Scope
Reference
CU.2096.MP
Description
This Procurement Plan outlines the rationale and process for awarding a direct contract to StudyLink Tours for the provision of an International Study Tour to Toulouse in March 2026. The tour is designed to support Cardiff University’s educational objectives by providing students with an immersive international learning experience aligned with their academic curriculum.
StudyLink Tours has been selected due to its proven expertise in organizing educational group travel, compliance with ABTA and ATOL financial protection standards, and robust risk management framework, including audited accommodation and transport providers. The supplier offers preferential group rates, sustainability measures such as carbon offsetting, and a dedicated Account Executive to ensure continuity and quality of service.
This document details the estimated contract value, key stakeholders, funding arrangements, and risk considerations, ensuring transparency and adherence to Cardiff University’s procurement policies. The direct award approach is justified by the specialist nature of the service, the need for continuity, and the time-sensitive nature of securing flights and accommodation at competitive rates.
Contract 1. International Study Tour 2026 –Toulouse
Supplier
Contract value
- £39,300 excluding VAT
- £47,160 including VAT
Below the relevant threshold
Award decision date
24 November 2025
Earliest date the contract will be signed
28 November 2025
Contract dates (estimated)
- 23 March 2026 to 27 March 2026
- 5 days
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 63000000 - Supporting and auxiliary transport services; travel agencies services
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Information about tenders
- 1 tender received
- 1 tender assessed in the final stage:
- 1 submitted by small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
- 0 submitted by voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE)
- 1 supplier awarded contracts
- 0 suppliers unsuccessful (details included for contracts over £5 million)
Procedure
Procedure type
Below threshold - limited competition
Supplier
NST TRAVEL GROUP LIMITED
- Companies House: 02665024
Discovery House Brooklands Way
Blackpool
FY4 5LW
United Kingdom
Email: info@studylinktours.co.uk
Region: UKD45 - Mid Lancashire
Small or medium-sized enterprise (SME): Yes
Voluntary, community or social enterprise (VCSE): No
Contract 1. International Study Tour 2026 -Toulouse
Contracting authority
Cardiff University
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PHVT-4343-HWYR
Procurement Services
Cardiff
CF24 4HQ
United Kingdom
Contact name: Mateusz Piorczynski
Email: PiorczynskiM@cardiff.ac.uk
Website: http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/business/why-work-with-us/for-suppliers
Region: UKL22 - Cardiff and Vale of Glamorgan
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government
Devolved regulations that apply: Wales