Multi Operator Framework Agreement for Local Enterprise Office - Kerry, Cork City, South Cork, Cork North and West Local Enterprise Offices Lean For Business Programme

AI-generated analysis of the documents. Check the official notice and any amendments for current submission details.

1. At a glance

2. Scope of Work

The Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Kerry is establishing a multi-operator framework to deliver the Lean For Business Programme across multiple regions including Kerry, Cork City, South Cork, and Cork North & West. The framework aims to enhance management skills and productivity in micro and small enterprises by applying Lean principles.

Key activities include:

• Initial Workshop: A half-day introductory workshop for participants covering:

• Overview of Lean principles and their benefits.

• Lean tools and techniques relevant to businesses.

• Roadmap for implementing Lean in their operations.

• Project selection and scoping tailored to individual businesses.

• Full Lean Assignment: Following the initial workshop, participants may apply for a full in-company assignment, which includes:

• A minimum of 3 half days and a maximum of 5 half days of direct Lean consultancy.

• Ongoing support from a Lean mentor over a 20-week period to ensure successful project completion.

• Deliverables:

• Action Plan for each client.

• Online project report submission to the Local Enterprise Office, detailing objectives, activities, challenges, impacts, and identified cost savings.

The framework anticipates no guaranteed additional contracts but allows for consultation with framework members for any arising needs.

3. Background & buyer context

This procurement aligns with the strategic objectives of the Local Enterprise Offices of Cork and Kerry to enhance management capabilities in micro and small enterprises. The Lean For Business Programme is designed to support business owners in adopting Lean methodologies, which have demonstrated significant improvements in productivity and profitability. The initiative reflects a broader government policy aimed at fostering economic growth through enhanced business practices.

4. Eligibility & selection criteria

Bidders must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Turnover requirement: Minimum turnover of €50,000 during one of the last three years; firms must have been in existence for at least 6 months.
• Insurance:
• Employers Liability: €13,000,000
• Public Liability: €6,500,000
• Professional Indemnity: €1,000,000
• Certifications: Not specified for this tender.
• Past experience: Evidence of successful delivery of at least 2 comparable contracts related to Lean consultancy.
• Personnel: Not specified for this tender.
• Geographic / facility constraints: Not specified for this tender.

5. Award criteria & scoring

Bids will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

The overall scoring will be based on the most economically advantageous compliant tender. A minimum score of 70% in Criteria B and C is required for eligibility.

6. Submission requirements

Bidders must submit the following documentation:

• Method statement / response document: Follow the provided template with no specified page limits.
• CVs: For key personnel, no specified page count.
• Pricing schedule: Must adhere to the specified format and template.
• Case studies: Two examples of relevant past projects, each no more than one A4 page.
• Declarations: Include ESPD, Bona Fides, Tax clearance, and Conflict of Interest declarations.
• Mandatory site visit: Not specified for this tender.
• Submission portal: Tenders must be submitted via www.etenders.gov.ie only.

7. Key dates & process

8. Contract terms that matter

Key contract terms include:

• Duration: 24 months with an option to extend by 12 months.
• Payment terms: Payment upon receipt of a satisfactory final report and invoice.
• Key SLAs/KPIs: Regular performance reports required from the contract manager.
• Liquidated damages: Not specified for this tender.
• Termination clauses: Not specified for this tender.
• IP ownership: Not specified for this tender.
• Sub-contracting rules: Allowed, but the lead contractor must be clearly identified.

9. Risks, red flags & unusuals

Potential risks include:

• The requirement for a minimum turnover of €50,000 may limit participation from newer firms.
• The framework anticipates no guaranteed contracts, which may deter bidders seeking assured work.
• The maximum daily rate of €900 may restrict competitive pricing strategies.
• The need for two comparable past projects may disadvantage smaller firms without extensive portfolios.

10. SME fit assessment

This tender is accessible to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with relevant experience in Lean consultancy. Viable bidders should have:

• A proven track record in delivering Lean training and consultancy services.
• The ability to form consortia or subcontract to meet capacity requirements.
• An estimated bid preparation effort of approximately 5-10 days, depending on existing resources.
• A moderate Pwin signal due to the potential for competition from established firms with prior experience in similar frameworks.

11. Where to dig deeper

• Source RFT filename: Lean draft 2026 Request for Tender Multi-Operator Framework Open Procedure (RFT).pdf
• eTenders CFT ID: Not specified.
• Contact email: Queries should be submitted via the Questions and Answers facility on www.etenders.gov.ie.
• Important attachments: Appendix 1 — Framework Terms and Conditions, Tender Response Document (TRD).