Specialist Science and Contingency Services

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has completed the procurement process for a contract titled "Specialist Science and Contingency Services". This falls under the industry category of research and development services and related consultancy services (CPV code: 73000000). The contract, awarded on 17 March 2025, involves the provision of critical scientific evidence and emergency response capabilities related to food and the environment.

It covers services within the United Kingdom. This procurement stage is the award stage, having directly awarded the contract to Fera Science Ltd due to the absence of competition for technical reasons. The initial contract period is for five years, with the option to extend for an additional five years (+2+1+1+1), and it will ensure a seamless continuation of statutory services.

The contract's value is £345,710,030. This tender presents significant opportunities for businesses involved in environmental safety, research laboratory services, and natural resources management to engage in essential public sector work. Companies offering expertise in areas such as pollution investigation, food or feed contamination protection, and marine conservation strategy planning would benefit greatly.

With Defra's focus on high-quality, reliable services and transformational capabilities, businesses that can demonstrate these qualities will be well-placed to compete. Additionally, the long-term nature and potential extensions of the contract provide stability and a platform for sustained business growth.