Procurement for Wifi Access Points

Descriptions

L&Q currently operates a large estate of over 230 remote sites supported by legacy Meraki Access Points (APs), many of which are approaching or have already reached end-of-support. Notably, 50 Meraki MR18 devices became unsupported as of 31 March 2024, with the remainder due to expire by July 2026.

This presents a significant risk to network reliability, security, and compliance. In response, we have initiated a refresh project to modernise and standardise the AP infrastructure. While Thrive has provided recommendations based on Meraki technology, we are pursuing a vendor-agnostic and supplier-neutral procurement approach to ensure the selected solution aligns with our technical, operational, and commercial requirements.

This strategy enables us to evaluate multiple vendors through structured trials and select the best-fit solution via a compliant public sector procurement route, ensuring long-term supportability and value for money.

Engagement

1. Introduction This notice is issued in accordance with the Procurement Act 2023 to inform interested suppliers and stakeholders that preliminary market engagement (market research) relating to the above procurement has already been completed. The purpose of this notice is to ensure transparency and to notify the market that engagement activities have taken place prior to the commencement of the procurement process. 2. Summary of Market Engagement • The contracting authority has conducted market research to better understand the market, supplier capabilities, and potential solutions. • This consisted of structured trials with a few providers. • No further market engagement is planned prior to the issue of the tender. • All suppliers will have equal opportunity to participate in the forthcoming procurement process. 3. Next Steps • The procurement process will proceed in accordance with the Procurement Act 2023 and all relevant regulations.