Hey there👋

Did you know the UK digital sector pumped £158.3 billion into the economy last year? With big changes underway, the new pro-competition regime is set to reshape how digital markets operate. From the Digital Markets Unit to mandatory merger reporting, there’s a lot to unpack for businesses like yours.

Curious about how these changes might impact your strategy? 

Here’s an overview of recent developments:

• Follow the Money: £216M in public sector contracts—healthcare and digital transformation lead the charge.

• Opportunity Picks: Don’t miss a £2B workforce opportunity with HealthTrust Europe.

• Sustainability in Action: Cleaner ports, flood defences, and salt marsh restoration projects driving green procurement.

• Tech Spotlight: AI-driven tools like Venngage and GitLaw transform workflows.

Let’s dive into the details👇

🎧 No time to read? I get it—life’s busy. That’s why I’ve added an audio version of the newsletter just for you. Click play, and let me keep you updated while you tackle your day!

DAILY SPEND WATCH

🎯 Follow the Money: £216M in Public Sector Contracts

Healthcare dominates (£92M NHS contract), while tech transformation stays strong with DWP's £10.96M cloud investment 🏥

London/SE leads with 45% of value, but watch the West Midlands' rising influence 📈

Framework agreements (35%) and sustainability initiatives show where smart money's flowing 🌱

Want in? Focus on healthcare tech, digital transformation, and green projects - that's where the opportunities are

OPPORTUNITY PICKS

🌟£2B Workforce Opportunity: Total Workforce Solutions III 

Key Opportunity Overview

• Buyer: HealthTrust Europe LLP (HTE)

• Value: £2,000,000,000

• Scope: Workforce services, including managed bank, agency, and efficiency solutions.

• Contract Period: 2025-2029 (4 years).

• SME Friendly: Yes, VCSE suitability: No.

• Closing Date: 17 January 2025, 1 PM.

💡 One Strategy That Could Set You Apart

Align your bid with the buyer's needs by conducting a gap analysis to match your strengths and partnerships to the requirements of each lot. Use this insight to emphasize tech-driven solutions like AI and automation that optimize workforce demand and improve efficiency. By addressing gaps and showcasing innovation, you position yourself as a strategic partner delivering tailored, value-driven results.

NEWS

🚀 ASEAN-UK: Engineering Biology in Action

🌿 What Is Engineering Biology?
It’s a game-changer! Think mRNA vaccines and sustainable farming tech. This emerging field scales biology-derived products to transform industries and boost sustainability.

Building Bridges
Workshops unite experts to tackle global challenges like health and climate change. Partnerships = progress!

The Goal
Advance innovation, share knowledge, and build a sustainable future.

Get Involved
Email [email protected] to learn more or start a partnership today!

🌍 UK Joins CPTPP

On 15 December 2024, the UK officially joins the CPTPP, its first free trade agreement with Malaysia, boosting market access and trade opportunities.

🚀 Key Highlights

• Combined CPTPP GDP grows to £12 trillion.

• Duty-free exports for key sectors like electronics and machinery.

• Greater access to government procurement markets.

Ready to grow?
Start planning now to leverage CPTPP benefits and take your business global!

⚡ Cleaner Ports in Portsmouth

A new cable system at Portsmouth Port will connect vessels to land-based power, cutting emissions while docked.

Flood Defence in Kent
Repairs at Ridham Dock strengthen flood defences and safeguard vital aggregate operations.

Restoring Suffolk Saltmarsh
Dredging in Suffolk recharges saltmarsh habitats, enhancing ecosystems with sustainable mudflat deposits.

Explore Marine Licences
Want to apply? Visit the Marine Management Organisation to learn more.

TECHNOLOGY

📊 Venngage: AI-powered infographic maker with travel-wrapped feature

🤖 OpenAI: Pro tier unlocks o1's enhanced thinking capabilities

⚖️ GitLaw: Free legal contract marketplace powered by AI

TIP OF THE DAY

🌱 Curious about sustainable procurement trends?

1. Adopt Circular Economy Principles: Shift from a linear to a circular model—think recycling and reusing!

2. Prioritize Green Certifications: Look for suppliers with eco-friendly certifications; it adds credibility!

3. Set Sustainability Goals: Establish clear targets for reducing carbon footprints in procurement processes.

Quick Question!

We’d love to know how today’s Focus resonated with you! Your feedback helps us make each issue even better. 😊