This Invitation to Offer (ITO) seeks to establish a replacement arrangement for network hardware supply, maintenance, support, and lifecycle management across CITEC's IP-VPN, inter-data centre, and point-to-point optical transport services. The contract is expected to last 5 years with up to three 1-year extension options. The scope includes four parts: network hardware, optical network infrastructure, breakfix replacement services, and other network equipment. Suppliers may tender for one or more parts. Offers must be submitted electronically via VendorPanel by 23 November 2026. A direct OEM relationship is required for parts A, B, and D. Evaluation criteria include capability, quality, cost, and value for money.
Offers must be received by the closing date and time. The closing date is 2pm 12th November 2026, as stated: closing date and time for offers 2pm 12th november 2026.
The contractor will manage warranty and maintenance arrangements associated with hardware requiring replacement or repair, including hardware purchased under the customer contract and hardware covered by existing warranty or maintenance arrangements.
The customer is not evaluating offers on the sole criterion of price. Criteria include capability and relevant experience, ability to meet the requirements, quality, cost and value for money, and contract compliance.
Suppliers must hold current OEM accreditation, authorisation or reseller/partner status, and provide evidence of a direct contractual or commercial relationship with the OEM, as stated: hold current oem accreditation, authorisation or resellerpartner status.
All clarifications or questions related to the invitation to offer must be communicated in writing directly to the customer contact. The closing date for questions is 27th October 2026, as stated: closing date for questions 27th october 2026.
Failure to maintain a direct OEM relationship during the contract period may be considered noncompliance and may impact eligibility, as stated: failure to maintain a direct oem relationship during the contract period may be a considered noncompliance and may impact the suppliers eligibility.