The Crown Commercial Service (CCS) is preparing a major travel and accommodation procurement framework to support public sector travel needs across the UK and overseas. The framework, with an estimated value of £10,800,000,000 including VAT, is designed to cover a comprehensive range of travel, transport, accommodation and venue services.
This article explains:
- what the framework will cover
- key dates and engagement opportunities
- how public sector buyers will use it
- why early preparation gives suppliers a competitive edge
- how Thornton & Lowe can help you win
What Is the CCS Global Travel Framework?
The Global Travel, Accommodation and Venue Management Services framework (CCS reference: RM6408) will provide a suite of solutions for public sector travel and accommodation needs. Services covered are expected to include:
- Air, rail, coach and taxi bookings
- Vehicle hire (including EVs)
- Accommodation for business travel, events and civilian programmes
- Venue sourcing for conferences, meetings and hybrid events
- Emergency and crisis travel arrangements
- Welfare and security services tied to civilian accommodation solutions
The framework is expected to run for four years from April 2027 to April 2031 (with a possible extension), making this a substantial long‑term public sector travel procurement.
Engagement and Submission Timeline
- Market engagement deadline: 30 April 2026
- Estimated publication of tender notice: 14 October 2026
- Contract start: 14 April 2027 (estimated)
During the engagement phase, CCS will gather insights from suppliers and buyers via surveys and focused sessions to shape the final framework scope, terms and routes to market.
Who Can Use This Framework?
This agreement will be open to a wide range of public sector bodies, including:
- Central government departments
- Local authorities
- NHS trusts and health bodies
- Emergency services and blue light organisations
- Universities and colleges
- Charities and third sector bodies with eligible procurement status
The framework will support both business travel and specialist civilian programmes, such as accommodation for vulnerable groups under public sector care, emergency evacuation services, medical repatriation, or crisis response travel arrangements.
Interested in bidding?
Get expert supportWhy This Framework Matters
1. Huge Scale and Scope
At £10.8bn, this framework is one of the largest public sector travel and accommodation procurements in recent years. It covers the full travel lifecycle, from booking to execution and emergency response, providing ongoing opportunities for capable suppliers.
2. Comprehensive Service Offering
Unlike niche travel agreements, RM6408 is designed to meet multi‑modal travel, venue and conference requirements, and complex civilian accommodation needs, all under one roof. Its broad scope means suppliers can align services to multiple use cases.
3. Flexible Routes to Market
CCS frameworks typically allow:
- Direct awards where requirements align with standard terms
- Further competitions where buyers have bespoke needs
- 24/7 support and booking platform access
This flexibility allows buyers to choose the most efficient procurement path for their needs.
What Suppliers Should Do Now
To maximise your chances of success once the tender goes live, start preparing during the market engagement period. Here’s how to get ready:
Participate in Market Engagement
This is your early opportunity to influence how the framework will operate, including:
- Delivery models
- Contract terms and conditions
- Customer journey expectations
- SME access and subcontracting routes
Make sure your views are heard before the engagement deadline on 30 April 2026.
Build Your Travel and Accommodation Capability Pack
Framework bids are won on clarity and quality of evidence. Prepare:
- Case studies aligned to travel, logistics and emergency service delivery
- Compliance records and quality management systems
- Supporting service narratives (e.g., welfare service delivery, crisis management)
- Sustainable travel options and CO₂ reporting capabilities
This preparation will put you ahead when the official tender launches.
Consider Your Commercial Strategy
Whether you’re a travel management specialist, hotel group, transport provider or tech booking platform, this framework rewards well‑crafted value propositions. Think about:
- How your pricing meets public sector needs
- Added‑value services such as duty of care systems, traveller tracking, sustainability reporting
- Ancillary offers — e.g. visa support, currency services, carbon reporting tools
These elements are increasingly important in scoring panels.
How Thornton & Lowe Can Support You
Winning large public sector frameworks takes planning, experience and a strategic approach. We help suppliers at every stage:
Bid Writing Services
We draft tailored responses that align with evaluation criteria, emphasise quality and demonstrate social value.
Bid Training
Equip your team with practical skills for future tenders and complex multi‑component frameworks.
Bid Strategy & Mentoring
From evidence planning to pricing strategy, we help you position your organisation effectively.
Framework Readiness Reviews
Make sure your documentation, quality systems and commercial model are primed for submission.
Let’s help you turn a large opportunity into a winning bid.
Final Thoughts
The Global Travel, Accommodation and Venue Management Services framework from CCS is a landmark public sector procurement. With a £10.8bn estimated value and broad scope across travel, accommodation and event services, this framework will shape public sector procurement for years.
The market engagement phase is a rare chance to have your voice heard and prepare thoroughly ahead of publication.
Get started now so you can respond with confidence when the formal notice is published later this year.
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