Tender opportunity: Suppliers sought for community and acute equipment and services

BHTA members supplying healthcare and mobility equipment are encouraged to review a new tender opportunity launched by NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS).

NHS SBS has issued a major framework tender for the provision of Community and Acute Equipment and Services, including continence products and delivery. The framework, reference SBS10525, aims to establish a comprehensive supply route for NHS and social care organisations across the UK. The total estimated value of the framework is £500 million (excluding VAT), running for a period of four years from 4 January 2027 to 3 January 2031.

Tender overview

The framework is divided into five lots:

Lot 1

Community and Acute Equipment – aids to daily living, moving and handling, clinical furniture, patient treatment couches, with associated repair and maintenance services.

Lot value: £500 million (excluding VAT)

Lot 2

Beds and Mattresses – manual and electric beds, static, dynamic and hybrid mattresses, and seating.

Lot value: £500 million (excluding VAT)

Lot 3

Wheelchairs – standard, bariatric, paediatric and portering models, with related servicing.

Lot value: £500 million (excluding VAT)

Lot 4

Combined Lot – a one-stop option for suppliers awarded to two or more lots, supporting integrated or managed service models.

Lot value: £500 million (excluding VAT)

Lot 5

Continence Products Home Delivery Service – supply and delivery of continence and self-care products for use in home settings.

Lot value: £500 million (excluding VAT)

Suppliers may bid for one or more lots. NHS SBS notes that sustainability and social value will form a significant part of the evaluation criteria.

Procurement details

• Procedure: Open procedure under the Procurement Act 2023
• Tender submission deadline: 12pm on 13 March 2026
• Enquiry deadline: 12pm on 23 February 2026
• Contract award date (estimated): 11 November 2026
• Evaluation criteria: Quality 70 percent, price 20 percent, social value 10 percent

Tenders must be submitted electronically via the SAP Ariba portal.

Key information for suppliers

This framework will support NHS and social care organisations in procuring essential community and acute equipment efficiently and ethically. SMEs, VCSEs, and established suppliers of healthcare products and services are encouraged to review the full tender documentation and consider participation.

For further information, suppliers can contact nsbs.categorymanagementsourcing@nhs.net.