A standstill period is the defined pause between announcing an intended contract award and entering into the contract, where the applicable procurement rules require one.
Detailed explanation
The pause gives participating suppliers time to understand the award decision, review the information provided and decide whether they need clarification, legal advice or another formal step before the contract is signed. It protects the integrity of the process by preventing immediate contract execution in circumstances where a standstill applies.
Under the Procurement Act 2023 regime, suppliers should read the contract award notice and associated assessment information carefully because the applicable dates, exceptions and procedural steps may differ from legacy practice. Procurements commenced under earlier legislation can remain subject to transitional rules.
A disappointed bidder should act calmly and quickly. Compare the published criteria with the assessment summary, identify any factual or procedural concern, preserve portal records and avoid speculative accusations. Commercial learning should continue even where no challenge is contemplated.
Why it matters
It gives suppliers time to understand the decision and consider whether to seek further information or challenge.
How buyers use it
The buyer uses the standstill period to provide transparency and allow suppliers a defined opportunity to consider the intended award before the contract is entered into.
What suppliers should do
- Record the exact start and end dates immediately.
- Review the assessment summary against the published criteria.
- Separate genuine process concerns from ordinary disagreement with scoring.
- Request advice promptly where a material issue may exist.
- Capture lessons for future bids even where no further action is taken.
Where it fits in the process
- 1Intended award announced
- 2Standstill begins
- 3Supplier reviews decision
- 4Questions or advice considered
- 5Contract entered into after applicable period
Frequently asked questions
Does every procurement have a standstill period?
No. Applicability and exceptions depend on the procurement and legal regime. Check the notice and procurement documents.
Can the buyer sign during standstill?
Where a mandatory standstill applies, the contract should not be entered into until the applicable period has ended.
What should we review first?
The award notice, assessment summary, published criteria, score breakdown and any moderation or clarification record available to you.
Should we challenge every disappointing result?
No. Focus on material factual, procedural or legal concerns and obtain appropriate advice where needed.
Can standstill feedback improve future bids?
Yes. Use it to identify evidence gaps, weak answer structure, pricing issues and misunderstandings of the criteria.
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