---
title: "CO0298 Communications and Marketing Framework 2"
ocid: "ocds-h6vhtk-040d6b"
canonical_url: "https://d3tenders.com/contract/?ocid=ocds-h6vhtk-040d6b"
markdown_url: "https://d3tenders.com/contract/ocds-h6vhtk-040d6b.md"
json_url: "https://d3tenders.com/contract/ocds-h6vhtk-040d6b.json"
source: "Find A Tender Service"
current_stage: "Award"
buyer: "Essex County Council"
published: "2024-10-17"
---

# CO0298 Communications and Marketing Framework 2

Buyer: Essex County Council  
Current stage: Award  
OCID: ocds-h6vhtk-040d6b

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## Summary

Essex County Council has completed the procurement process for the "CO0298 Communications and Marketing Framework 2," covering the advertising and marketing services industry. The framework, active with contracts awarded as of 20th September 2024, is segmented into several lots—ranging from digital/web design to videography and media services. This framework is situated in the UKH3 region (East of England) and was executed under the restricted procedure method. The entire framework is set for a maximum duration of 4 years, with an initial term of 2 years and possible extensions up to 2 additional years. The total estimated value of the framework is £6.2 million. Key suppliers include Touch Graphic Design Ltd, Balfour Wong, Four Agency Worldwide Ltd, and others, who will provide various communications and marketing services as outlined in the individual lots. Although Lot 6 was not awarded due to unmet minimum requirements, the other lots have active contracts with specific suppliers.

The "CO0298 Communications and Marketing Framework 2" offers significant growth opportunities for businesses, particularly SMEs, with competencies in digital/web design, brand identity, public relations, photography, and other related fields. The framework is ideal for businesses capable of delivering high-quality, innovative solutions adhering to strict accessibility and brand guidelines. Suppliers will not only gain exposure but also establish long-term relationships with Essex County Council, potentially leading to numerous ad-hoc projects and regular collaborations. The structured nature of the framework ensures steady work for suppliers, positioning them as integral support for the council's communications and marketing efforts, thus facilitating substantial business growth and industry reputation.

## Notice

Essex County Council have established a Framework Agreement for Communications and Marketing Services. The Framework has an initial two year term with options to extend in any number of periods not exceeding an extension period of 2 years in total. The maximum duration of the Framework will not exceed 4 years. Suppliers appointed to the Framework will deliver services to the communications and marketing team as well as other officers across ECC who may have ad-hoc requirements. The Framework is divided into nine Lots including: Lot 1A: Design - Digital/Web Design: working to Web Content Accessibility Guidance (WCAG) 2.2 level AA guidelines Lot 1B: Design - Branding: Identity and Guidelines Lot 1C: Design - Publications Lot 1D: Design - Generic materials Lot 1E: Design - Campaign: concept and application Lot 2: PR Services Lot 3: Photography Lot 4: Videography Lot 5: Media Services

### Lot Information

Design (including digital design)

Suppliers must be skilled and experienced in accessible design, in line with Public Sector Bodies Accessibility Regulations 2018. Suppliers shall be able to provide a full design service, including digital design capabilities across all types of projects. This may include but is not limited to: * creative direction and management, in line with the brief * developing design concepts, suitable across all media channels * executing design solutions, working to existing brand guidance and suitable across all media channels * developing/producing multi-channel identity/style guides * typesetting, proofing and pagination * liaison with printers/print managers * artworking of design jobs

PR Services

Suppliers shall be able to provide a full PR service across a variety of projects. This may include but is not limited to: * Development and implementation of PR strategies, plans and tactics across a wide range of projects and campaigns. Either as a stand alone piece or in conjunction with other agencies (e.g. media buying) delivering requirements for large scale campaigns * Message development and definition * Content creation and distribution strategy (including seeding, syndication, blogging, social networks, video sharing, forums) * Stakeholder mapping and engagement * Reputation and crisis communications management * Workshop planning * Commission and deliver research that can extend into PR opportunities: conferences, awards, accreditations, speaking opportunities * Media/Journalist management, particularly with specialist trade media * PR events/stunts * Media training of key spokespeople

Options: The Framework has the option to extend in any number of periods not exceeding an extension period of 2 years in total, beyond the initial two year term. The maximum duration of the Framework will not exceed 4 years.

Renewal: The Framework will have the option to extend in any number of periods not exceeding an extension period of 2 years in total, beyond the initial two year term. The maximum duration of the Framework will not exceed 4 years.

Photography

Suppliers shall be required to provide photography services to ECC for promotional and marketing purposes both internally and externally including, where appropriate, storyboarding, venue/actor/models sourcing, shooting and editing. This will include but not limited to: * offering strategic advice and guidance on best approaches; * creation of storyboards; * sourcing of venues, locations, props and actors/subjects/models; * delivering the shoot; * editing of photos; * safe storage and sharing of images and data, * adhering to GDPR guidelines.

Options: The Framework has the option to extend in any number of periods not exceeding an extension period of 2 years in total, beyond the initial two year term. The maximum duration of the Framework will not exceed 4 years.

Renewal: The Framework will have the option to extend in any number of periods not exceeding an extension period of 2 years in total, beyond the initial two year term. The maximum duration of the Framework will not exceed 4 years.

Videography

The following (non-exhaustive) list provides the scope of the Videography LOT that suppliers may be expected to supply all or some of, on behalf of ECC: * Film production including pre- and post-production stages, storyboarding, venue/actor sourcing, * Webinars and webcasting * Live video * Animation. Suppliers will be expected to manage all aspects of video production required including provision of a rationale to support recommended approach, suggestions on implementation including channels for dissemination and evaluation of effectiveness to demonstrate achievement of objectives

Options: The Framework has the option to extend in any number of periods not exceeding an extension period of 2 years in total, beyond the initial two year term. The maximum duration of the Framework will not exceed 4 years.

Renewal: The Framework will have the option to extend in any number of periods not exceeding an extension period of 2 years in total, beyond the initial two year term. The maximum duration of the Framework will not exceed 4 years.

Media Services

Suppliers will be required to plan, cost and buy media advertising, including (but not limited to): * Digital - display, social, paid search and audio * Outdoor and ambient media * Radio * Print * Addressable TV and VOD * Media partnerships

Options: The Framework has the option to extend in any number of periods not exceeding an extension period of 2 years in total, beyond the initial two year term. The maximum duration of the Framework will not exceed 4 years.

Renewal: The Framework will have the option to extend in any number of periods not exceeding an extension period of 2 years in total, beyond the initial two year term. The maximum duration of the Framework will not exceed 4 years.

Full Service

Suppliers will be required to deliver a full suite of communications and marketing services where programmes of work require a range of support. Services shall include (but not be limited to): * Development of strategy in line with requirements of brief * Design (including digital design) * PR Services * Photography * Videography * Media Services * Account management from project inception to completion * Optimisation, reporting, evaluation and measurement

Options: The Framework will have the option to extend in any number of periods not exceeding an extension period of 2 years in total, beyond the initial two year term. The maximum duration of the Framework will not exceed 4 years.

Renewal: The Framework will have the option to extend in any number of periods not exceeding an extension period of 2 years in total, beyond the initial two year term. The maximum duration of the Framework will not exceed 4 years.

Design - Digital/Web Design: working to Web Content Accessibility Guidance (WCAG) 2.2 level AA guidelines

Suppliers must be skilled and experienced in accessible design, in line with Public Sector Bodies Accessibility Regulations 2018. Requirements in this lot will involve but are not limited to: * the creation and design of digital assets for website and mobile app interfaces, email templates and other digital materials, ensuring a seamless and engaging user experience. * employing user-centred design principles to create interfaces that are intuitive and visually pleasing, optimizing the user experience. * the development of designs that are responsive and adapt to various screen sizes and devices. * creation of interactive elements and animations to enhance the user experience and engagement. * selection of fonts and colour palettes to reinforce the brand identity and improve readability. * use and maintenance of expertise in industry-standard design and prototyping software, such as Adobe XD, Sketch, Figma, and relevant tools. * creation of wireframes, prototypes, and mock ups to illustrate design concepts and interactions. * collaboration with cross-functional teams, including developers and product managers, to bring design concepts to life. Suppliers must have an understanding of user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design principles and best practices. Ensures all digital designs adhere to accessibility standards and brand guidelines. Creates accessible pdfs and uses Acrobat accessibility checker, colour contrast checker and other accessibility tools to ensure compliance with standards

Options: The Framework has the option to extend in any number of periods not exceeding an extension period of 2 years in total, beyond the initial two year term. The maximum duration of the Framework will not exceed 4 years.

Renewal: The Framework will have the option to extend in any number of periods not exceeding an extension period of 2 years in total, beyond the initial two year term. The maximum duration of the Framework will not exceed 4 years.

Design - Branding: Identity and Guidelines

Requirements in this lot will involve but are not limited to: * development of brand identity, brand architecture including guidelines, logo, core message. Involves development of brand propositions, visual elements and associated multi-channel style guides for services, programmes and partnerships, including but not limited to creation of identity, colour palette, typography, look and feel. * desk or secondary research, or interrogation of research provided, to ensure solutions are in line with the requirements of the brief. * Ensures all digital designs adhere to accessibility standards and brand guidelines. Creates accessible pdfs and uses Acrobat accessibility checker, colour contrast checker and other accessibility tools to ensure compliance with standards.

Options: The Framework has the option to extend in any number of periods not exceeding an extension period of 2 years in total, beyond the initial two year term. The maximum duration of the Framework will not exceed 4 years.

Renewal: The Framework will have the option to extend in any number of periods not exceeding an extension period of 2 years in total, beyond the initial two year term. The maximum duration of the Framework will not exceed 4 years.

Design - Publications

Requirements in this lot will involve but are not limited to: * layout of publications, including but not limited to strategy and policy documents and information packs, which will be made available in print or online. * typesetting and pagination of designed documents. * ensuring all digital designs adhere to accessibility standards and brand guidelines. Creates accessibe pdfs and uses Acrobat accessibility checker, colour contrast checker and other accessibility tools to ensure compliance with standards.

Options: The Framework has the option to extend in any number of periods not exceeding an extension period of 2 years in total, beyond the initial two year term. The maximum duration of the Framework will not exceed 4 years

Renewal: The Framework will have the option to extend in any number of periods not exceeding an extension period of 2 years in total, beyond the initial two year term. The maximum duration of the Framework will not exceed 4 years.

Design - Generic materials

Requirements in this lot will involve but are not limited to: * supply of graphic design and art working services for all media channels and formats including but not limited to posters, leaflets, social media assets, stands and event materials. * ensuring all digital designs adhere to accessibility standards and brand guidelines. Creates accessible pdfs and uses Acrobat accessibility checker, colour contrast checker and other accessibility tools to ensure compliance with standards.

Options: The Framework has the option to extend in any number of periods not exceeding an extension period of 2 years in total, beyond the initial two year term. The maximum duration of the Framework will not exceed 4 years.

Renewal: The Framework will have the option to extend in any number of periods not exceeding an extension period of 2 years in total, beyond the initial two year term. The maximum duration of the Framework will not exceed 4 years.

Design - Campaign: concept and application

Requirements in this lot will involve but are not limited to: * The development of creative propositions, inclusive of relevant desk and secondary research to inform development. * Production of concepts and communications propositions across all channel options, ideally developing and testing new communications ideas prior to production. * Development of design concepts includes origination of design approaches which are suitable for the media specified. This would require delivery of a number of creative approaches for consideration by the client, in line with the brief referenced above. * Creative development packaged for delivery or archive, ensuring accessibility standards are adhered to. * Development of ideas and core messages including development of a campaign style guide to ensure consistency of application. * Application of a chosen concept to required media assets. * Ensures all digital designs adhere to accessibility standards and brand guidelines. Creates accessible pdfs and uses Acrobat accessibility checker, colour contrast checker and other accessibility tools to ensure compliance with standards.

Options: The Framework has the option to extend in any number of periods not exceeding an extension period of 2 years in total, beyond the initial two year term. The maximum duration of the Framework will not exceed 4 years.

Renewal: The Framework will have the option to extend in any number of periods not exceeding an extension period of 2 years in total, beyond the initial two year term. The maximum duration of the Framework will not exceed 4 years.

## Key Details

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Publication source | Find A Tender Service |
| Latest notice | https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/033638-2024 |
| Notice type | Planning Notice |
| Procurement type | Framework |
| Procurement category | Services |
| Procurement method | Selective |
| Procurement method details | Restricted procedure |
| Tender suitability | Not specified |
| Awardee scale | Large, SME |
| All stages | Planning, Tender, Award |

## Dates

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Publication date | 17 Oct 2024 |
| Submission deadline | 24 Apr 2024 |
| Future notice date | 3 Jan 2024 |
| Award date | 20 Sep 2024 |
| Contract period | Not specified |
| Recurrence | Not specified |

## Values

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Tender value | £6,200,000 |
| Lots value | Not specified |
| Awards value | Not specified |
| Contracts value | £4,969,440 |

## Status

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Tender status | Complete |
| Lots status | Active, Cancelled, Planned |
| Awards status | Active |
| Contracts status | Active |

## Buyer

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Main buyer | Essex County Council |
| Locality | CHELMSFORD |
| Postcode area | Chelmsford |
| Postcode | CM1 1QH |
| Country | England |
| ITL 1 | TLH East (England) |
| ITL 2 | TLH3 Essex |
| ITL 3 | TLH36 Heart of Essex |
| Local authority | Chelmsford |
| Electoral ward | Moulsham and Central |
| Westminster constituency | Chelmsford |
| Delivery location | TLH3 Essex |

## Supplier

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Number of suppliers | 32 |
| Supplier names | Balfour Wong; Balfour Wong Ltd; Big Wave PR Limited; Big Wave PR Ltd; Blue Tiger Marketing Ltd; Borne Agency Ltd; By Experience Ltd; Deadline Communications Ltd; ETC Communications Ltd; Four Agency Worldwide Limited; Four Agency Worldwide Ltd; Genesis PR Limited; Jellyfielder Studios Ltd; Main Media Ltd; Marketing Elect Ltd; Mountain Way Pictures Limited; Nomensa Ltd; North of England Commissioning Support; Orange PR and Marketing Limited; Pier Marketing Limited; Ranch Creative Ltd; Redmoor Health Ltd; Redmoor Health Solutions; Room for Design; Rubber Duckiee; Silk Pearce Limited; Silk Pearce Ltd; Strive Agency Ltd; The Mobius Agency Ltd; Touch Graphic Design Ltd; Touch Graphic Design Ltd T/A Touch Design; Whatever Design Ltd |

## CPV Codes

### Divisions

- 79 - Business services: law, marketing, consulting, recruitment, printing and security
- 92 - Recreational, cultural and sporting services

### Codes

- 79000000 - Business services: law, marketing, consulting, recruitment, printing and security
- 79340000 - Advertising and marketing services
- 79415200 - Design consultancy services
- 79416000 - Public relations services
- 79822500 - Graphic design services
- 79960000 - Photographic and ancillary services
- 92000000 - Recreational, cultural and sporting services
- 92100000 - Motion picture and video services

## Release History

- 17 Oct 2024 at 16:27 - Award - Award Notice - https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/033638-2024
- 22 Mar 2024 at 13:59 - Tender - Tender Notice - https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/009398-2024
- 19 Oct 2023 at 14:47 - Planning - Planning Notice - https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/030915-2023

## Notice URLs

- https://procontract.due-north.com
- https://www.essex.gov.uk/

## Provenance

This Markdown file is an alternate public rendering of the D3 Tenders contract record. The canonical page is https://d3tenders.com/contract/?ocid=ocds-h6vhtk-040d6b. The underlying structured data is available as OCDS JSON at https://d3tenders.com/contract/ocds-h6vhtk-040d6b.json.