NEPO has published a pipeline notice for NEPRO4 (NEPO503), the next iteration of its NEPRO³ neutral vendor framework for specialist professional services and consultancy. This notice is not a tender. It is an early signal to the market and a prompt for suppliers to prepare ahead of market engagement and a later tender release.
If you are a potential delivery partner (or a provider with the capability to operate a neutral vendor model), this is a useful early opportunity to shape your approach, clarify your supply chain positioning and get your evidence in order.
What is NEPRO4?
NEPO describes NEPRO³ as a neutral vendor framework delivered through a dedicated delivery partner and indicates that the next iteration is expected to continue this model. NEPO also notes that the current NEPRO³ runs until 31 August 2027, at which point the framework will be re-tendered.
The pipeline notice explains that NEPRO4 will require a delivery partner to work strategically with NEPO to deliver specialist professional services procurements across multiple categories, supporting users end-to-end.
What NEPO expects from the delivery partner
The notice sets out a clear set of capability expectations for the delivery partner, including:
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Building a strategic relationship with NEPO and continuously improving the solution
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Deep procurement knowledge and category expertise across the public sector
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Managing multiple projects at different scales across the UK simultaneously
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Maintaining a strong, qualified supply chain (the current framework includes over 6,000 suppliers and 20 service categories)
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Experience of operating a neutral vendor framework (or evidence you can)
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Monitoring supplier performance and the end-to-end process
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Strong information collation and reporting for transparency and member benefit
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A clear focus on social value and ESG benefits
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Ability to comply with rebate procedures
This is a strong hint at where evaluation will land when the tender goes live: governance, supply chain assurance, delivery model maturity, reporting and value.
Key dates and what to do now
NEPO flags that market engagement is expected around late February / early March 2026 (subject to change).
The estimated publication date of the tender notice is 18 June 2026.
The notice also provides estimated contract dates of 31 August 2027 to 30 August 2031, with a possible extension to 31 August 2035.
Suggested supplier focus by stage
Now (before market engagement)
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Confirm your delivery model: how you will run the neutral vendor process end-to-end (intake, sourcing, mini-competition management, onboarding, compliance, MI and contract management).
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Map your supply chain strategy: category coverage, supplier onboarding, supplier segmentation and performance management approach.
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Prepare ESG and social value proof points that can be evidenced through the solution, not just policy statements.
Market engagement (late Feb / early Mar 2026 expected)
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Use engagement to test assumptions: categories, operating model, expected volumes, MI requirements and rebate mechanics.
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Ask what “good” looks like to NEPO for supplier performance monitoring and reporting outputs.
Between engagement and tender publication (to June 2026)
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Convert your model into tender-ready evidence: governance diagram, process maps, reporting examples, supplier lifecycle controls, risk controls and case studies.
Why this matters for SMEs
NEPO notes particular suitability for SMEs in the notice. In practice, this sort of framework often creates opportunities for SMEs within the wider supply chain. For delivery partners, the key is demonstrating how you will support and manage a large, diverse supplier base while maintaining compliance, performance and value.
How Thornton & Lowe can help
If you are considering bidding (either as a delivery partner or as a supplier seeking a place in the wider supply chain), Thornton & Lowe can support with:
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Market engagement preparation (questions, positioning, evidence plan)
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Bid strategy and tender response planning
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Writing support and review to strengthen compliance and scoring potential
FAQs
Is NEPRO4 a live tender?
No. This is a pipeline notice and early market signal.
When is market engagement expected?
The notice indicates late February / early March 2026, subject to change.
When is the tender expected to be published?
The estimated publication date of the tender notice is 18 June 2026.
