NEPO

1. How would you describe NEPO?

NEPO is a Public Buying Organisation based in Gateshead, proudly marking its 50th anniversary in 2026. We work in partnership with North East local authorities across Northumberland, Tyne & Wear, Durham and Tees Valley to deliver high-quality procurement solutions that generate savings, drive efficiencies and promote best practice.

With a team of just over 50 people and a portfolio of more than 80 solutions, we are committed to enabling the public sector to buy better. Collaboration is at the centre of everything we do, and our focus remains on delivering practical, reliable outcomes for public sector partners.

2. What do clients love about NEPO?

Clients value our ability to combine personalised support with robust, effective frameworks. We are small enough to understand individual organisational priorities, yet experienced enough to manage complex, high-value procurements.

Over five decades, we have built a reputation for frameworks that work—solutions that are compliant, fit-for-purpose and designed around real public sector needs. Above all, clients appreciate our friendly, accessible, responsive and genuinely supportive team.

3. What are your most innovative public sector build projects and what makes them special?

NEPO has supported a wide range of projects through our construction frameworks, including new school developments, the refurbishment of hospital wards, the construction of everything from transport hubs to crematoriums.

Our innovation lies not in a single project, but in our approach: early contractor involvement, strong local supply chain engagement, and frameworks designed to flex around the unique requirements of each contracting authority. Regardless of value—whether £100,000 or £20 million—every project is delivered with the same level of care, quality and partnership focus.

4. What makes you proud to be a part of the North East?

The North East is an exceptional place to live and work. Our region offers a distinctive mix of industrial heritage, natural beauty and developing infrastructure, but it’s the people who truly make it special.

Across Northumberland, Tyne & Wear, Durham and Tees Valley, you’ll find communities with resilience, character and pride. The accents and sporting loyalties may differ, but the warmth and spirit of the North East are constant, you will meet the very best of people in the North East.

5. What do you do to support your local communities?

Supporting communities is central to what we do. Our frameworks are designed to help authorities deliver meaningful social value, and we take a hands-on approach where we can—whether that’s tree planting, river clean-ups, packing food parcels or fundraising.

We recognise that every authority faces different challenges, so we ensure our frameworks have the flexibility to respond to local priorities and deliver benefits that matter

6. How did you first become involved with the NACF?

NEPO has been involved with NACF since 2013, and I joined the group in 2022 when I began working at NEPO. The longevity of NACF and its members is a testament to its structure, governance and common goals.

7. Why is NACF important in the construction industry?

NACF is built on a shared public sector ethos – procurement “by the public sector, for the public sector.”

Although members operate across the UK with different regional needs and organisational scales, we all share the same fundamental objective: delivering frameworks that provide value, quality and assurance for contracting authorities and, ultimately, taxpayers. The NACF’s collective strength lies in this alignment.

8. What would be your best piece of advice for a public sector organisation considering using a framework?

Take the time to review the contract notice and ensure the framework’s scope, value and purpose align with your requirements. Speak to us—understanding the procurement process and evaluation approach will help you make an informed decision.

Most importantly, trust your judgment. Choose the framework that gives you confidence in its governance, flexibility and ability to deliver the outcomes you need.