Update on Government's 25% target of contracts for SMEs

23rd January 2012

... Comments

An interesting article following an interview with Stephen Allott, summarises his views on the importance of the 25% target and ideas on what needs to happen to help facilitate its success.

The main points are:

having the target at least means that it is being focussed upon
some government departments stipulate the use of SMEs in the supply chain of first tier suppliers
the Supplier Feedback Service (SFS) is there to promote good practice across the public sector - this is the best place to go with your comments or complaints about public sector procurement
contract sizes being reduced would help SMEs to compete but certain government departments would struggle with this, eg Ministry of Defence.

At Thornton & Lowe, we give free impartial advice to SMEs on whether a tender is the 'right' opportunity for their business. Contact us on 0845 862 0154 or email: hello@thorntonandlowe.com.