finance Innovation Award for its work on NEPRO.

Hartlepool Borough Council is seeking a Strategic Procurement Manager. Closing date is 29 January 2018 at 12.00

NEPO is delighted to announce that Team Evie is our nominated charity for 2018.

NEPO and The Procurement Partnership Ltd (TPPL) have raised over £4,500 for Mental Health North East (MHNE).

Opportunities for suppliers to participate in The Great Exhibition of the North 22/6/18 to 9/9/18

A summary of NEPO Business Club events

Newcastle City Council is seeking a Lead Specialist (Resources).

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) will be effective from 25 May 2018. The ICO website features a useful guide and checklist.

Sunderland City Council have reported annual savings of £200K through a long-term agreement using the Insurance Services solution

Associate Members are able to access a range of NEPO’s solutions.

NEPO has a range of Energy solutions available to Associate Members.

Upcoming procurement projects in 2018

A summary of business support websites

An opportunity for NEPO contracted suppliers to showcase in the Associate Member newsletter

NEPO’s innovative approach to procuring specialist professional services has been shortlisted for two prestigious awards; LGC Awards (Innovation category) and Public Finance Innovation Awards (Good Governance category)

NEPO is committed to accelerating economic growth, prosperity and delivering social value in the North East as part of all collaborative procurement activity.

The Local Government Association's (LGA) fifth national construction conference takes place on 1 February 2018 in London.

NEPO has published the latest edition of Supply NEPO, the North East Procurement Organisation's quarterly newsletter for suppliers.

Paul Thompson, Director of Embleton Hall Dairies describes what this means for his business and offers advice to prospective suppliers to the public sector.

There are two sub-regional growth hubs available for North East suppliers interested in accessing business support.

Contracts Finder lets you search for information about contracts with the government and wider public sector worth over £10k.

Did you know that the NEPO Contracts Register could help you grow your business?

Latest figures show that NEPO’s Member Authorities’ spending with North East businesses totalled £1.5bn in 2016/17, equating to 61% of total expenditure.

NEPO continues to work with Mental Health North East to support them in their objective of improving mental health services for the region.

We’ll be at the following events in November 2017, come and see us to discuss maximising opportunities to supply the public sector.

NEPO Business Club offers free workshops,training and events for public sector suppliers based in the North East.

NEPO describes the practical steps being taken in response to the 2017 supplier survey findings.

Read about NEPO's approach to market consultation

NEPO is developing a Contract Management Framework in order to embed a consistent approach across its procurement activity, ultimately ensuring transparency and improved working relationships.

Did you know that the majority of NEPO solutions are accessible by all UK public sector organisations? This presents an opportunity for suppliers & NEPO to work together to increase business via NEPO solutions.

NEPO has awarded a solution providing the North East public sector with a compliant, value-for-money route to appoint consultancy services for construction and engineering projects.

Are you attending the Local Government Procurement Expo on 22 November in London? If so, please come and see us in the LGA pavilion.

NEPO is developing a Market Consultation Guide to ensure NEPO’s procurement solutions reflect market insight and reflect best-practice.

NEPO is developing a Contract Management Framework in order to embed a consistent approach across its procurement activity.

A summary of some of NEPO's latest procurement solutions

There has been a great deal of progress in NEPO’s Construction category with key developments in two flagship solutions.

NEPO is working on a nationally-available solution for the purchase of HGV and specialist fleet. The procurement is being undertaken as part of NEPO’s partnership with TPPL.

NEPRO provides Associate Members with a compliant route to appoint specialist professional services.

NEPO has issued an Invitation to Tender (ITT) for the provision of library books. The deadline for responses is 12 noon Wednesday 18 October 2017.

As one of the most demanding and exciting transport mega-projects in Europe, a wide range of works, goods and services will be required to deliver the HS2 programme.

NEPO has launched the procurement process for a new regional solution for Building Construction Works.

On Sunday 10 September 2017, Steven SInclair, Head of Procurement at NEPO, will take part in The Simplyhealth Great North Run in support of MHNE.

NEPO is delighted to announce our attendance at Darlington Business Week taking place from 18 to 22 September.

NEPO recently published its first edition of Supply NEPO, the new quarterly newsletter for the organisation’s contracted suppliers.

NEPO is holding a market engagement event to consult with construction contractors regarding the forthcoming Building Construction Works solution

NEPO has raised over £1,200 for Mental Health North East by climbing Skiddaw Mountain in the Lake District.

NEPO has issued its first quarterly newsletter for Associate Members.

An update on NEPO's approach to social value.

The 2017 NEPO Supplier Survey took place in May 2017 and will inform an action plan for our future activity

NEPO is seeking a Regional Procurement Officer (closing date 28 July 2017)

NEPO encourages any North East Associate Members with responsibility for winter maintenance of outdoor road surfaces to get in touch to discuss their requirements.

NEPO has invited suppliers of library books to attend informal meetings with procuring officers and librarians in advance of the procurement of a new regional solution.

Seaham Business Park is holding a free Bid Writing Workshop on Tuesday 18 July from 8.30am-10.30am at Seaham Marina.

The NEPO Business Club is delighted to have supported businesses across Middlesbrough in developing their bid writing skills at a recent event.

NEPO is pleased to announce that National Savings & Investments has recently joined as the organisation’s 300th Associate Member.

NEPO has published a useful guide for suppliers interested in competing for work with public sector organisations in the North East.

NEPO's partnership with TPPL gives our Members access to TPPL’s full range of compliant purchase and contract hire frameworks for vehicles and plant.

NEPO’s Prepaid Card Accounts solution was launched earlier in the year following extensive stakeholder engagement and market consultation.

NEPO was delighted to have recently been shortlisted for the TELCA (The Energy Live Consultancy Awards) award for Consultancy of the Year 2017.

NEPO's approach to the IR35 intermediaries legislation.

NEPO has worked in partnership with its North East Member Authorities to develop a Collaborative Procurement Strategy for the period 2017 to 2020.

Crown Commercial Service are holding a workshop on Tuesday 18 July, in partnership with NEPO, to get input from public sector buyers on the Aggregation process within Technology.

A summary of the latest procurement policy notes (PPN) from Cabinet Office.

As part of its fundraising for Mental Health North East, the NEPO team will climb Skiddaw mountain on 28 July 2017.

NEPO will hold a number of free one-to-one sessions for suppliers interested in improving their knowledge of the NEPO Portal.

Durham County Council has a vacancy for a Corporate Procurement Officer. Closing date 9 July 2017.

South Tyneside Council is holding a Local Supplier Engagement Event at South Shields Town Hall on Tuesday 4th July 2017.

Gateshead-based GB Lubricants have described how their participation in NEPO’s supplier support programme has led to growth and investment for the company.

NEPO is delighted to have been shortlisted for the TELCA (The Energy Live Consultancy Awards) award for Consultancy of the Year 2017.

Oil NRG, a supplier to NEPO’s Liquid Fuels solution, has been included in a high-profile list from the London Stock Exchange.

NEPO has awarded a regional solution for translation and interpreting services.

NEPO has invited suppliers to take part in an annual survey designed to capture views on public sector procurement.

Durham County Council’s Corporate Procurement team invite you to attend an in-depth workshop aimed at suppliers, and potential suppliers, of goods, works or services to the Council.

Find out about the benefits of registering on the NEPO Portal.

A series of insight events for public sector organisations interested in using the Insurance Services (RM3731) framework will take place in May, June and September.

Newcastle City Council has a vacancy for the position of Commissioning and Procurement Officer. Closing date is 17 April 2017.

Durham County Council has advertised two positions within Corporate Procurement. Closing date is 26 April 2017.

Public sector procurement plays a key role in ensuring that businesses understand what is expected of them and comply with the Modern Slavery Act 2015. This article provides guidance and advice for NEPO's suppliers.

Steven Sinclair, Head of Procurement at NEPO, describes NEPO's approach to IR35 intermediaries legislation.

The Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Cleveland has used NEPO’s Building Construction Works solution to appoint a build partner for the new Community Safety Hub in Hemlington, Middlesbrough.

The organisation formerly known as NEPRO Ltd has revealed that the company will be rebranded to Bloom to support its vision of opening up procurement.

NEPO has awarded a solution for the provision of Meter Operator Services.

NEPO has published a useful guide for suppliers interested in competing for work with public sector organisations in the North East.

NEPO is delighted to have been shortlisted in the Recruiter Awards 2017 for the 'Outstanding Outsourced Recruitment Organisation' category.

Sunderland City Council has shared the presentations from its 8 Feb. Meet the Buyer event on opportunities to supply high profile events in the city.

NEPO and TPPL are pleased to announce a new partnership that will enable public sector bodies to purchase and contract hire vehicles and plant at competitive rates.

NEPO has awarded a solution for the supply of catering disposables covering a wide range of products such as food containers, cups, bags and baking accessories.

Sunderland City Council is holding a ‘Meet the Buyer’ event on where suppliers can find out about upcoming opportunities to supply a variety of goods and services for some of the highest profile events in the region.

NEPO has published a survey to collect views from the Construction sector on the forthcoming tender process for a Building Construction Works framework.

The NEPO team will raise funds for Mental Health North East in 2017.

The NEPO Business Club offers a programme of free events for suppliers interested in improving their public sector tendering skills.

NEPO is holding a series of one-to-one appointments with suppliers and distributors of Milk and Dairy Products on Thursday 8 December 2016 (in Newcastle upon Tyne).

Taking place Wednesday 30th November 2016, 9.30am – 11.30am at the Learning Lounge, Hebburn Central, Glen Street, Hebburn, NE31 1AB.

NEPO has awarded a new solution for Grounds Maintenance Equipment.

NEPO has awarded a new solution for Travel Management Services to Click Travel Ltd.

Exciting opportunity for a Team Administrator to join NEPO

The North East Procurement Organisation (NEPO) has implemented a new solution for North East local authorities to purchase their liquid fuel requirements.

Taking place 16th Sept. 2016 at Aycliffe Business Park. A marketplace for broadband providers to showcase their services to Aycliffe Business Park community.

NEPO has published a short guide to help public sector buyers fully understand NEPRO - our innovative solution for the procurement of professional services.

On 28 September 2016, NEPRO Ltd is hosting a one-day conference for its clients (taking place at the British Library, London).

On 21st April 2016 NEPO extended the current Electricity Framework with npower for a further two years effective from 1st April 2017.

This free event will provide public sector colleagues with guidance, knowledge and support on making decisions around insurance service procurement.

The North East Procurement Organisation (NEPO) will be undertaking a procurement exercise shortly for the Supply of Furniture.

(Olympia Building, Teesside University, 5 July 2016) Come along and visit our stand at the Tees Valley Business Summit on Tuesday 5th July in the Olympia Building at Teesside University from 8am to 4pm.

(5th July 2016, One Trinity Green, South Shields) How to sell to the MOD The South Tyneside Business Forum (STBF) are pleased to be hosting a ‘How to sell to the MOD’ event on Tuesday 05 July 2016 at One Trinity Green, Eldon Street, South Shields, NE33 1SA.

(June 9, Business & IP Centre, Newcastle) Are you tendering for new business?  Have you won a new contract? Are you planning for growth?  If so, the Business & IP Centre are offering the following free workshop: Date: Thursday 9 June 2016 Time: 9am - 1pm Venue: Bewick Hall City Library, Newcastle, NE1 8AX The workshop is specifically aimed at businesses who are planning to take on staff or expand their workforce and will be an introduction to developing a people strategy from first thoughts through to building a successful team.

The NEPO Portal has been upgraded in order to create a much more user-friendly experience for public sector suppliers.

The North East Procurement Organisation (NEPO) in partnership with de Poel have just been added to the list of National Outsourcing Association (NOA) Professional Award winners, beating the likes of Capita and NHS SBS & Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Partnership NHS Trust to scoop a prestigious accolade for excellence in public sector outsourcing.

NEPO is delighted to announce that our work with de Poel on temporary labour provision has been shortlisted for a NOA Professional Award in the “Excellence in Business Process Outsourcing (Public Sector)” category.

The NEPO Portal will be upgrading their ProContract system on 23rd May.

The North East Growth Hub is an online platform that connects you with like-minded people and simplifies business support for SMEs in the North East region.

Are you attending Expo North East on 27 April 2016?  If so, come and visit NEPO at Stand GN36.

Durham County Council’s procurement team are holding three Procurement Workshops in April / May, to offer potential suppliers and providers an opportunity to learn more about the procurement process and gain valuable insights on how to find out about tender opportunities, how to bid effectively for them, and how we pick the winners.

The North East Procurement Organisation has entered into a four year framework agreement with twenty three successful contractors which signals their intent to move to a new more collaborative approach to civil engineering & infrastructure works across the North East region.

Taking place 10.

The North East Procurement Organisation in partnership with the North East Highways Alliance has entered into a four year framework agreement with thirteen successful contractors which signals a new more collaborative approach to highways construction.

Looking to improve and grow your business? Redcar & Cleveland Business Growth Surgery 9:30am - 12.

Taking place Wednesday 23 March at 1pm (Newcastle) NEPO is reviewing options regarding their approach to Bring Bank Recycling pending their current contract coming to an end in October 2016.

Thursday 18th February 14.

Taking place Tues 22 March at NETpark, Stockton-on-Tees (9:00 to 12:00) How can SMEs defend against sophisticated cyber threats with limited resources? How can suppliers ensure they are compliant with Cyber Essentials - a requirement for public sector suppliers when bidding for government contracts which involve handling of sensitive and personal information and provision of certain technical products and services? Signacure Resilience's FREE workshop will be packed full of useful hints and tips to enable you to create a plan of action for your organisation to control vulnerabilities and cyber risks.

Taking place on Tuesday 1 March in Jarrow (from 17:45 to 20:15) The South Tyneside Business Forum is hosting a FREE event for local businesses in South Tyneside and the wider North East.

Taking place Friday 12 February in Darlington Tees Valley Unlimited is hosting a breakfast event giving local supply chain companies the opportunity to meet key executives from two of the UK’s most significant rail projects at an executive business briefing.

(Various dates, Business & IP Centre, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8AX) FREE events for organisations with an interest in winning public sector business have been added to the NEPO Business Club Programme January - April 2016.

(Various dates, Business & IP Centre, Newcastle City Library) The January 2016 programme of events, supported by Generation North East, is now published.

(Redcar & Cleveland Leisure and Community Heart, TS10 1TD, Wednesday 27 January) Kick start your business in 2016 by attending our Construction Meet the Buyer event.

(Gateshead Civic Centre, 9 December 2015) Gateshead Council on behalf of NEPO is acting as lead spoke to arrange a Framework for Demolition Services and Asbestos Management for use by the NEPO Authorities and their partner organisations for a period of 4 years.

If you are attending the Local Government Procurement Expo at London Olympia on 18 November 2015, then please come and visit NEPO's stand in the Local Government Pavilion.

Taking place Thursday 22 October 2015 at The Xcel Centre, Newton Aycliffe, Durham.

The North East Procurement Organisation (NEPO) has issued its third annual supplier survey.

(22 September, Ramside Hall, Durham) Date: Tuesday 22 September 2015 Time: 09:00 - 13:00 Venue: Ramside Hall Hotel, Durham, County Durham, DH1 1TD Cost: FREE Suppliers and sub Constractors are being offered the chance to build business relationships with Esh Construction in the North East at their 'Meet the Buyer' event.

Following information published earlier in July, please find attached our response with full consideration of all feedback received throughout the NE12+ consultation period.

As part of an overarching review of the NEPO Electronic Tendering System, NEPO and its 12 Member Authorities are looking to review three elements of our portal service provision as outlined below: 1)    Review of the actual system; 2)    Redesigning of services; and 3)    Establishing gaps in service provision.

Is your business based in the Tees Valley?  If so, Tees Valley Unlimited ( the Local Enterprise Partnership for Tees Valley) would like to hear from you.

Provider Workshop, Friday 17th July, 1pm Tuned In! Majuba Road, Redcar, TS10 5BJ Children’s Residential Care Providers are invited to attend an afternoon workshop looking at the Tees Valley vision for future provision and the development of a framework agreement.

(South Shields, 9 July 2015) The July meeting of South Tyneside Business Forum's Construction Group will be held as follows: Venue: One Trinity Green, Laygate, South Shields Date: Thursday 09 July 2015 Time: 8.

(Friday 26 June, Business and IP Centre, Newcastle) The NEPO Business Club's Winning Business Outside the Region workshop originally scheduled for  Tuesday 16 June will now be held on Friday 26 June.

(16 June, Future Technology Centre, Washington) Tadea UK would like to invite North East SMEs* to an Energy and Fuel Efficiency Showcase of two products that will save businesses money and reduce carbon emissions.

(Business and IP Centre, Newcastle City Library - various dates) The NEPO Business Club events for the month of June are now available for you to reserve your place.

(South Shields, 18 May 2015) South Tyneside Council would like to invite you to a Local Supplier Engagement Event at Chuter Ede Education Centre on Monday 18 May.

(14 May, One Trinity Green, Laygate, South Shields) The next meeting of the South Tyneside Business Forum Construction Group will take place on Thursday 14th May 2015 at One Trinity Green, Laygate, South Shields, 8.

Newcastle City council are holding a supplier engagement event for Alternative Education Provision for Young People.

Teesside University is working with Tadea to offer a free half day simulator-based driver workshop package (worth £280) to 27 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) based in the North East*.

(Sedgefield, 18th February 2015) NEPO would like to invite all interested parties to attend the following supplier engagement event in advance of the forthcoming procurement process for the North East region's Highways Resurfacing Framework.

(North Tyneside, 12 & 18 February 2015) North Tyneside Council will be holding two sessions for transport providers to outline the tendering procedure and to demonstrate the Dynamic Purchasing System.

(The Core, Science Central, Newcastle upon Tyne 12&13 February 2015) Newcastle City Council's Business & IP Centre is encouraging small and medium sized North East enterprises to attend their 'Innovation Elevator' Programme of events.

(NETPark, Sedgefield, 25th and 26th February) The 12 local authorities across the North East and Client Commissioning Group (CCG) partners have come together to form the "NE12+ Collaborative".

(Durham University, 7 January 2015) Durham University has announced that a Supplier Development Event will be held on Wednesday, 7th January 2015 at Durham University Business School (DH1 3LB), hosted by the University's Procurement Service.

South Tyneside Council is seeking expressions of interest from organisations wishing to deliver 16-19 Study Programme provision.

South Tyneside Council is currently looking for organisations to provide a home care service for adults and older people who live within the Borough of South Tyneside.

The analysis of the 2014 NEPO Supplier Survey indicated that North East suppliers and providers would appreciate more access to finance to assist them specifically with public sector tendering.

Lord Young is currently reviewing the implementation of the Social Value Act and in support of this, the Cabinet Office are encouraging businesses and organisations of all sizes but particularly micro and small enterprises to take part in a consultation.

North Tyneside Council will commence a procurement exercise for the above tender at  the end of this month.

(25 November 2014, Belmont, Durham) The North East Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS) want to engage with training providers who have both the capacity and capability to support the region's local authorities in training their social care workforce in readiness for Care Act implementation in April 2015.

(County Hall Durham, 24th November, 27th November, 1st December) Durham County Council's Corporate Procurement team is holding a series of in-depth workshops aimed at suppliers and potential suppliers of goods, works or services to the Council.

(Gateshead College Automotive Centre, Fri 24 October 2014) Date: Friday 24 October 2014 Time: 9:30 for 10.

(Friday, 28 November 2014, Brittania Hotel, Newcastle Airport) The Percy Hedley Foundation, working in partnership with the DWP, is holding a Disability Confident event to help businesses, social enterprises and CVS groups gain an understanding of how they can provide improved services for employees who have a disability.

(Thursday 9 October 2014, Teesside University Darlington) Just four places remain for the Successful Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) event at Teesside University Darlington next week.

Children, Education and Social Care at Stockton Borough Council are requesting expressions of interest from individuals and organisations who have the ability to provide a range of specialist assessments and interventions for children and/or their families with whom the Local Authority are working.

(Thursday 2nd October 2014, East Durham College, Peterlee) Infinis, one of the UK's leading generators of renewable power, is holding a procurement event to launch their "How to do Business with Infinis" Guide.

(Friday 26th September, Eaglescliffe, Stockton) The Social Value Act has the potential to help small businesses and social enterprises become more successful in winning business with the public sector.

Thursday 16th October, 13:00 to 17:00, Committee Room 2, Civic Centre, Burdon Road, Sunderland SR2 7DN Sunderland City Council currently manage two Childcare centres which deliver a range of support for parents and children.

A recent NEPO supplier survey identified that the operations of 17% of businesses and social enterprises bidding for local authority contracts were impacted on by winter weather conditions over the past two years.

(26th September, Inspire2Learn, Eston) Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council would like to invite all Short Breaks Service providers to a consultation event as follows:- Date:  26th September 2014 Time: 9am to 12 noon Venue: Inspire2Learn, Normanby Road, Eston, Middlesbrough, TS6 9AE PROGRAMME • Refreshments (9.

(Various dates and venues) RECRUITMENT AGENCIES: COME AND MEET DE POEL! The NEPO Vendor Neutral Managed Service for Temporary Agency Staff has been awarded to De Poel - a leading expert in the temporary recruitment industry with a significant client base across multiple sectors and a managed spend of over half a billion pounds.

(Various dates, Teesside University Darlington) The NEPO Business Club Autumn 2014 events programme kicks-off with a series of training sessions that have been specifically designed to help businesses of all sizes in the Tees Valley.

(26 September 2014, Middlesbrough) Redcar and Cleveland borough Council will be holding a Short Breaks Consultation Event as follows: Date:  26th September 2014 Time: 9am - 12pm Venue:  Inspire2Learn Centre, Normanby Road, South Bank, Middlesbrough, TS6 9AE The event will be to work with current and potential Short Breaks service providers to look at the current Redcar and Cleveland Short Breaks service offer, the current market position, the shaping of the future offer and the Council's plans for tendering.

North Tyneside Council are planning to go out to tender for Supporting People to Live at Home contract, this will include a mix of short and long term interventions that enable a person to live an independent life, remain in their own home and fully engage in their community.

Crown Commercial Service and Pro5 would like to invite you to attend our free, regional insurance events taking place throughout October 2014.

Following the NE7 Provider Engagement Event (Independent Fostering Services) held on 29 July, a summary of the discussions and the NE7 group's response has now been published.

A provider engagement event regarding independent fostering services was held on 29 July 2014.

Do you want to share your experiences of tendering for North East local authority contracts?  If so, the 2014 NEPO Supplier Survey is available now for suppliers and providers to complete.

(Newcastle Civic Centre, 29 July 2014) A second provider engagement event for the NEPO Provision of Independent Fostering Services contract will be held as follows:- Date: 29 July 2014 Time: 10:00am to 12:30pm Venue: Armstrong/Stephenson Room, Newcastle Civic Centre, NE1 8QH There will be local authority representation from across the seven local authorities collaborating in this contract: Newcastle City Council, Northumberland County Council, South Tyneside Council, North Tyneside Council, Durham County Council, Gateshead Council and Sunderland City Council.

Taking place 13.

Join like-minded managers at Intraining’s Management Academy to develop your ability to support your team and improve business performance.

South Tyneside Council is reviewing its adult day care and support service provision and wishes to develop a list of providers to ensure a more flexible supply for service users.

(Takes place 20th June, 13:00 at Newcastle City Council) Are you an independent foster care agency? We currently have a collaborative arrangement whereby seven local authorities in the North East of England have been purchasing placements with independent foster care agencies since 1 April 2011.

‘Know Our Business’ Supplier Event 17th June 2014 8:00 to 16:00 Langdale Centre, North Tyneside, NE28 0HG Are you interested in Speaking to North Tyneside Council Officers who buy goods and services? Do you want to understand where our future spend intentions lie? Are you interested in bidding for work with the council? North Tyneside Council and our strategic partners Cofely, Kier and Capita are holding this event in order to provide local businesses with the information to help you do all this.

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(12th June, RMT Accountants and Business Advisers Office, Gosforth) Franchising is a tried and tested method of expanding a successful business model and getting it right is crucial to a businesses long term expansion and profitability.

Broadband infrastructure providers are being asked to support the Open Market Review (OMR) process launched by the Digital Durham Partnership.

(Takes place 16.

Durham County Council’s Corporate Procurement team are holding a series of four workshops aimed at suppliers, and potential suppliers, of goods, works or services.

The North East Procurement Organisation (NEPO) has launched its latest programme of free training for organisations interested in improving their public sector tendering skills.

The new EU Procurement Directives have now been published in the Official Journal of the European Union and can be accessed by clicking here.

NEPO recently held an information event for suppliers to learn more about the forthcoming changes to the EU Procurement Directives.

The North East Rural Growth Network is a project delivered in Northumberland, Durham and Gateshead aimed at encouraging growth in rural businesses.

South Tyneside Council will be promoting services available to support Carers during Carers Week, through a series of events, information days and presentations.

Blyth Offshore Demonstrator - Geotechnical Investigations March 2014 Deadline: Apr 1, 2014     The National Renewable Energy Centre (Narec) is seeking an experienced contractor to perform offshore geotechnical investigations for a demonstration windfarm.

The National Renewable Energy Centre (Narec) would like to highlight a number of tender opportunities that are currently on their website:   - Six Steel Slabs - deadline 25th March, 12 noon  -  500Hz Source for 3000 Hour Ageing Test - deadline 26th March, 12 noon -  HV Resonant Transformer Supply - deadline 26th March, 12 noon - 600kV Water Terminations for HV Cable Insulation Breakdown Testing, deadline 26th March, 12 noon - 100kV Test Cable Terminations, deadline 26th March, 12 noon Further details are available on their website at http://www.

Thank you to all suppliers who attended the above event at County Hall, and apologies to those who were unable to secure a place.

The National Renewable Energy Centre (Narec) wishes to procure a single sourced framework agreement for the supply of stationery items.

(25th March, Gateshead Civic Centre) ONLY 3 PLACES LEFT .

(Durham, Thursday 20th March) Durham County Council will host the next NEPO Business Briefing event on the impact of new EU Procurement Directives on North East businesses.

 (Successful Pre-Qualification, Tuesday 25th February, Gateshead, Being Different: Your people, your track record and your capabilities, Tuesday 25th March, Gateshead) As part of the NEPO Business Club, two workshops are being held in Gateshead:- Successful Pre-Qualification, Tuesday 25th February, Gateshead Civic Centre, Regent Street, NE8 1HH The Pre Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) is the very first evaluation step in the tendering process; it’s the stage that determines whether you are chosen to go on to showcase your goods or services in a tender document.

Organised by Durham County Council’s Corporate Procurement team, this free event will look at aspects of the procurement process and will be tailored specifically towards the new Adult Wellbeing opportunity.

(The TAD Centre, Middlesbrough, Tuesday 11th February 2014) NEPO working in partnership with Middlesbrough Means Business has arranged a day of appointments for businesses based in Middlesbrough.

(Taking place on Wednesday 26th February 2014 in Gateshead) Business in the Community, a business-led charity with over 850 members, is inviting a selected number of SMEs in the estate management sector to take part in an interactive free event with up to four buyers from large businesses including Sage and Northumbrian Water Group.

The North East Procurement Organisation is relocating to Newcastle Quayside.

In order to allow for some essential maintenance work to be carried out, the ProContract eTendering system and NEPO Portal will be unavailable on Saturday 25 January from 3 - 5pm.

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(Taking place Tuesday 21st January, Keelman House, Team Valley, Gateshead) The NEPO Business Club Tuesday Surgery provides organisations with the opportunity to meet with an independent tendering professional for an hour of free one-to-one support.

("Navigating the NEPO Portal" appointments, taking place Friday 17th January, Keelman House, Team Valley, Gateshead) The NEPO Portal is the online tendering system used by the North East Procurement Organisation and the 12 North East Councils.

(Taking place 2.

Company categorisation has never been more important.

(Taking place 9.

SITA UK Ltd is Northumberland County Council’s PFI Waste Management Partner.

(Taking place 2.

The European Commission has revised the thresholds at which the public sector must advertise tendering opportunities across Europe.

Please note that the NEPO office will be closed from 16:30 on Friday 20 December 2013 until 8:30am on Thursday 2 January 2014.

(Taking place 2.

The latest NEPO Business Club programme of  free events has been published.

The National Renewable Energy Centre (Narec) is looking to procure an Asset Management Database to support all existing and new assets in the delivery and recording of planned and corrective maintenance.

NEPRO is a nationally available service used by public sector organisations to engage consultants, professional services and interim support.

The Entrust Growth Fund is a £2.

(Taking place 9am to 1pm on Thursday 12 December 2013, Sutherland Building, Northumbria University, Newcastle) Getting finance at an affordable cost is one of the biggest challenges small businesses and social enterprises face.

(Taking place 10.

(Taking place on Tuesday 3rd December, The Glebe Centre, County Durham, 13.

Market Engagement on Adults Independent Advocacy Sunderland City Council is engaging with providers to seek their views regarding the delivery of advocacy services to adults within the City of Sunderland.

  (Taking place 2, 3 and 4 December 2013 at various North East locations) Are you an adviser called on to help set up or grow social enterprises? Would you like to improve your ability to find the optimal organisational structure for your clients? Geof Cox Associates will be running a series of FREE seminars in North East England in early December on behalf of the North East Social Enterprise Partnership, aimed at developing a network and resources to embed organisational structure development expertise in the social enterprise support infrastructure in the region.

(Taking place Thursday 28 November 2013 at 8am in Gateshead) If you provide advice and guidance to businesses and social enterprises - and want to find out more about the public sector opportunities available to your clients – then join us at this FREE breakfast event organised by the North East Procurement Organisation.

Are you delivering a government-funded project but you’re not a public sector organisation?  Are you a Tier 1 supplier for a local authority contract in need of sub contractors? Do you need to engage with a local supply base? The NEPO Portal Sub Contracting module could be the answer.

As businesses focus increasingly on cost savings and sustainability, you may find that clients ask you to report on your actions to improve resource efficiency, or you may need to demonstrate your commitment to improving performance within tenders.

Teesside University is running a series of free workshops to develop social enterprise ideas and concepts.

Gateshead Council has given notice that their list of Approved Contractors and Sub-contractors for Building and other Associated works is subject to revision.

Durham County Council’s Corporate Procurement team are holding a series of four workshops aimed at suppliers, and potential suppliers, of goods, works or services to the Council.

Grants are available for third sector organisations who need to become contract ready.

Northumberland County Council is launching a 'Grow Northumberland' initiative which is aimed at supporting and helping Northumberland based suppliers.

NEPO will be exhibiting at the North East Expo taking place on 13 November at the Newcastle Falcolns' ground at Kingston Park, Newcastle upon Tyne.

A new initiative is being launched by Northumberland County Council with the aim of increasing council spending in the county to help to boost the local economy.

Event date: Friday 29 November 2013 Venue: The Education Centre, Stockton on Tees Cost: Free This event, organised by the Sustainable Enterprise Partnership and NEPO Business Club, is a repeat of the event held in Gateshead on 21st October 2013.

Welcome to Supply NEPO, the North East Procurement Organisation's (NEPO) blog for organisations interested in supplying the public sector and beyond.

NEPO Business Club offers a programme of free events for suppliers interested in improving their public sector tendering skills.

Over 22,000 organisations have registered as suppliers on the NEPO Portal - the online tendering system used by NEPO and the 12 North East Councils*.