Leeds-based strategic communications agency CDS has seen off tough competition to be named as one of seven key suppliers on the latest print management framework from Crown Commercial Service – the executive agency of the Cabinet Office.
Under the agreement, CDS – which already works with many public sector organisations, including Wakefield Council – will be invited to mini-tender further opportunities to provide a fully managed, end-to-end print management solutions across the public sector and wider public sector.
Having worked closely with Crown Commercial Service since 2012, this is the third time CDS has been appointed to the framework – a popular route to market for those operating within the associated procurement teams – with the latest iteration remaining in place until 2024.
Following a rigorous application process, acceptance onto ‘Lot 2’ of the framework is expected to contribute significantly to CDS’ revenue over the next four years. Such growth will also see the firm recruiting additional client services personnel and print buyers to manage the uplift in demand.
With the capacity to source all manner of printed content, from ‘ink on paper’ and fire retardant and water-resistant posters, through to product labels, signage, and instruction manuals, CDS has delivered print management solutions to numerous public sector clients to date, including the Ministry of Defence, Met Police, and Transport for London – with the production of all tube maps.
David Burton, principal account director (public sector) for CDS explained: “CDS has a long history and strong reputation within the public sector, thanks to our roots in this area. This helps our team to empathise with the needs of those operating within the space – which are quite different from those in private limited companies.
“Winning a place on this framework is vital to CDS' ability to work alongside the public sector in relation to print management contracts – and it will see our services across this sector increase. It’s our job to provide help and advice to clients to ensure they invest in a solution that’s fit for purpose – and don’t pay over-the-odds for things they don’t need.”
Crown Commercial Service supports the public sector to achieve maximum commercial value when procuring common goods and services. In 2019/20, CCS helped the public sector to achieve commercial benefits worth over £1bn – supporting world-class public services that offer best value for taxpayers.
