Made in Britain extends the UK government’s invitation to respond to the open consultation on reforms to public procurement, which aims to boost British industry, create good local jobs, and strengthen economic resilience.
These proposals also align with the aim of the Environmental & Social Value (ESV) Certification, a practical tool to help UK companies, particularly SMEs, by drawing out and promoting their positive contributions to the environment, UK economy and society. Scroll down to read more or click here for more information.
This consultation, led by the Cabinet Office, seeks views on a wide range of proposals to improve the public procurement process, and ensure that it creates greater opportunity for SMEs and suppliers.
Last year, Made in Britain hosted an online roundtable with Shirley Cooper OBE, Small Business Crown Representative, Cabinet Office. The session delved into the opportunities for UK SME manufacturers within the Procurement Act 2023.
Why it matters:
- Large authorities (spend over £100m/year) to set 3-year direct spend targets with SMEs/VCSEs.
- Major contracts to require suppliers to demonstrate prompt payment (average within 60 days).
Strengthening social and economic impact
- At least one award criterion in large procurements must relate to jobs, skills, or opportunities.
- Minimum 10% weighting for social value criteria.
- Contracts must include at least one KPI on social value delivery.
- Use of standardised social value metrics, co-designed with suppliers.
These priorities directly reflect the value of the ESV Certification, read on below to see how your company can align on strengthening environmental, social and economic impact.
Local delivery and flexibility
- Authorities can define where social value is delivered (contract location, supplier base, or area of responsibility).
Transparency and accountability
- Greater visibility of payment performance and public interest tests for outsourcing.
These changes aim to make the procurement process simpler, fairer and more accessible to small suppliers, while delivering stronger outcomes for communities and the economy.
How to respond
Deadline: 5 September 2025
Complete the Cabinet Office consultation survey here
Direct queries to: procurement.reform@cabinetoffice.gov.uk
Made in Britain also encourages members to contact us to share their experience or collaborate on a collective response. Your insights will help ensure the voice of British manufacturers is heard.
Get in touch: trade@madeinbritain.org
Environmental & Social Value (ESV) Certification
The proposals in this consultation closely align with the objectives of Made in Britain’s Environmental & Social Value (ESV) Certification.
The ESV Certification is designed to inform, engage and empower UK companies, particularly SMEs, by drawing out and promoting your company’s existing contributions and commitments to people, planet and place. It helps your company communicate that value and positive impact clearly to stakeholders, whether they are consumers, buyers, government bodies, or investors.
The ESV Certification also supports tracking your company’s impact over time and staying aligned with evolving policy, helped by our close, ongoing relationship with the Cabinet Office.
Whether you work in marketing, sustainability, procurement or bids, the ESV Certification helps you gain a commercial edge in a competitive UK market, using language aligned with public sector procurement priorities.
It’s also a practical tool:
- Takes 10–15 minutes to complete
- Priced at £390 (excluding VAT)
- Valid for 12 months
- Includes a bespoke ESV Certificate and a tailored ESV Pack
To learn more read here or to register interest contact: esv@madeinbritain.org
By Made in Britain 2 months ago | Government & Supply Chains