West Midlands Bus Franchising Dynamic Market - Supplier Membership Applications

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is establishing a Qualifying Utilities Dynamic Market (QUDM) to competitively procure bus franchising contracts as part of its transition from a deregulated to publicly controlled bus network. Interested suppliers must apply for membership to participate in tenders. The Dynamic Market will operate for approximately 13 years and procure contracts worth up to £1.56 billion across three tranches, with tenders issued in August 2026, March 2027, and October 2027. Contracts cover franchised bus services, drivers, vehicle maintenance, system integration, and performance management using WMCA-provided depots and zero-emission vehicles. Suppliers must register on the WMCA ProActis e-tendering portal and submit a completed Dynamic Market Questionnaire by the tranche deadline (31 July 2026 for Tranche 1) to be considered for membership. Only admitted Members will receive tender documents and can participate in procurements under the competitive flexible procedure governed by the Procurement Act 2023. Applicants missing a tranche deadline can still apply for subsequent tranches.