As the Procurement Act 2023 begins to reshape the UK’s public procurement landscape, suppliers across the country are navigating a period of significant transition. On 6 August 2025, Tracker and Procurement Act Live hosted an exclusive webinar with Carl Thomas, Implementation and Governance Lead at the Welsh Government, to explore how the Act is being implemented, and what suppliers can do to stay ahead.
With a wealth of policy experience and deep connections across the Welsh public sector, Carl has been instrumental in driving forward the implementation of the Act. In conversation with Christian Doak of BiP Solutions, he shared critical reflections on how the public sector is adapting, what the new environment means for suppliers, and how businesses can position themselves for success.
Here are our key takeaways from the session.
The Act is Live—Now Comes the Real Work
While the Procurement Act officially came into force in February 2025, the months since have marked the true beginning of implementation. As Carl explained, ’The legislation is the starting point, but embedding new behaviours, expectations, and capabilities across the public sector is where the transformation happens.’
Public bodies are now interpreting the guidance, updating internal processes, and realigning their strategies to deliver smarter, socially responsible procurement. For suppliers, this means real-time shifts in how tenders are written, how engagement happens, and how bids are evaluated.
From MEAT to MAT: A Genuine Mindset Shift
One of the most talked-about changes in the Act is the move from ‘Most Economically Advantageous Tender’ (MEAT) to ‘Most Advantageous Tender’ (MAT). But Carl stressed this isn’t just a change in language—it’s a signal of a deeper evolution in procurement culture.
’We’re seeing a greater emphasis on well-being, innovation, and long-term outcomes,” he said. “Buyers are thinking differently about what makes a bid ‘advantageous’—and that opens doors for suppliers as it will give them much greater opportunity to showcase innovation and community impact.’
Supplier Engagement is No Longer Optional
Early market engagement has been formally elevated in the new regime, and buyers are being actively encouraged to engage with the market before tenders are issued. For Carl, this presents a major opportunity for suppliers.
’Those who participate in pre-market engagement will be better informed, better aligned with buyer priorities, and ultimately better placed to win,’ he noted.
Transparency and Consistency Are Coming into Focus
A key ambition of the Act is to create a more open and accessible procurement system—particularly for SMEs. According to Carl, early signs are promising, with greater consistency across public bodies and a strong push towards making processes clearer and more standardised.
’There’s a genuine intent to demystify procurement and reduce unnecessary complexity,’ he said. ’SMEs shouldn’t be discouraged by the word ‘reform’—they should see this as their moment.’
Innovation Is the New Advantage
Carl highlighted that buyers now have more flexibility than ever to take innovative approaches, especially when it comes to designing procurement routes and awarding contracts.
’Procurement is no longer about ticking boxes. It’s about thinking strategically, maximising outcomes, and working in partnership,’ he said. ’Suppliers who can speak that language, who can show innovation, creativity and collaboration—will be in high demand.’
What’s Next? More Support, More Clarity
As the webinar concluded, Carl gave a preview of what’s coming next: updated guidance, more training resources, and a continued drive to help both buyers and suppliers adjust to the new rules.
His message to suppliers was clear: ’Don’t wait. Understand the changes, engage with buyers, and make sure your organisation is ready to succeed in this new environment.’
Continue the Conversation at Procurement Act Live
To hear from other procurement leaders, join us at Procurement Act Live – The Journey So Far at ExCel London on 14 October. This key industry event will explore how the Act is transforming procurement in practice, and what it means for your organisation.
Learn more and register: www.procurementactlive.co.uk
You can catch up on webinar here or register for any of our upcoming webinars here.
