Guide
The Procurement Act 2023: what small suppliers need to know
The Procurement Act 2023 changed how public bodies in the UK buy. It came into force on 24 February 2025 and asks buyers to consider barriers facing small suppliers. For you, that means new notice types, a central place to register your details, and clearer rules on how bids are assessed.
Last updated 22 October 2026
When did the Act come into force?
It went live on 24 February 2025, according to techUK's summary. Contracts started under the old rules can continue under them, so you may see both systems for some time.
What changed for small suppliers?
- Public bodies must consider the barriers small and medium-sized businesses face when they plan a procurement.
- Notices are published in new forms through a central digital platform, and some smaller opportunities now appear there.
- Suppliers can register once and reuse their details across bids.
- Rules on how bids are assessed and how decisions are explained are clearer.
What should you do now?
- Register on the central platform and keep your details up to date.
- Read each notice for its type, because the notice type tells you what stage the buyer is at.
- Watch planning and pipeline notices, which give you earlier warning than a tender.
- Keep your standard documents, such as policies, insurance and references, ready to use.
Where can you check the details?
The government publishes guidance for suppliers on the act, and it is the right place to check rules, thresholds and dates. This page is a general guide, not legal advice, and it does not quote thresholds, because they change.
How Opptix helps
Opptix watches early notices and contracts about to end, so you can prepare earlier. It screens each opportunity against your profile, so you do not have to read every notice. See how to find council tenders and contracts about to expire.
Frequently asked questions
When did the Procurement Act 2023 start?
It came into force on 24 February 2025.
Does the Procurement Act help small businesses?
It asks public bodies to consider barriers to small suppliers and makes more opportunities visible, but you still need to compete on quality and price.
Do I need to register anywhere?
There is a central platform where suppliers register their details once. Check the guidance and the notice for what is needed.
Is this legal advice?
No. It is a general guide. Check the official guidance for your own situation.
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