Haute-Saône Department Secures €14.6 Million Contract for RN19 Road Widening and Infrastructure Works
03 Aug 2026
A construction contract for the widening of the RN19 national road worth €14.6 million has been awarded by the Haute-Saône Departmental Council. The contract, won by J.C. BONNEFOY, demonstrates how French departments are investing in critical road infrastructure to improve connectivity, safety, and economic development in rural regions. Introduction Every road user in the Haute-Saône region depends on safe, efficient transport infrastructure to travel, commute, and access services. The RN19 national road connecting Héricourt to the Sevenans interchange (A36 motorway) is a key transport artery requiring upgrade to 2x2 lanes to improve safety and capacity. The Haute-Saône Departmental Council has taken a significant step to deliver this upgrade by awarding a new construction contract for earthworks, drainage, road construction, and associated infrastructure. While not a headline-grabbing mega-project, this contract is fundamental to improving transport infrastructure in the Franche-Comté region. It reveals a great deal about how French departments deliver major road infrastructure projects through structured construction procurement. Why This Contract Matters The RN19 is an important national road connecting the Haute-Saône region to the A36 motorway (the "Autoroute des Vosges") and the wider French motorway network. The section between Héricourt and the Sevenans interchange currently requires upgrade to 2x2 lanes to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and enhance road safety. This contract covers the full range of civil engineering works required for the road widening, including general earthworks, drainage, construction of the road sub-base, construction of drainage structures (aqueducts and basins), restoration of local access roads, and execution of the carriageways. The project will improve connectivity and support economic development in the region. Contract Timeline Contract award notice published: 3 August 2026 (OJ S 147/2026) Contract concluded: 6 July 2026 Coverage start date: 15 July 2026 Coverage duration: 17 Months Preparation period: 1 month from notification Contract Overview The Haute-Saône Departmental Council conducted an open procedure for a construction contract for the widening of the RN19 between Héricourt and the Sevenans interchange (A36). The contract covers general earthworks, drainage, construction of road sub-base layers, construction of drainage structures (aqueducts and basins), restoration of local access roads, and execution of the carriageways. The total contract value awarded is €14,601,011.20. The contract duration is 17 months, with a one-month preparation period starting from notification. The procurement received 17 tenders, with J.C. BONNEFOY selected as the winner. The award criteria were weighted: technical and environmental value (30%) and price (70%). Key Contract Details Detail Information Contracting Authority Département de la Haute-Saône Winning Bidder J.C. BONNEFOY Contract Subject Construction work for highways (CPV 45233130) Procedure Type Open procedure Legal Basis Directive 2014/24/EU Value of Contract Awarded €14,601,011.20 Contract Duration 17 Months Preparation Period 1 Month Award Criteria Technical and Environmental Value (30%), Price (70%) Bids Received 17 EU Funding None disclosed Covered by GPA Yes Review Organisation Tribunal administratif de Besançon Project Scope The contract covers a comprehensive range of civil engineering works for the widening of the RN19. The scope includes: General Earthworks: Excavation, embankment, and earthmoving works for the road widening. Drainage Works: Installation of drainage systems including aqueducts and retention basins. Road Sub-base Construction: Construction of the road sub-base and foundation layers. Drainage Structures: Construction of drainage structures (aqueducts and basins). Local Access Restoration: Restoration of local access roads and connections. Carriageway Execution: Construction and surfacing of the new 2x2 lane carriageways. The project is located between Héricourt and the Sevenans interchange (A36 motorway) in the Haute-Saône department. The works will improve traffic flow, safety, and connectivity in the region. About the Contracting Authority Département de la Haute-Saône is the departmental council of the Haute-Saône department in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region of eastern France. The department is responsible for infrastructure, social services, education, and economic development across the region. The department is committed to improving transport infrastructure to support economic growth and quality of life for residents. About the Winning Company J.C. BONNEFOY is a French civil engineering and construction company, classified as an SME, based in Saône (Doubs department). The company specialises in earthworks, road construction, civil engineering, and infrastructure projects. With extensive experience in public sector infrastructure projects, J.C. BONNEFOY is well-positioned to deliver the complex road widening works required for the RN19 project. For this contract, J.C. BONNEFOY is using subcontracting with a subcontracting value of €92,000 for specialist works including civil engineering, diaphragm wall, calculation notes, testing, and road works. Procurement Analysis Procedure: An open procedure was used, following the French Public Procurement Code. Seventeen tenders were received, all submitted electronically, indicating very strong competition in the French civil engineering market. Competition: Seventeen bids were received for this contract, reflecting exceptionally strong competition for public sector infrastructure works in the region. Five of the tenders were from SMEs. Award Criteria: Technical and Environmental Value (30%): The quality of the proposed technical solution and environmental considerations. Price (70%): The total cost of the works. Price Emphasis: The 70% weighting for price reflects the importance of cost efficiency in road construction projects, while the 30% weighting for technical and environmental value ensures that quality and sustainability are also considered. Environmental Considerations: The inclusion of environmental value in the award criteria reflects the growing importance of sustainability in French public infrastructure projects. Single Lot Structure: The contract is not divided into lots, indicating that the works are best delivered by a single main contractor with comprehensive civil engineering capabilities. GPA Status: The procurement is covered by the World Trade Organization's Government Procurement Agreement (GPA), meaning it was, in principle, open to qualifying international bidders. Additional Procurement Facts Seventeen tenders were received for this procurement. The contract is a single lot, not divided into tranches or sub-lots. Five of the tenders were from SMEs. The winning bidder uses subcontracting valued at €92,000. A one-month preparation period is included before construction begins. No EU funding was used for this procurement. Disputes or review requests fall to the Tribunal administratif de Besançon. Market & Industry Perspective The French civil engineering market is highly competitive, with numerous contractors capable of delivering major road infrastructure projects. The seventeen bids received for this contract reflect the strong competition in the sector. The 70/30 price/technical weighting reflects the importance of cost efficiency in road construction projects, while recognising the value of technical quality and environmental considerations. This balanced approach ensures that the selected contractor can deliver a high-quality project at a competitive price. The single lot structure indicates that the works require a contractor with comprehensive civil engineering capabilities, including earthworks, drainage, and road construction expertise. Economic Significance At €14.6 million, this contract represents a significant investment in road infrastructure in the Haute-Saône region. The widening of the RN19 will improve traffic flow, enhance road safety, and support economic development by improving connectivity to the A36 motorway and the wider transport network. For J.C. BONNEFOY, the contract provides a substantial revenue stream and the opportunity to demonstrate its civil engineering capabilities on a major infrastructure project. Future Procurement Opportunities This contract covers the RN19 road widening through approximately 2028. Related procurement opportunities may include: Landscaping and environmental mitigation works Traffic management and signage installation Other road infrastructure projects in the region Bridge and structure construction Opportunities for Suppliers Civil engineering contractors active in the French public sector should note the importance of competitive pricing (70% weighting) in road construction procurement. Suppliers must demonstrate strong technical capabilities and environmental credentials alongside competitive pricing. Key success factors include: competitive pricing, proven experience in road construction and civil engineering, strong technical and environmental credentials, and the ability to deliver complex infrastructure projects. What Businesses Should Watch Similar road infrastructure projects from other French departments. The evolution of environmental requirements in road construction. Opportunities for subcontracting with J.C. BONNEFOY. Other infrastructure projects in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region. FranceTender Procurement Intelligence This contract is a useful case study in how French departments deliver major road infrastructure projects through competitive open procedures. The Haute-Saône Department has secured a €14.6 million contract for the RN19 road widening, with J.C. BONNEFOY selected through a highly competitive open procedure. The most notable feature of this tender is the exceptionally high number of bids (17), reflecting the strong competition in the French civil engineering market and the attractiveness of public sector infrastructure contracts. This level of competition benefits the contracting authority through competitive pricing and a wide range of technical solutions. The 70/30 price/technical weighting reflects the importance of cost efficiency in road construction projects, while recognising the value of technical quality and environmental considerations. The 30% weighting for technical and environmental value ensures that the selected contractor can deliver a high-quality, sustainable project. The single lot structure indicates that the works require a contractor with comprehensive civil engineering capabilities, including earthworks, drainage, and road construction expertise. This approach ensures that a single contractor is responsible for the entire project, simplifying project management and coordination. For suppliers, the lesson is that competitive pricing is essential for road construction contracts, but technical quality and environmental credentials are also important differentiators. Companies that can demonstrate both are best positioned for these contracts, even in highly competitive markets. Supplier Takeaways Price is the dominant factor (70% weighting). Technical and environmental value (30%) is an important differentiator. Seventeen bids received – extremely high competition. Single lot structure requires comprehensive civil engineering capabilities. Experience in road construction and earthworks is essential. Environmental considerations are increasingly important. Key Takeaways Haute-Saône Department awarded a €14.6 million contract for RN19 road widening to J.C. BONNEFOY. The contract covers earthworks, drainage, road construction, and associated infrastructure. Award criteria: Technical and Environmental Value (30%), Price (70%). Seventeen bids were received, with an SME winning. Contract duration: 17 Months (starting 15 July 2026). The project will improve connectivity and safety on the RN19 in the Haute-Saône region. Conclusion This is not a contract that will make national headlines, but it reflects something structurally important about how French departments deliver critical road infrastructure. By awarding a €14.6 million contract for the RN19 road widening to J.C. BONNEFOY, the Haute-Saône Department ensures that this key transport artery is upgraded to 2x2 lanes, improving safety, capacity, and connectivity. The contract demonstrates the importance of competitive pricing, the value of technical quality and environmental considerations, and the critical role of road infrastructure in supporting regional economic development. Frequently Asked Questions Q: What is the Haute-Saône Department? It is the departmental council of the Haute-Saône department in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region of eastern France, responsible for infrastructure, social services, and economic development. Q: What is the RN19? It is a national road connecting the Haute-Saône region to the A36 motorway (the "Autoroute des Vosges"). The section between Héricourt and the Sevenans interchange is being widened to 2x2 lanes. Q: What does this contract cover? It covers earthworks, drainage, road sub-base construction, drainage structure construction, local access restoration, and carriageway execution for the RN19 road widening. Q: Who is the winning bidder? J.C. BONNEFOY, a French SME based in Saône, specialising in earthworks, road construction, and civil engineering. Q: Is this contract funded by the EU? No. The notice confirms the project is not financed with EU funds, though it is governed by EU Directive 2014/24/EU.Source: EU Official Journal, Contract Award Notice 535709-2026, OJ S 147/2026, published 3 Aug 2026.
View Details
Bonneuil-sur-Marne Secures €13.45 Million Contract for Irene Curie Nursery School Construction
31 Jul 2026
A construction contract for a new Irene Curie nursery school worth €13.45 million has been awarded by the City of Bonneuil-sur-Marne. The contract, split across two lots with winners AEQUO CONSTRUCTION and L'ART ET LE BOIS STE D'EXPLOITATION, demonstrates how French municipalities are investing in modern educational infrastructure as part of urban renewal programmes. Introduction Every child deserves a safe, modern, and inspiring learning environment. In Bonneuil-sur-Marne, a new nursery school named after the renowned scientist Irene Curie is being built as part of the National Programme for Urban Renewal (NPNRU). The City of Bonneuil-sur-Marne has taken a significant step to deliver this project by awarding a new construction contract. While not a headline-grabbing mega-project, this contract is fundamental to providing quality educational infrastructure for young children in the community. It reveals a great deal about how French municipalities deliver new school buildings through structured construction procurement. Why This Contract Matters Bonneuil-sur-Marne is a commune in the Val-de-Marne department in the southeastern suburbs of Paris, with a population of approximately 18,000 residents. The town is undergoing urban renewal as part of the National Programme for Urban Renewal (NPNRU), which aims to revitalise disadvantaged neighbourhoods. The new Irene Curie nursery school will provide modern educational facilities for young children in the community, supporting early childhood education and development. The project is part of the broader urban renewal programme, contributing to the regeneration of the area. Contract Timeline Contract award notice published: 31 July 2026 (OJ S 146/2026) Contracts concluded: 23 July 2026 Coverage start date: 1 May 2026 Coverage duration: 34 Months Contract Overview The City of Bonneuil-sur-Marne conducted an open procedure for the construction of a new Irene Curie nursery school as part of the NPNRU (National Programme for Urban Renewal). The contract is divided into two lots: Lot 1 – Structure / Shell / Finishes / Technical Lots: Structural works, roofing, finishes, and technical installations. Lot 2 – Internal Joinery / Fit-out / Furniture / Signage: Internal joinery, fit-out works, furniture, and signage. The total contract value awarded is €13,449,568. The contract duration is 34 months, starting from 1 May 2026. The procurement received 16 bids, with AEQUO CONSTRUCTION winning Lot 1 and L'ART ET LE BOIS STE D'EXPLOITATION winning Lot 2. The award criteria were weighted: quality (60%) and price (40%). Key Contract Details Detail Information Contracting Authority Mairie de Bonneuil sur Marne (City of Bonneuil-sur-Marne) Winning Bidders AEQUO CONSTRUCTION (Lot 1), L'ART ET LE BOIS STE D'EXPLOITATION (Lot 2) Contract Subject Construction work for school buildings (CPV 45214200) Procedure Type Open procedure Legal Basis Directive 2014/24/EU Total Value of Contracts Awarded €13,449,568.00 Lot 1 Value €12,499,568.00 Lot 2 Value €950,000.00 Number of Lots 2 Contract Duration 34 Months Award Criteria Quality (60%), Price (40%) Bids Received 16 (per lot) EU Funding None disclosed Covered by GPA Yes Review Organisation Tribunal administratif de Melun Lots Overview Lot Description Winner Value (€) Award Criteria Bids Received LOT-0001 Structure / Shell / Finishes / Technical Lots AEQUO CONSTRUCTION 12,499,568 Quality 60%, Price 40% 16 LOT-0002 Internal Joinery / Fit-out / Furniture / Signage L'ART ET LE BOIS STE D'EXPLOITATION 950,000 Quality 60%, Price 40% 16 Project Scope The contract covers the construction of a new Irene Curie nursery school in Bonneuil-sur-Marne. The scope includes: Lot 1 – Structure / Shell / Finishes / Technical Lots: Structural works including foundations and framework, roofing and weatherproofing, external finishes, internal finishes, and technical installations (HVAC, electrical, plumbing). Lot 2 – Internal Joinery / Fit-out / Furniture / Signage: Internal joinery and carpentry, fit-out works, furniture supply and installation, and signage for the school. The project is being delivered as part of the National Programme for Urban Renewal (NPNRU), contributing to the regeneration of the area. The school is named after Irene Curie, the French scientist and Nobel laureate. About the Contracting Authority Mairie de Bonneuil sur Marne is the municipal government of Bonneuil-sur-Marne, a commune in the Val-de-Marne department in the southeastern suburbs of Paris. With a population of approximately 18,000 residents, the town is committed to providing quality public services, including education infrastructure. The municipality is actively involved in urban renewal through the National Programme for Urban Renewal (NPNRU). About the Winning Companies AEQUO CONSTRUCTION is a large French construction company based in Paris, specialising in building construction, structural works, and major public sector projects. The company has extensive experience in delivering educational and public sector buildings. AEQUO CONSTRUCTION won Lot 1 (structure, shell, finishes, technical lots) with a value of €12,499,568. L'ART ET LE BOIS STE D'EXPLOITATION is a large French company based in Pamfou (Seine-et-Marne), specialising in joinery, woodwork, interior fit-out, and furniture. The company has expertise in delivering high-quality interior fit-out for public buildings, including schools. The company won Lot 2 (internal joinery, fit-out, furniture, signage) with a value of €950,000. Procurement Analysis Procedure: An open procedure was used, following the French Public Procurement Code. Sixteen bids were received for each lot, indicating strong competition in the French construction market for public sector projects. Competition: Sixteen bids were received for each lot, reflecting a highly competitive market for school construction and interior fit-out works in the Paris region. Award Criteria: Quality (60%): The technical value of the offer, including construction methodology, project management, and quality assurance. Price (40%): The total cost of the works. Quality Emphasis: The 60% weighting for quality reflects the importance of construction quality, project management, and technical excellence in school building projects. For educational facilities, quality and safety are critical factors that cannot be compromised for cost alone. Lot Structure: The two-lot structure allows for specialisation, with a main construction contractor (Lot 1) and a specialist interior fit-out contractor (Lot 2). This approach ensures that each component is delivered by a specialist with appropriate expertise. GPA Status: The procurement is covered by the World Trade Organization's Government Procurement Agreement (GPA), meaning it was, in principle, open to qualifying international bidders. Additional Procurement Facts Sixteen bids were received for each lot. The contract has a 34-month duration. The project is part of the National Programme for Urban Renewal (NPNRU). Both winners are French companies. No EU funding was used for this procurement. Disputes or review requests fall to the Tribunal administratif de Melun. Market & Industry Perspective The French construction market for public sector buildings is competitive, with numerous contractors capable of delivering school construction projects. The sixteen bids received for each lot reflect a highly competitive market. The 60/40 quality/price weighting reflects the importance of construction quality and project management in school building projects. For educational facilities, quality, safety, and durability are critical factors that must be prioritised. The two-lot structure allows for specialisation, ensuring that the main construction works and interior fit-out are delivered by specialist contractors with appropriate expertise. Economic Significance At €13.45 million, this contract represents a significant investment in educational infrastructure in Bonneuil-sur-Marne. The new Irene Curie nursery school will provide modern, high-quality educational facilities for young children in the community, supporting early childhood development and education. For the two winning contractors, the project provides a significant revenue stream and the opportunity to demonstrate their capabilities in public sector construction. Future Procurement Opportunities This contract covers the construction of the Irene Curie nursery school through approximately 2029. Related procurement opportunities may include: Landscaping and external works Playground and outdoor equipment School equipment and educational materials Other public sector construction projects in the area Opportunities for Suppliers Construction companies active in the French public sector should note the importance of quality (60%) over price (40%) in school construction procurement. Suppliers must demonstrate strong technical capability, project management expertise, and a commitment to quality. Key success factors include: proven experience in school/public building construction, strong project management capabilities, compliance with building regulations and standards, and competitive pricing. What Businesses Should Watch Similar school construction opportunities from other French municipalities. The evolution of school design and construction standards. NPNRU urban renewal projects in other areas. Opportunities for subcontracting with the two winners. FranceTender Procurement Intelligence This contract is a useful case study in how French municipalities deliver new school buildings through structured construction procurement. The City of Bonneuil-sur-Marne has secured a €13.45 million contract for the Irene Curie nursery school, with two specialist contractors selected through a quality-focused open procedure. The most notable feature of this tender is the 60% weighting for quality, which reflects the importance of construction quality, project management, and technical excellence in school building projects. For educational facilities, quality and safety are critical factors that cannot be compromised for cost alone. This approach recognises that the value of high-quality, durable educational infrastructure far exceeds the cost savings of lower-quality alternatives. The sixteen bids received for each lot reflect a highly competitive market for public sector construction in the Paris region, demonstrating that there is significant interest in school construction projects. The two-lot structure allows for specialisation, ensuring that the main construction works and interior fit-out are delivered by specialist contractors with appropriate expertise. This approach is common in French public sector construction procurement. For suppliers, the lesson is that quality, project management capability, and experience in educational construction are critical success factors. Companies that can demonstrate these capabilities are best positioned for these contracts, even if they are not the lowest-cost bidders. Supplier Takeaways Quality is the dominant factor (60% weighting). Proven experience in school/public building construction is essential. Project management capability is a key differentiator. Price (40%) is important but secondary to quality. Two-lot structure allows for specialisation (main works vs. fit-out). Sixteen bids received – high competition. Key Takeaways City of Bonneuil-sur-Marne awarded a €13.45 million contract for the Irene Curie nursery school. Winners: AEQUO CONSTRUCTION (Lot 1) and L'ART ET LE BOIS STE D'EXPLOITATION (Lot 2). Award criteria: Quality (60%), Price (40%). Sixteen bids were received per lot, with two French companies winning. Contract duration: 34 Months. The project is part of the NPNRU urban renewal programme. Conclusion This is not a contract that will make national headlines, but it reflects something structurally important about how French municipalities invest in educational infrastructure. By awarding a €13.45 million contract for the Irene Curie nursery school to two specialist contractors, the City of Bonneuil-sur-Marne ensures that young children in the community have access to modern, high-quality educational facilities. The contract demonstrates the importance of quality, specialisation, and urban renewal in public sector construction procurement. Frequently Asked Questions Q: What is Bonneuil-sur-Marne? It is a commune in the Val-de-Marne department in the southeastern suburbs of Paris, with a population of approximately 18,000 residents. Q: What is being built? A new Irene Curie nursery school as part of the National Programme for Urban Renewal (NPNRU). Q: What is the value of this contract? The total contract value is €13,449,568. Q: Who are the winning bidders? AEQUO CONSTRUCTION (Lot 1 – structure/finishes) and L'ART ET LE BOIS STE D'EXPLOITATION (Lot 2 – joinery/fit-out). Q: Is this contract funded by the EU? No. The notice confirms the project is not financed with EU funds, though it is governed by EU Directive 2014/24/EU.Source: EU Official Journal, Contract Award Notice 531660-2026, OJ S 146/2026, published 31 July 2026.
View Details
UGAP Secures €211.7 Million Framework for Vocational Training Services
30 Jul 2026
A multi-lot framework agreement for vocational training services worth up to €211.7 million has been awarded by the Union des Groupements d'Achats Publics (UGAP). The contract, spanning five lots with multiple winners including CEGOS, Bureau Veritas, GoFluent, and Cilevel Partners, demonstrates how France's central purchasing body is supporting public sector workforce development through structured, competitive procurement of training services. Introduction Every public sector employee in France requires ongoing professional development to maintain and enhance their skills. From generalist training and IT courses to health and safety compliance, language learning, and digital learning, vocational training is essential for a skilled and effective public workforce. UGAP, France's central public purchasing body, has taken a significant step to ensure these services are available by awarding a new multi-lot framework agreement for vocational training services. While not a headline-grabbing infrastructure deal, this contract is fundamental to ensuring that France's public sector workforce has access to high-quality, cost-effective training. It reveals a great deal about how French public procurement supports workforce development through structured framework agreements. Why This Contract Matters UGAP (Union des Groupements d'Achats Publics) is France's central public purchasing body, serving a wide range of public sector organisations including central government, local authorities, hospitals, and public institutions. By aggregating demand, UGAP achieves better pricing and service levels than individual organisations could secure alone. This framework agreement covers five distinct training categories, providing public sector organisations with access to pre-qualified training providers across a comprehensive range of professional development needs. The framework structure streamlines procurement, reduces administrative burden, and ensures consistency in training quality. Contract Timeline Previous notice referenced: 667850-2025 Contract award notice published: 30 July 2026 (OJ S 145/2026) Contracts concluded: 30 June 2026 Contract Overview UGAP conducted an open procedure for the provision of vocational training services and associated services. The contract is divided into five lots: Lot 1 – Generalist and IT Training (off-the-shelf): Generalist and IT training courses with associated services (estimated value: €180,000,000). Lot 2 – Health and Safety at Work Training (off-the-shelf): Health and safety at work training with associated services (estimated value: €13,500,000). Lot 3 – Distance Foreign Language and French as a Foreign Language (FLE) Training: Distance language training with associated services (estimated value: €4,200,000). Lot 4 – Custom Digital Learning Training: Bespoke digital learning training with associated services (estimated value: €9,000,000). Lot 5 – Specialised Training and Professional Training Solutions Integrator: Specialist training and training solution integration with associated services (estimated value: €5,000,000). The total maximum value of the framework is €211,700,000. The framework is a multi-supplier framework with reopening of competition for individual call-offs. Each lot has two winners (Rank 1 and Rank 2), with the exception that each lot has two winners. The framework includes a renewal option. Key Contract Details Detail Information Contracting Authority Union des Groupements d'Achats Publics (UGAP) Contract Subject Vocational training services (CPV 80530000) Procedure Type Open procedure Legal Basis Directive 2014/24/EU Total Maximum Framework Value €211,700,000.00 Number of Lots 5 Winners per Lot 2 (Rank 1 and Rank 2) Award Criteria Service Quality (30%), Technical Value (30%), Sustainable Development Performance (10%), Price (30%) EU Funding None disclosed Covered by GPA Yes Review Organisation Tribunal administratif de Melun Lots and Winners Lot Description Rank 1 Winner Rank 2 Winner Max Value (€) Bids Received LOT-0001 Generalist and IT Training (off-the-shelf) CEGOS M2i FORMATION (with CFPJ, EFE FORMATION, ISM, PYRAMYD NTCV, YESNYOU, ACP FORMATION) 180,000,000 3 LOT-0002 Health and Safety at Work Training BUREAU VERITAS EXPLOITATION (with AFTRAL) APAVE EXPLOITATION France 13,500,000 2 LOT-0003 Distance Foreign Language and FLE Training GOFLUENT KERN Training 4,200,000 11 LOT-0004 Custom Digital Learning Training CILEVEL PARTNERS (with INEAD, M2I Formation) AVENIR CONSEIL 9,000,000 10 LOT-0005 Specialised Training and Training Solutions Integrator GROUPE CIMES PRO CONDUITE 5,000,000 2 About the Contracting Authority Union des Groupements d'Achats Publics (UGAP) is France's central public purchasing body, a public undertaking controlled by a central government authority. UGAP serves a wide range of public sector organisations, including central government, local authorities, hospitals, and public institutions. By aggregating demand, UGAP achieves better pricing and service levels than individual organisations could secure alone. UGAP's mission is to support the public sector in achieving efficient, cost-effective procurement across a wide range of categories, including training services. About the Winning Companies CEGOS is a large French training and consulting company, part of the international Cegos Group, one of Europe's leading providers of professional training and development solutions. Cegos offers a comprehensive range of training programmes across management, IT, and professional skills. M2i FORMATION is a French training company with a consortium of co-contractors including CFPJ, EFE FORMATION, PEDAGOGIE DU MANAGEMENT (ISM), PYRAMYD NTCV, YESNYOU, and ACP FORMATION. This consortium combines expertise across multiple training domains. BUREAU VERITAS EXPLOITATION is a large French company, part of the global Bureau Veritas Group, specialising in testing, inspection, and certification, including health and safety training. The company operates with co-contractor AFTRAL, a specialist in transport and logistics training. APAVE EXPLOITATION France is a large French company specialising in health, safety, and environmental risk management, offering comprehensive training services in workplace safety. GOFLUENT is a French SME specialising in language training, providing digital and distance learning solutions for foreign languages and French as a Foreign Language (FLE). KERN Training is a large French training company specialising in language and professional development training. CILEVEL PARTNERS is a large French company, operating with co-contractors INEAD (digital learning specialists) and M2I Formation, specialising in custom digital learning solutions. AVENIR CONSEIL is a large French consulting and training company, specialising in professional development and digital learning solutions. GROUPE CIMES is a large French training and consulting group, specialising in professional training and training solution integration. PRO CONDUITE is a French SME specialising in specialised training and professional development solutions. Procurement Analysis Procedure: An open procedure was used, following the French Public Procurement Code. Bids received ranged from 2 to 11 per lot, indicating varying levels of competition across different training categories. Competition: Lot 3 (language training) received the most bids (11), reflecting a highly competitive market for language training services. Lot 1 (generalist/IT) received 3 bids, Lot 2 (health and safety) received 2 bids, Lot 4 (digital learning) received 10 bids, and Lot 5 (specialist/integrator) received 2 bids. Award Criteria: Service Quality (30%): The quality of service delivery. Technical Value (30%): The technical quality and relevance of the proposed training solutions. Sustainable Development Performance (10%): Environmental and social sustainability considerations. Price (30%): The cost of the training services. Quality Emphasis: The 70% combined weighting for quality criteria (service quality, technical value, and sustainable development) reflects the importance of training quality, pedagogical effectiveness, and sustainability in public sector workforce development. Price, while important, is not the dominant factor. Framework Structure: The agreement is a multi-supplier framework with reopening of competition for individual call-offs. Each lot has two winners (Rank 1 and Rank 2), ensuring competition for individual training assignments while providing a pool of pre-qualified suppliers. Strategic Procurement: The contract includes strategic procurement objectives focused on reducing environmental impacts and promoting social objectives, reflecting UGAP's commitment to sustainable procurement. GPA Status: The procurement is covered by the World Trade Organization's Government Procurement Agreement (GPA), meaning it was, in principle, open to qualifying international bidders. However, all winning bidders were French companies. Additional Procurement Facts The framework covers five training categories with two winners per lot. The contract includes a renewal option. Bids received ranged from 2 to 11 per lot. All winning bidders are French companies. No subcontracting was used by any of the winning bidders. No EU funding was used for this procurement. Disputes or review requests fall to the Tribunal administratif de Melun. Market & Industry Perspective The French vocational training market is large and competitive, with numerous providers offering services across a wide range of categories. The UGAP framework demonstrates how public sector organisations can leverage central purchasing to access high-quality training services at competitive prices. The 70% weighting for quality criteria (service quality, technical value, and sustainable development) reflects the importance of training effectiveness and pedagogical quality in public sector workforce development. Public sector organisations invest in training to improve employee skills and performance, making quality a critical factor. The two-winner per lot structure ensures competition for individual training assignments while providing a pool of pre-qualified suppliers. This approach balances the benefits of framework agreements (streamlined procurement, pre-qualified suppliers) with the benefits of competition for individual assignments. Economic Significance At up to €211.7 million, this framework agreement represents a significant investment in public sector workforce development. The contract ensures that public sector organisations across France have access to high-quality, cost-effective training services across a comprehensive range of categories. For the winning training providers, the framework provides a stable, multi-year revenue stream and the opportunity to serve a broad range of public sector clients. Future Procurement Opportunities This framework agreement covers vocational training services through the contract period. Related procurement opportunities may include: Specialist training programmes for specific sectors Training consultancy and needs analysis Training facility and equipment provision E-learning platform and content development Opportunities for Suppliers Training providers active in the French public sector should note the emphasis on quality (70% combined weighting) over price (30%) in this framework. Suppliers must demonstrate strong pedagogical quality, technical expertise, and sustainability credentials to compete successfully. Key success factors include: proven training expertise, high-quality pedagogical methods, technical innovation, sustainability credentials, and competitive pricing. What Businesses Should Watch Individual call-offs under this framework from UGAP member organisations. Similar training frameworks from other French public purchasing bodies. The evolution of training requirements and pedagogical methods. Opportunities for subcontracting or partnership with the framework winners. FranceTender Procurement Intelligence This contract is a significant case study in how France's central purchasing body supports public sector workforce development through structured framework agreements. UGAP has secured a €211.7 million framework for vocational training services, with multiple winners across five lots selected through a quality-focused open procedure. The most notable feature of this tender is the 70% weighting for quality criteria (service quality, technical value, and sustainable development). This reflects the importance of training effectiveness and pedagogical quality in public sector workforce development. Price, while important at 30%, is not the dominant factor, recognising that the value of high-quality training far exceeds the cost savings of lower-priced alternatives. The two-winner per lot structure provides a balanced approach to framework agreements. Individual training assignments are awarded through mini-competitions between the two winners, ensuring price competition while maintaining a pool of pre-qualified, high-quality suppliers. The variation in competition across lots (2 to 11 bids) reflects the different market dynamics for different training categories. Language training (Lot 3) attracted the most bids, while health and safety (Lot 2) and specialist/integrator (Lot 5) attracted fewer bids, reflecting the more specialised nature of these markets. For suppliers, the lesson is that quality, pedagogical expertise, and sustainability credentials are critical success factors in public sector training procurement. Companies that can demonstrate these capabilities are well-positioned for these frameworks, even if they are not the lowest-cost bidders. Supplier Takeaways Quality is the dominant factor (70% combined weighting). Service quality (30%) and technical value (30%) are equally important. Sustainable development performance (10%) is increasingly valued. Price (30%) is important but secondary to quality. Two-winner per lot structure provides ongoing opportunities. Competition levels vary by training category (2-11 bids). Key Takeaways UGAP awarded a €211.7 million framework for vocational training services across five lots. Major winners include CEGOS, Bureau Veritas, GoFluent, and Cilevel Partners. Award criteria: Service Quality (30%), Technical Value (30%), Sustainable Development (10%), Price (30%). Bids received ranged from 2 to 11 per lot. The framework supports public sector workforce development across France. All winning bidders are French companies. Conclusion This is not a contract that will make national headlines, but it reflects something structurally important about how France supports public sector workforce development through strategic procurement. By awarding a €211.7 million framework for vocational training services across five lots, UGAP ensures that public sector organisations across France have access to high-quality, cost-effective training. The contract demonstrates the importance of quality, pedagogical expertise, and sustainability in training procurement, and the value of structured framework agreements in supporting workforce development. Frequently Asked Questions Q: What is UGAP? It is France's central public purchasing body (Union des Groupements d'Achats Publics), serving public sector organisations including central government, local authorities, and hospitals. Q: What does this framework cover? It covers vocational training services across five categories: generalist/IT, health and safety, foreign languages, digital learning, and specialist/integrator services. Q: How many lots are there? Five lots, each with two winners (Rank 1 and Rank 2). Q: What is the value of this framework? The total maximum value is €211.7 million. Q: Is this contract funded by the EU? No. The notice confirms the project is not financed with EU funds, though it is governed by EU Directive 2014/24/EU.Source: EU Official Journal, Contract Award Notice 527028-2026, OJ S 145/2026, published 29 July 2026.
View Details