Scope
Reference
DN770978
Description
Appointment of an experienced and innovative organisation
to partner with and help deliver the iconic Blackpool Switch-On event. The delivery partner will play a central role in shaping and executing a dynamic, high-impact event that reflects the vibrancy and cultural significance of the Blackpool Illuminations. Proposals address and integrate the following three key objectives:
Event Entertainment and Line-Up - Curate and manage a compelling programme of entertainment that appeals to a diverse audience, including securing world class headline talent and the Switch-On Celebrity. Production - Deliver a high-quality, safe, and seamless production to a provided specification that meets the expectations of a large-scale live and broadcast audience.
Marketing and Campaign - Design and implement an engaging marketing campaign that maximises regional and national visibility, drives attendance, and reinforces Blackpool's
position as a premier UK event destination. A detailed specification is available.
Contract 1. Blackpool Illuminations Switch-On Event
Supplier
Contract value
- £1,008,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Award decision date
2 June 2025
Date assessment summaries were sent to tenderers
6 June 2025
Earliest date the contract will be signed
23 June 2025
Contract dates (estimated)
- 24 June 2025 to 25 June 2026
- Possible extension to 25 June 2029
- 4 years, 2 days
Description of possible extension:
The contract is offered for 1 year with the option to extend incrementally for 36 months (likely to be +1+1+1y). The contract extensions will be subject to contract review of delivery and performance, and budget .
Main procurement category
Services
Options
The right to additional purchases while the contract is valid.
The contract shall include the right to include additional purchases by agreement with the supplier for any event or services related to provision of Illuminations switch-on and any extended programme. There is no obligation or guarantee attached to this option.
CPV classifications
- 79950000 - Exhibition, fair and congress organisation services
Contract locations
- UKD42 - Blackpool
Information about tenders
- 4 tenders received
- 3 tenders assessed in the final stage:
- 3 submitted by small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
- 0 submitted by voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE)
- 1 supplier awarded contracts
- 2 suppliers unsuccessful (details included for contracts over £5 million)
Submission
Submission type
Tenders
Procedure
Procedure type
Competitive flexible procedure
Special regime
Light touch
Supplier
PIPER MUSIC MANAGEMENT LTD
- Companies House: 05517524
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PLJW-8531-DYMZ
19 Park Road
Lytham St. Annes
FY8 1PW
United Kingdom
Region: UKD45 - Mid Lancashire
Small or medium-sized enterprise (SME): Yes
Voluntary, community or social enterprise (VCSE): No
Supported employment provider: No
Public service mutual: No
Contract 1. Blackpool Illuminations Switch-On Event
Contracting authority
BLACKPOOL COUNCIL
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PHHB-5249-RZVD
PO Box 11, Town Hall
Blackpool
FY1 1NB
United Kingdom
Region: UKD42 - Blackpool
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government