Scope
Reference
PR_5025
Description
This procurement is for research services to support the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) in understanding the technical aspects and associated risks of cladding products used in construction. The project aims to address evidence gaps in the cladding market, particularly regarding fire safety, by conducting a comprehensive literature review, stakeholder interviews, and in-depth case studies of selected cladding products. Key deliverables include an inception report, interim and final reports, information packs, and presentations. The research will inform OPSS's market surveillance priorities and support effective resource allocation for product safety.
Contract Duration (Including Extension Options)- 10 months, with an option to extend for up to 2 additional months at the discretion of the Department for Business & Trade.
Procurement Procedure- Competitive tender via a Request for Proposal (RFP) process, in accordance with Part 6 (Below-threshold contracts) of the Procurement Act 2023.
Rationale for Award- All suppliers met the minimum evaluation criteria. The contract was awarded to OFR Consultants Limited as the compliant bidder offering the lowest total cost.
Modifications to Contract Terms- No modifications to the contract terms have been made. The contract will be governed by DBT Short Form Terms and Conditions, based on the Cabinet Office Short Form.
Contract 1. Understanding the Technical Aspects of Cladding Products
Supplier
Contract value
- £80,000 excluding VAT
- £96,000 including VAT
Below the relevant threshold
Date signed
28 October 2025
Contract dates
- 3 November 2025 to 3 September 2026
- Possible extension to 3 November 2026
- 1 year, 1 day
Description of possible extension:
2 months to be enacted at DBT's sole descretion
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 73110000 - Research services
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Procedure
Procedure type
Below threshold - limited competition
Supplier
OFR Consultants (Research) Limited
- Companies House: 09834368
Sevendale House, Lever Street
Greater Manchester
M1 1JA
United Kingdom
Email: info@ofrconsultants.com
Region: UKD33 - Manchester
Small or medium-sized enterprise (SME): Yes
Voluntary, community or social enterprise (VCSE): No
Contract 1. Understanding the Technical Aspects of Cladding Products
Contracting authority
Department for Business & Trade
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PZZJ-6312-QTTD
Old Admiralty Building
London
SW1A 2DY
United Kingdom
Region: UKI32 - Westminster
Organisation type: Public authority - central government