---
title: "991_26 Supply of Early Years and Curriculum Product Ranges"
ocid: "ocds-h6vhtk-050a1a"
canonical_url: "https://d3tenders.com/contract/?ocid=ocds-h6vhtk-050a1a"
markdown_url: "https://d3tenders.com/contract/ocds-h6vhtk-050a1a.md"
json_url: "https://d3tenders.com/contract/ocds-h6vhtk-050a1a.json"
source: "Find A Tender Service"
current_stage: "Award"
buyer: "LEICESTERSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL, TRADING AS ESPO"
published: "2026-04-24"
---

# 991_26 Supply of Early Years and Curriculum Product Ranges

Buyer: LEICESTERSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL, TRADING AS ESPO  
Current stage: Award  
OCID: ocds-h6vhtk-050a1a

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## Summary

The procurement process for the supply of early years and curriculum product ranges, initiated by Leicestershire County Council, trading as ESPO, has reached the award stage as of 26th April 2026, with contracts signed on 30th March 2026. This framework agreement covers various lots, including curriculum product ranges and early learning product ranges, with a total estimated value of up to £24,000,000. The products, categorised under educational goods, toys, printed books, and more, will be delivered either to ESPO's distribution centre in Leicester, UK, or directly to customer premises. The open procedure was followed in line with the UK Public Authority guidelines, allowing for substantial participation from both SMEs and large organisations. Extensions are possible post-2027, contingent on market needs and performance evaluations.

This tender presents significant business growth opportunities for suppliers specialising in educational equipment, printed books, toys, and related products. SMEs across the UK, as well as international suppliers with expertise in the mentioned categories, would find this framework beneficial for expanding their reach within the education sector. Companies with a robust supply chain that can meet the delivery requirements to Leicester or directly to customers across the UK are well-positioned to compete. Moreover, the option for call-offs without or with competition provides flexibility for suppliers to secure business based on ESPO's specific requirements throughout the framework period.

## Notice

ESPO catalogue framework encompassing the supply of early learning and curriculum product ranges, with goods to be delivered either to ESPO's distribution centre, Leicester, or for direct delivery to ESPO customer premises. The Framework is divided into 9 lots.

### Lot Information

Supply of Curriculum Product Ranges

Supply of curriculum product ranges which includes the following subject areas: Special Educational Needs English Modern Foreign Languages Maths Science Design & Technology Humanities Computing For delivery to the ESPO distribution centre, Leicester, and for delivery direct to individual customer premises. For further details, please refer to the tender documents.

Options: ESPO reserves the right to add or remove to the products listed within the Pricing Schedule throughout the lifetime of the Framework so long as they are in line with the Framework scope.

Renewal: Once the initial period of the contract has ended (i.e., 31 March 2027), there is an option to extend the framework by up to a further 36 months. This is dependent on ESPO, ESPO Customers, and market needs, as well as the performance of sales. Total estimated values captured in this notice include the option to extend the framework as noted above.

Supply of Early Learning Product Ranges

Supply of early learning product ranges which includes: Sensory products Construction Games & Puzzles Imaginative Play Drama & Role Play Sand, Water & Messy Play Physical Development: Gross Motor Skills Physical Development: Fine Motor Skills Early Music Loose Parts Play Personal, Social and Emotional Development (PSED) For delivery to the ESPO distribution centre, Leicester, and for delivery direct to individual customer premises. For further details, please refer to the tender documents.

Options: ESPO reserves the right to add or remove to the products listed within the Pricing Schedule throughout the lifetime of the Framework so long as they are in line with the Framework scope.

Renewal: Once the initial period of the contract has ended (i.e., 31 March 2027), there is an option to extend the framework by up to a further 36 months. This is dependent on ESPO, ESPO Customers, and market needs, as well as the performance of sales. Total estimated values captured in this notice include the option to extend the framework as noted above.

Baby and Toddler Essential Resources

Supply of essential baby and Toddler related goods for delivery to the ESPO distribution centre, Leicester, and for delivery direct to individual customer premises. For further details, please refer to the tender documents.

Options: ESPO reserves the right to add or remove to the products listed within the Pricing Schedule throughout the lifetime of the Framework so long as they are in line with the Framework scope.

Renewal: Once the initial period of the contract has ended (i.e., 31 March 2027), there is an option to extend the framework by up to a further 36 months. This is dependent on ESPO, ESPO Customers, and market needs, as well as the performance of sales. Total estimated values captured in this notice include the option to extend the framework as noted above.

Outdoor Early Years Furniture and Support Products

Supply of outdoor early years furniture and support products, which includes: Role and Imaginative Play Furniture, Dens and Houses, Messy, Discovery, Sand and Water and Creative play Building Blocks and Construction Products Outdoor Teaching and Learning Spaces and Places Outdoor Storage: Early Years For delivery direct to individual customer premises. For further details, please refer to the tender documents.

Options: ESPO reserves the right to add or remove to the products listed within the Pricing Schedule throughout the lifetime of the Framework so long as they are in line with the Framework scope.

Renewal: Once the initial period of the contract has ended (i.e., 31 March 2027), there is an option to extend the framework by up to a further 36 months. This is dependent on ESPO, ESPO Customers, and market needs, as well as the performance of sales. Total estimated values captured in this notice include the option to extend the framework as noted above.

Classroom Reward Products

Supply of classroom reward products for delivery to the ESPO distribution centre, Leicester. For further details, please refer to the tender documents.

Options: ESPO reserves the right to add or remove to the products listed within the Pricing Schedule throughout the lifetime of the Framework so long as they are in line with the Framework scope.

Renewal: Once the initial period of the contract has ended (i.e., 31 March 2027), there is an option to extend the framework by up to a further 36 months. This is dependent on ESPO, ESPO Customers, and market needs, as well as the performance of sales. Total estimated values captured in this notice include the option to extend the framework as noted above.

Bikes, Trikes and Ride On Vehicles

Supply of bikes, trikes and ride on vehicles suitable for children and for delivery to the ESPO distribution centre, Leicester, and for delivery direct to individual customer premises. For further details, please refer to the tender documents.

Options: ESPO reserves the right to add or remove to the products listed within the Pricing Schedule throughout the lifetime of the Framework so long as they are in line with the Framework scope.

Renewal: Once the initial period of the contract has ended (i.e., 31 March 2027), there is an option to extend the framework by up to a further 36 months. This is dependent on ESPO, ESPO Customers, and market needs, as well as the performance of sales. Total estimated values captured in this notice include the option to extend the framework as noted above.

Educational Mini White Board Ranges

Supply of educational lap whiteboards and small freestanding whiteboards / easels. For delivery to the ESPO distribution centre, Leicester. For further details, please refer to the tender documents.

Options: ESPO reserves the right to add or remove to the products listed within the Pricing Schedule throughout the lifetime of the Framework so long as they are in line with the Framework scope.

Renewal: Once the initial period of the contract has ended (i.e., 31 March 2027), there is an option to extend the framework by up to a further 36 months. This is dependent on ESPO, ESPO Customers, and market needs, as well as the performance of sales. Total estimated values captured in this notice include the option to extend the framework as noted above.

General Supplementary Curriculum Resources

Supply of supplementary curriculum resources for delivery to the ESPO distribution centre, Leicester, and for delivery direct to individual customer premises. For further details, please refer to the tender documents.

Options: ESPO reserves the right to add or remove to the products listed within the Pricing Schedule throughout the lifetime of the Framework so long as they are in line with the Framework scope.

Renewal: Once the initial period of the contract has ended (i.e., 31 March 2027), there is an option to extend the framework by up to a further 36 months. This is dependent on ESPO, ESPO Customers, and market needs, as well as the performance of sales. Total estimated values captured in this notice include the option to extend the framework as noted above.

Children's Aprons and Outdoor Clothing

Supply of children's aprons and outdoor clothing for delivery to the ESPO distribution centre, Leicester, and for delivery direct to individual customer premises. For further details, please refer to the tender documents.

Options: ESPO reserves the right to add or remove to the products listed within the Pricing Schedule throughout the lifetime of the Framework so long as they are in line with the Framework scope.

Renewal: Once the initial period of the contract has ended (i.e., 31 March 2027), there is an option to extend the framework by up to a further 36 months. This is dependent on ESPO, ESPO Customers, and market needs, as well as the performance of sales. Total estimated values captured in this notice include the option to extend the framework as noted above.

### Planning Information

The purpose of the Preliminary market engagement (PME) is to cover a range of topics designed to best explore our requirements in a possible future procurement. These topics may include:
1. develop ESPO's requirements and approach to the procurement
2. help better identify suitable suppliers in the market and their supply chains
3. understand products/service offerings from suppliers and the marketplace in general
Engagement with suppliers is anticipated to be a mix of methods, including Requests for Information (RFI) and meetings (both virtual and/or in-person). Visits to supplier's premises may also be used where deemed to be of particular use.
For the purposes of this Preliminary market engagement (PME), please express your interest as follows:
(a) Go to https://www.eastmidstenders.org/; (b) Register (if not already registered on ProContract); (c) Search for tender opportunity '991_26' (via "View Opportunities" from the EastMidsTenders Portal); d) Express an interest.
Please access the Messages area/section of the eProcurement Portal (ProContract / EastMidsTenders - Messages can be accessed via the Activity dashboard once an Expression of interest has been completed) for any further communications on this preliminary market engagement, including the RFI documentation - optional responses are required by 12/05/2025.
In the case of any questions or clarifications relating to this PME, these should also be submitted to ESPO as a Message on the eProcurement Portal (again once an Expression of interest has been completed).
Notwithstanding the above process, as this procurement exercise is a renewal of an existing ESPO framework, ESPO reserves the right to engage with some, all or none of the incumbent suppliers appointed to the existing framework, alongside any additional suppliers identified following the above expression of interest and/or RFI exercise.
Suppliers should note that this is a preliminary market engagement exercise (and NOT a competitive tender process at this stage). The participation of a supplier in this preliminary market engagement will not constitute any contractual agreement between the respondent and ESPO.
A supplier's participation, or lack of participation, in this preliminary market engagement shall not impact the ability of the supplier to participate in any resulting tender exercise. Suppliers should note that any interest indicated does not constitute a commitment to participate in any future tendering exercise.

## Key Details

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Publication source | Find A Tender Service |
| Latest notice | https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/037555-2026 |
| Notice type | UK7 - Contract Details Notice |
| Procurement type | Framework |
| Procurement category | Goods |
| Procurement method | Open |
| Procurement method details | Open procedure |
| Tender suitability | SME, VCSE |
| Awardee scale | Large, SME |
| All stages | Planning, Tender, Award |

## Dates

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Publication date | 24 Apr 2026 |
| Submission deadline | 12 Dec 2025 |
| Future notice date | 18 Jul 2025 |
| Award date | 12 Mar 2026 |
| Contract period | 31 Mar 2026 - 31 Mar 2027 |
| Recurrence | Not specified |

## Values

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Tender value | £24,000,000 |
| Lots value | £24,000,000 |
| Awards value | £19,000,000 |
| Contracts value | £19,000,000 |

## Status

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Tender status | Complete |
| Lots status | Complete |
| Awards status | Active |
| Contracts status | Active |

## Buyer

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Main buyer | LEICESTERSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL, TRADING AS ESPO |
| Locality | LEICESTER |
| Post town | Leicester |
| Postcode | LE19 1ES |
| Country | England |
| ITL 1 | TLF East Midlands (England) |
| ITL 2 | TLF2 Leicestershire, Rutland and Northamptonshire |
| ITL 3 | TLF22 Leicestershire CC and Rutland |
| Local authority | Blaby |
| Electoral ward | Enderby |
| Westminster constituency | South Leicestershire |
| Delivery location | Not specified |

## Supplier

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Number of suppliers | 74 |
| Supplier names | A.T. LITTLE & SONS LIMITED (T/A BROWNS BOOKS; ACTIVE APPAREL GROUP LIMITED (SPOTTY OTTER BEING PART OF THE THE ACTIVE APPAREL GROUP; AMPLE STAR ENTERPRISES; AUTOPRESS EDUCATION; AXON EDUCATION LTD (T/A WORKING WALLS; BGRP; BIGJIGS TOYS; BISHOP SPORTS & LEISURE; CAVENDISH SPORTS LIMITED (T/A NOYNA GARMENTS; CICADA EDUCATIONAL EQUIPMENT; COLLABORATE & INNOVATE; COMMOTION; COMMUNITY PRODUCTS (UK) LIMITED (T/A COMMUNITY PLAYTHINGS; COORDINATION GROUP PUBLICATIONS; CROSSBOW EDUCATION; DATA HARVEST GROUP; DECATHLON; DRUMS FOR SCHOOLS; EASTPOINT GLOBAL; ED.UK.8 WORLDWIDE; EDUCATIONAL ADVANTAGE; EDX EDUCATION; EVEQUE LEISURE EQUIPMENT; FAMILY PLANNING; FIRST CELTIC TOYS AND LEARNING; FOAMS 4 SPORTS; GAMEZ GALORE; GLOBAL SOLUTIONS FOR CLOTHING (GSC; HALFORDS; K'NEX; LAKESHORE LEARNING MATERIALS; LANKA KADE (UK; LEARN WELL TRADING; LEARNING RESOURCES; LIFETIME EDUCATION; LITTLE CRAFTERS BOXES; LOGGERHEAD PUBLISHING; M.O.E. PRODUCTS LTD (T/A THE MINISTRY OF OUTDOOR EDUCATION; MARNITA LIMITED (T/A HALILIT; MIKE MILLER ASSOCIATES LIMITED (T/A TWOEY; MINILAND; MORLEYS (BICESTER; MUDDY PUDDLES; NET ZERO WORKWEAR; OCTOPUS PUBLISHING GROUP; PAUL NORMAN PLASTICS; PENTAGON SPORT; PLAYLEARN; PLAYMOBIL (U.K.; POLYDRON; PROFILE EDUCATION; RABO TRICYCLES; RED MONKEY PLAY; RHINO SENSORY; RM EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES LTD (T/A TTS; RUNVISUAL (UK) LIMITED (T/A CGE WORLD GLOBES; SEJER NATHAN (ÉDITIONS NATHAN/NATHAN PUBLISHING; SHULPH; SMART KIDS (U.K.; SMART TOYS AND GAMES LTD (T/A WOW TOYS; SPACERIGHT EUROPE; SPORT & PLAYBASE; ST. MAJEWSKI; SUSTAINABLE EDUCATION RESOURCES; TALKING PRODUCTS; TEXET SALES; THE MONOGRAM GROUP; THE PUPPET; THREADBEAR DESIGN; TRODAT (UK; VICTORIA GRANT; WILDGOOSE EDUCATION; WILLOWBROOK (EDUCATION; YELLOW DOOR |

## CPV Codes

### Divisions

- 14 - Mining, basic metals and related products
- 18 - Clothing, footwear, luggage articles and accessories
- 22 - Printed matter and related products
- 30 - Office and computing machinery, equipment and supplies except furniture and software packages
- 34 - Transport equipment and auxiliary products to transportation
- 35 - Security, fire-fighting, police and defence equipment
- 37 - Musical instruments, sport goods, games, toys, handicraft, art materials and accessories
- 39 - Furniture (incl. office furniture), furnishings, domestic appliances (excl. lighting) and cleaning products

### Codes

- 14211000 - Sand
- 18000000 - Clothing, footwear, luggage articles and accessories
- 22110000 - Printed books
- 22114300 - Maps
- 22459100 - Advertising stickers and strips
- 30192153 - Phrase stamps
- 30192800 - Self-adhesive labels
- 30195000 - Boards
- 30199400 - Gummed or adhesive paper
- 34430000 - Bicycles
- 35113430 - Safety vests
- 35113440 - Reflective vests
- 37000000 - Musical instruments, sport goods, games, toys, handicraft, art materials and accessories
- 37520000 - Toys
- 37522000 - Wheeled toys
- 37524000 - Games
- 37529200 - Riding toys
- 37535200 - Playground equipment
- 39142000 - Garden furniture
- 39160000 - School furniture
- 39161000 - Kindergarten furniture
- 39162000 - Educational equipment
- 39162110 - Teaching supplies
- 39298600 - Globes

## Release History

- 24 Apr 2026 at 11:26 - Award - UK7 - Contract Details Notice - https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/037555-2026
- 13 Mar 2026 at 16:52 - Award - UK6 - Contract Award Notice - https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/023209-2026
- 10 Dec 2025 at 11:28 - TenderUpdate - UK4 - Tender Notice - https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/081401-2025
- 10 Nov 2025 at 17:03 - Tender - UK4 - Tender Notice - https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/072562-2025
- 4 Jun 2025 at 15:19 - PlanningUpdate - UK2 - Preliminary Market Engagement Notice - https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/030010-2025
- 30 Apr 2025 at 11:31 - Planning - UK2 - Preliminary Market Engagement Notice - https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/017960-2025

## Documents

- https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/037555-2026
  24th April 2026 - Contract details notice on Find a Tender
- https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/023209-2026
  13th March 2026 - Contract award notice on Find a Tender
- https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/081401-2025
  10th December 2025 - Tender notice on Find a Tender
- https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/072562-2025
  10th November 2025 - Tender notice on Find a Tender
- https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/030010-2025
  4th June 2025 - Preliminary market engagement notice on Find a Tender
- https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/017960-2025
  30th April 2025 - Preliminary market engagement notice on Find a Tender
- https://www.eastmidstenders.org/
  Please refer to the tender documents (see above for further details including summary instructions on how to access these).
- https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-15231
  991_26 Framework Agreement
- https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-15232
  991_26 Framework Agreement
- https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-15233
  991_26 Framework Agreement
- https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-15234
  991_26 Framework Agreement
- https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-15236
  991_26 Framework Agreement
- https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-15237
  991_26 Framework Agreement
- https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-15238
  991_26 Framework Agreement
- https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-15239
  991_26 Framework Agreement
- https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-15240
  991_26 Framework Agreement

## Notice URLs

- https://www.espo.org/
- https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2023/54/contents

## Provenance

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