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Only 34% of providers offer trust services, while 70% focus on verification. Here's your opportunity gap! The sector needs more trusted service providers - time to pivot?

💡 Good to Know

• Get AI-ready in Norwich: Join Google's AI lead, tech founders, and local innovators for an afternoon of practical insights and networking.

• Join former Shadow Health Minister and healthcare innovators for an exclusive roundtable on transforming mental health through tech.

• Free live webinar with CISA fellow Chris Hughes on tackling modern supply chain vulnerabilities - perfect for security leaders.

🔍 Today’s Focus:

• Good to Know: AI insights and networking opportunities in Norwich.

• Daily Spend Watch: £6.44B in public sector contracts.

• Opportunity Picks: £400M Building Materials Framework with a digital-first approach.

• News: Cleaning up Britain’s streets with a Deposit Return Scheme.

• Tech: Discover new AI tools for B2B leads, social media, and enhanced reasoning.

Let’s dive into the details👇

DAILY SPEND WATCH

📊 Public Sector Spending Analysis: Contracts Finder Report January 20-24, 2025

Market Analysis

Total awarded: £6.44B across 1173 contracts.

Healthcare leads at 31%, followed by Construction (28%) and IT (18%). Strong regional focus in South East (34%) and London (24%). SME participation at 32.5%. 

Key trends: digital integration, sustainable solutions, and bundled services. Notable shift toward social value requirements (45% of contracts) and carbon reduction targets. Healthcare and infrastructure show the highest contract values, suggesting prime opportunities for strategic partnerships.

OPPORTUNITY PICKS

🏗️ UK Building Materials Framework: £400M Multi-Lot Supply Opportunity

Opportunity Overview

• Framework Value: £400M over 48 months

• Contracting Authority: STAR Procurement via Trafford Council

• Submission Deadline: March 7, 2025, 12:00

• Framework Duration: May 2025 - April 2029

💡 Winning Strategies: Focus on Lot 8 Digital Solutions

Lot 8 offers unique positioning through digital inventory management rather than traditional supplies. Cloud integration with public systems provides seamless data flow while IoT asset tracking enables real-time visibility across operations. Custom reporting capabilities address diverse public sector needs, complemented by predictive analytics for proactive stock management. Mobile field solutions ensure accessibility and efficiency for frontline workers.

This digital-first approach aligns with public sector modernization goals while enabling cross-lot partnerships through enhanced materials management capabilities. By leading with technology, suppliers can differentiate themselves in a traditionally product-focused market.

NEWS 

🗑️ Cash for Trash – Cleaning Up Britain’s Streets!

The UK is taking a big leap toward tackling waste with a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) for bottles and cans starting in October 2027. Consumers will get cash back for recycling. Businesses should start planning DRS infrastructure, engage customers with eco-friendly initiatives to boost participation and collaborate with partners to ensure a seamless return process.

📢 UK Investment Reforms Unveiled

The government is rolling out new reforms to boost regional growth, focusing on green energy, technology, and manufacturing. Tailored partnerships and strategic support will empower local leaders to drive economic expansion across the UK. Now is the time to align your business with these initiatives. Engage with local leaders to access tailored support and position your company for growth in these thriving sectors.

🚨 Google Tackles Fake Reviews with CMA Agreement

Google is cracking down on fake reviews after a CMA investigation. Businesses using fake reviews face penalties like public warnings, review bans, and deleted ratings. Consumers will see alerts on flagged profiles, and reporting fake reviews will be easier. With £23B of UK spending influenced by reviews annually, these changes boost trust and level the playing field for honest businesses.

TECHNOLOGY

🔭 Telescope: AI-powered B2B lead finder using natural language

📱 Wepost: AI-powered social media manager for automated content creation 

🧠 Gemini 2.0 Flash Thinking Experimental: AI model with enhanced reasoning, agent capabilities

TIP OF THE DAY

Incorporate Social Value Criteria

1. Define Clear Metrics: Establish specific criteria to evaluate the social impact of suppliers during the procurement process.

2. Assess Community Benefits: Include local employment opportunities and community engagement in supplier evaluations.

3. Regularly Review Criteria: Update social value metrics to reflect evolving community needs and priorities.

Quick Question!

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