Scope
Reference
prj_5125
Description
This notice is to inform the market that a number of contract awards will be made in relation to the National Measurement System (NMS). The NMS is the system of laboratories and capabilities that underpin the UK's metrology. The NMS provides the UK with an infrastructure of laboratories that deliver world-class measurement science and technology and provide traceable and increasingly accurate standards of measurement. The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) and the National Engineering Laboratory (TUV-NEL) develop and maintain measurement standards that support high-precision manufacturing processes. This ensures that UK manufacturers can produce high-quality products that meet international standards.
The NMS labs support the digital economy by developing measurement techniques for emerging technologies such as quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT), helping the UK stay at the forefront of technological innovation.
Metrology labs contribute to environmental sustainability by providing accurate measurements for monitoring air and water quality, greenhouse gas emissions, and energy efficiency. This supports the UK's efforts to transition to clean energy sources and mitigate climate change.
The National Measurement Laboratory (NML) at LGC and other labs ensure the accuracy of measurements in healthcare, such as those used in medical diagnostics and pharmaceuticals. This helps improve public health outcomes and supports the development of new medical technologies.
The NMS enhances national security by developing measurement standards for critical infrastructure, cybersecurity, and emergency response. This ensures that the UK can effectively respond to and recover from various threats. The extensive scientific and technical infrastructure, expertise, and resources necessary to provide these services mean that there is an absence of competition from other providers. These contracts are therefore awarded directly.
Contract 1. DSIT NMS - NPL Advanced Manufacturing and Materials
Supplier
Contract value
- £19,060,000 excluding VAT
- £22,872,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Award decision date
19 May 2025
Standstill period
- End: 29 May 2025
- 8 working days
Earliest date the contract will be signed
30 May 2025
Contract dates (estimated)
- 2 June 2025 to 31 March 2026
- 9 months, 29 days
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 71900000 - Laboratory services
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Procedure
Procedure type
Direct award
Supplier
National Physical Laboratory
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PYDB-8862-JBYM
Hampton Road
Teddington, Middlesex
TW11 0LW
United Kingdom
Email: peter.thompson@npl.co.uk
Region: UKI75 - Hounslow and Richmond upon Thames
Small or medium-sized enterprise (SME): No
Voluntary, community or social enterprise (VCSE): No
Supported employment provider: No
Public service mutual: No
Associated people/organisations:
Dr Peter Thompson CEO, Hampton Road, Teddington, Middlesex, TW11 0LW
Contract 1. DSIT NMS - NPL Advanced Manufacturing and Materials
Contracting authority
Department for Science, Innovation & Technology
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PVWZ-3216-PVQL
22 Whitehall
London
SW1A 2EG
United Kingdom
Region: UKI32 - Westminster
Organisation type: Public authority - central government