Dynamic markets: the door that never closes on public work

For years, one of the most frustrating experiences in public-sector selling was missing a framework. The window opened, you weren't ready or didn't hear about it, it closed — and the work was locked away for four years. The Procurement Act 2023 tackles that with dynamic markets, which replace the old dynamic purchasing systems (DPS) and go further.

Join whenever you're ready

A dynamic market has no closing date for membership. Suppliers can apply to join at any point during its life, and buyers must consider applications within a reasonable time. There is also no cap on the number of members — qualifying is about meeting the conditions of membership, not beating others to a deadline.

How it works in practice

The buyer establishes the market with published conditions for membership — the capabilities, standards or accreditations required. Once you're a member, you can be invited to compete for contracts awarded under that market. Establishment and changes are announced through dynamic market notices on the Find a Tender service, so the opportunities are visible rather than buried.

Dynamic markets vs frameworks

Frameworks still exist — but the Act nudges the balance. Closed frameworks are generally limited to four years, while an open framework scheme must reopen to new joiners periodically. For fast-moving categories, buyers are encouraged towards dynamic markets precisely because they don't shut newcomers out.

What to do

Watch for dynamic market notices in your categories and treat membership like a qualification you collect early: join when you spot one that matches your capabilities — before the specific contract you want appears — so that when the call-off competition lands, you're already inside the room.