Manufacture, Supply and Installation of Timber Signage for Scotland’s National Nature Reserves

Description

NatureScot intends to establish a single-supplier framework agreement for the manufacture, supply and installation of timber signage across Scotland’s National Nature Reserves (NNRs). The framework will support a rolling programme of signage replacement and new installations, including bilingual English/Gaelic content, with flexible call-off arrangements over a four-year period. As part of the development process for the procurement approach, NatureScot is seeking views and information from the marketplace in connection with the areas set out in this Prior Information Notice (PIN). Lot 1: NatureScot manages 29 National Nature Reserves across Scotland, encompassing a wide range of landscapes from remote mountain environments to coastal woodlands and lochs. To support visitor engagement and site management, NatureScot is seeking to establish a single-supplier framework agreement for the manufacture, supply and installation of high-quality timber signage and associated graphic panels. The framework will cover: - Manufacture of bespoke timber signs using sustainably sourced Douglas Fir; - Preparation of English and bilingual English/Gaelic CAD drawings based on NatureScot templates; - Liaising with graphic designers for panel artwork ensuring artwork is provided in the correct specification for production; - Supply of fixings and hardware; - Delivery to NNRs, offices or other agreed locations; - Installation and ground restoration where required; and - Removal and recycling of old signage. NatureScot does not require that all elements of the requirement be delivered directly by the appointed supplier from within their own organisation. Subcontracting or use of third-party providers (e.g. for manufacture, delivery or installation) is permitted, provided that the appointed supplier retains full responsibility for managing all subcontracted elements and ensuring that all requirements are delivered to the standards set out in the framework agreement. The framework is intended to run for four years (on a 2 + 1 + 1 basis), with call-off orders placed as required. Estimated volumes are between 50–100 signs across 3-5 NNRs per year, with delivery and installation agreed on a case-by-case basis. The framework is intended to provide flexibility in response to changing demand and site priorities, and to enable streamlined interaction with the appointed supplier. This Prior Information Notice (PIN) is issued by NatureScot to inform the market of a potential forthcoming procurement opportunity and to initiate early engagement with potential suppliers. The purpose of this market engagement is to: - Assess supplier interest in participating in a single-supplier framework; - Understand supplier capacity and capability to deliver the required services across Scotland; - Identify any delivery challenges, particularly in remote or island locations; - Explore opportunities for innovation, sustainability; and - Inform the final scope, structure, and commercial model of the framework agreement. Depending on the feedback received through this PIN process, NatureScot may consider alternative approaches (including a multi-lot structure based on geographic regions or service components) if this is deemed necessary to ensure effective delivery and market accessibility. To have your feedback considered, please complete the questionnaire by following this link - https://www.cognitoforms.com/ScotlandExcel1/PP-1417PINQuestionnaire. NatureScot has included two additional documents with this Prior Information Notice (PIN) for suppliers to review: the ‘NNR Signs Guide (for PIN)’ and the ‘NNR Example CAD Master Schedule (for PIN)’. These documents are provided for information purposes only, to assist suppliers in assessing their capability and capacity to meet the contract requirements. Additional information: NatureScot have included a questionnaire (which can be found here - https://www.cognitoforms.com/ScotlandExcel1/PP-1417PINQuestionnaire) for interested suppliers and may invite further dialogue to explore delivery models and gather feedback. Participation in this PIN process will not be evaluated for award purposes but will help shape the final procurement strategy.