the reason the previous supplier (Banner) dropped this contract was due to unsustainable pricing on a re-tender request.

it's certainly going to be interesting to hear about how well these companies do in supporting these contracts.

or how much the MoD is going to overspend in the coming months/years

http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/ModTeamHelpsMake100MillionGovernmentSaving.htm

The MOD DE&S Office Supplies Category Management Team commissioned the services of Group Supplies to structure a commercial tender process and hold the reverse auction.

The company advised MOD to split the contract and undertake four auctions on sequential days with the £110m stationery supplies requirement being completed on the first day.

http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/ModTeamHelpsMake100MillionGovernmentSaving.htm

The MOD DE&S Office Supplies Category Management Team commissioned the services of Group Supplies Ltd to structure a commercial tender process and hold the reverse auction.

The company advised MOD to split the contract and undertake four auctions on sequential days with the £110m stationery supplies requirement being completed on the first day.

Horray for our wonderful government saving huge piles of money.

Well, I thought at least one person should say it - no need to only post negative comments about the government...

The reality is, that fat cat bosses will absorb the savings, by rewarding themselves bonuses for coming up with the plan...