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New UCL print framework

10 May 2013

A new framework has been established to service UCL's print requirements, consisting of eight suppliers.

To ensure that UCL has the most capable and efficient print suppliers on the framework, a thorough tendering process has taken place over the past 18 months. The eight suppliers have been evaluated and awarded contracts that reflect their strengths. Accordingly, printers have been categorised into the following lots: digital print, lithographic, large format and web offset.

The suppliers were evaluated and subsequently awarded contracts on their ability to produce, deliver and monitor printing, including their environmental and workflow standards by a panel of representatives from Procurement Services, Communications & Marketing, Creative Media Services, Postal Services and Development & Alumni Relations.

All the newly contracted suppliers can offer personalised print, fulfilment services and storage. A few suppliers have web-2-print facilities with UCL branded stationery, business cards and templates. Secure printing for sensitive documents such as examination papers has also been provided for.

The suppliers are contractually obliged to provide an official quotation before a Purchase Order is placed and will also provide a proof for every job. They are also required to adhere to service level agreements and report centrally on a monthly basis so that performance can be monitored.

There will be many benefits to the new framework, including costs savings and transparency. The new suppliers have been briefed on the corporate identity and will be able to assist staff members in the use of UCL branding.

UCL will also be working with the suppliers on further developing online template ordering, sustainable processes and other innovative ideas throughout the contract term.

All of the print suppliers on the FIS system over the next month will be removed, therefore, please ensure that you only place orders with the suppliers on the framework. Cats Solutions, who have been UCL's sole print provider for the past 7 years, have not been successful in their bid, and all other print suppliers on FIS will be removed by 31 May 2013 Therefore please do not place orders with Cats Solutions or any other print suppliers who may still be on the FIS system.

There will be a print open day at UCL within the next three months for the UCL community to meet with the suppliers and attend presentations and workshops. In the interim, all of the suppliers are very keen to come in and meet with staff to discuss print requirements - please contact the relevant account manager.

Supplier details can be found at the following link:  www.ucl.ac.uk/commercial-procurement 

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