Printed Book Production/PME/PRO/2026

Descriptions

The Open University (OU) is preparing to initiate a future procurement activity for the provision of Printed Book Production Services to support the delivery of student course materials. The intended procurement is likely to result in the appointment of two suppliers under a framework style arrangement. This notice is issued to undertake Preliminary Market Engagement (PME) in order to:- - Gauge market interest, and - Gather information to inform the development of the future procurement strategy and tender documentation. Participation in the PME is voluntary and non binding. Indicative Scope (high level) The OU produces printed learning materials in a range of standard book formats and specifications. These typically include:- -Mono, two colour and four colour text -A range of trim sizes -A variety of binding formats -A mix of new titles and reprints produced in varying volumes. Further details are provided within the PME documentation. The total contract value is in the region of £5million across the framework and will alter with potential scope changes. It is anticipated that the contracts will be for a period of up to four years.

Engagement

The Open University is currently preparing to initiate a procurement activity for a dual supplier framework for it’s Printed Book Production requirements for student course module materials. We wish to engage the market to establish the level of market interest and to gather information that will be beneficial in the tendering process. Suppliers who wish to participate in the market engagement exercise should complete the preliminary market engagement questionnaire by no later than the 12th February 2026. Participation or non-participation in this pre-procurement market engagement shall not prevent any supplier from participating in a potential procurement process in the future. Link to Preliminary Market Questionnaire, via the OU’s procurement portal:- https://in-tendhost.co.uk/openuniversity