BENCHMARKING EXERCISE

BENCHMARKING EXERCISE - nicotine replacement products (NRT).

The Council is inviting companies to participate in a benchmarking exercise.
The London Borough of Tower Hamlets and a number of other London councils are considering the possibility to undertake a joint procurement exercise to establish a contract framework for the supply of specific nicotine replacement products (NRT).

The framework contract would provide NRT products to the smoking cessation service providers delivering services under contract to the councils. These service providers may include community pharmacy, GP practices, voluntary sector providers and specialist stop smoking services.

It is also being considered the possibility to include in the framework contract the provision of non-prescription nicotine replacement products direct to local residents as part of a centralised internet service and this may constitute an additional outlet of NRT supplied either directly via post to residents or via a centralised service.

The current list of NRT products that would be considered for inclusion on the framework have been listed in the attachment provided. The list includes expected volumes for the London Borough of Tower Hamlets only however, providers are requested to indicate a potential price for products with volume discount in the event that additional boroughs entered joined the framework.

This is NOT a tender exercise so your prices are NOT a proposal to enter into a contract. This is only a benchmarking exercise that will help will help the authority to assess whether:

? There are sufficient interest in the market to participate in a future tender exercise;
? A tender exercise would bring any cost benefits for the authorities.

Any information provided will be kept in the strictest confidence, any cost submitted will not be held for future tenders.

The submission deadline is noon 22nd February 2017.