KCETB Single-Party Framework for Metalwork/Engineering Class Materials

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 tender involves the establishment of a Single-Party Framework for the supply and delivery of Metalwork/Engineering class materials to Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB) schools and centres. The framework is intended to support the delivery of various educational programs, including the Junior Cycle technology programmes, Junior Certificate Vocational Programme, Leaving Certificate, and Further Education and Training Services.

The contractor will be responsible for the following activities:

• Supply of Materials: Provide a range of metalwork and engineering materials as specified in Appendix 1 of the RFT.
• Delivery: Ensure timely delivery of materials, with a maximum delivery window of 1 week (3-5 working days).
• Volume Management: Manage variable quantities based on usage and wear and tear, with orders expected to peak between September to November and January to March.
• Quality Assurance: Ensure all materials meet the required standards for educational use, specifically tailored for Metalwork/Engineering classes.
• Flexibility: Adapt to changes in material requirements over the contract period, as the list of materials may be subject to additions or omissions based on evolving educational needs.
• Framework Agreement: Operate under a framework agreement that does not guarantee specific purchase quantities but aims to leverage efficiencies and cost savings.

The successful contractor will not need to compete for each new order under the framework but must be prepared to fulfill varying demands throughout the contract term.

3. Background & buyer context

This procurement is initiated by the Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board to enhance the educational resources available for Metalwork and Engineering classes. The initiative aligns with national educational policies aimed at improving vocational training and technology education in secondary schools and further education settings. The framework is designed to streamline procurement processes and ensure consistent quality and availability of materials for teaching purposes. The contract is not tied to any specific incumbent supplier, allowing for open competition among bidders.

4. Eligibility & selection criteria

Bidders must meet the following eligibility and selection criteria to be considered for evaluation:

• Turnover requirement: Minimum average annual turnover of €100,000 for the years 2022, 2023, and 2024, or pro-rata if more recently established.
• Insurance:
• Employer's Liability: €13.6 million
• Public Liability: €6.5 million
• Product Liability: €6.5 million
• Professional Indemnity: not specified for this tender
• Certifications: not specified for this tender.
• Past experience: not specified for this tender.
• Personnel: not specified for this tender.
• Geographic / facility constraints: not specified for this tender.

Bidders must ensure compliance with all specified requirements to avoid disqualification.

5. Award criteria & scoring

Bids will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

The evaluation will follow a Most Economically Advantageous Tender (MEAT) approach, balancing price and quality.

6. Submission requirements

Bidders must submit the following documentation:

• Method statement / response document: Use the provided template with a maximum of 10 pages.
• CVs: Include CVs for key personnel, limited to 2 pages each.
• Pricing schedule: Complete the pricing schedule as per Appendix 2.
• Case studies: Provide 2 case studies of similar projects, with values ranging from €50,000 to €200,000.
• Declarations: Include ESPD, Bona Fides, Tax clearance, and Conflict of Interest declarations.
• Mandatory site visit: Not specified for this tender.
• Submission portal: All submissions must be made via the eTenders platform, following specific format rules.

7. Key dates & process

8. Contract terms that matter

Key contract terms include:

• Term and extensions: Initial term of 12 months, with the possibility of up to three 12-month extensions.
• Payment terms: Payments will be made upon receipt of goods and acceptance by KCETB.
• Key SLAs/KPIs: Timely delivery within the specified 1-week window.
• Liquidated damages: Not specified for this tender.
• Termination clauses: The contract may be terminated with 14 days' notice.
• IP ownership: Not specified for this tender.
• Sub-contracting rules: Allowed, but a prime contractor must be designated.

9. Risks, red flags & unusuals

Potential risks and concerns for bidders include:

• Turnover threshold: The minimum turnover requirement of €100,000 may limit participation from smaller firms.
• Variable order quantities: The lack of guaranteed purchase volumes could lead to unpredictability in revenue.
• No incumbent: The absence of an incumbent supplier may create uncertainty regarding the competitive landscape.
• Delivery expectations: The tight delivery window of 1 week may pose challenges for suppliers with limited capacity.

10. SME fit assessment

This tender is accessible to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that can demonstrate the following:

• Credible bidders: Firms with a turnover of at least €100,000 and experience in supplying educational materials or similar products.
• Consortium/sub-contracting: Allowed, enabling smaller firms to partner with larger enterprises to meet requirements.
• Bid-prep effort: Estimated preparation time of 5-10 days, depending on the complexity of the proposal.
• Pwin signal: The absence of an incumbent may provide opportunities for new entrants, but the turnover threshold may limit participation.

11. Where to dig deeper

• Source RFT filename: KCETB RFT for the Supply of Metalwork and Engineering Class Materials.pdf
• eTenders CFT ID: GoodsRFT160125
• Contact email: Not specified; use the messaging facility on eTenders for queries.
• Important attachments:
• Appendix 1: Requirements and Specifications
• Appendix 2: Pricing Schedule
• Appendix 3: Tenderer’s Statement