Engagement process description
Individual initial market engagement sessions were undertaken by Eunomia (consultants appointed to provide specialist procurement support to NCC in preparation for the re-tendering of the Dry Recycling Collections contract) with all of the suppliers of dry recycling collection services for local authorities across the UK.
In addition, Eunomia also engaged with Plan B who operate services for Bridgend CBC but are a newer market entrant, and Paprec a French owned company who are looking to break into the UK market.
These sessions were essential to the market understanding an opportunity was going to be published. Sessions were held individually to facilitate an open dialogue about key issues which would impact the market’s decision to submit a proposal.
A summary of the key issues raised in these discussions is provided below and has been used to inform the development of the specification, contract and payment and performance mechanism.
• Method of collection of dry recycling: NCC operates a highly performing recycling collection system which is compliant with the Welsh Government Collections Blueprint, however this method of collection is not favoured by the market due its operational complexities. Therefore, all but two companies stated that this would be a reason for not participating in the procurement process.
• Timing and Contract Size: The market is currently very busy with multiple very large opportunities, therefore there is limited capacity within teams to respond to new opportunities and the size of this contract limits the margin which can be made.
• Availability of Depot and Vehicles: NCC does not own a depot, reprocessing facility or vehicles for any new contractor to use from the start if the contract. Although this does not mean companies would not bid, it limits interest in the opportunity.