Exciting Launch of the New Beverages, Confectionery, and Snacks Framework

Get ready, because on 16 June 2025, NHS Supply Chain: Food is unveiling a new Beverages, Confectionery, and Snacks Framework that promises to transform the way NHS trusts source their favourite treats.

Imagine a procurement process that is not only streamlined but also packed with a tantalizing array of cold and hot beverages, scrumptious snacks, and essential vending consumables – all in one exciting framework.

This dynamic approach combines the best of both worlds, creating a robust and expanded supply base that ensures NHS trusts get the very best prices.

Beverages, Confectionery, and Snacks encompasses a vibrant range of patient feeding and retail products tailored specifically to meet NHS trust requirements. With our products stocked in warehouses, purchasing from us is easy. Trusts can easily order via our online NHS Supply Chain Catalogue, directly fulfilling their patients’ needs with delivery right down to the ward level.

Rachel Cowton, Category Buyer, NHS Supply Chain: Food

This framework will initially run for two years, until June 2027, with an option to extend for an additional two years – potentially making it a game-changer until June 2029.

The framework boasts an impressive 155 products, ranging from invigorating hot and cold drinks to indulgent snack foods like chocolate bars, crisps, and cakes. One of the star newcomers is our refreshing orange and mandarin fruit juice blend – just one 200ml serving meets a patient’s entire Vitamin C requirement for the day.  

We have a good selection of health-conscious options. Popcorn, rice cakes, and allergen-free hummus chips which are just a few of the healthy snacks available, ensuring that both patients and visitors have plenty of choices. And let’s not forget the beloved classics from popular high-street brands – tea, coffee, and biscuits that everyone knows and loves.  

This framework features 44 suppliers, balancing contributions from large suppliers and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which makes up nearly half of the supply base. Many of our SMEs, including family-run businesses, are ready to deliver products like fruit cordials and indulgent hot chocolate.

NHS Supply Chain: Food has welcomed 16 new suppliers, enhancing our diverse offerings and ensuring reliable supply for our customers. With reserve suppliers (back up options, should they be needed) included in the framework, we’ve got the contingency planning covered.

The NHS Supply Chain Catalogue is the most budget-friendly route for trusts to access these products. The dedicated Food Procurement Team is working tirelessly to deliver incredible savings in key patient feeding categories, including biscuits, water, and tea.

Managing inflation and securing the best prices for the NHS is a core part of Rachel Cowton, Category Buyer, NHS Supply Chain: Food role. Promotions will be actively communicated via our website and monthly customer newsletter – trusts can sign up and stay in the loop.

Our commitment to sustainability shines bright within this framework. Each supplier’s Carbon Reduction Plan (CRP) is meticulously assessed, ensuring we work towards the government’s Net Zero target.

Conversations with suppliers about shifting from plastic to paper packaging are vital to our sustainability efforts.

Rachel Cowton, Category Buyer, NHS Supply Chain: Food

As we strive to reduce single-use plastics, we’ll look to introduce recyclable and enhanced recycling options. Look forward to exciting sustainable choices, like vending in cup products that have transitioned from plastic to eco-friendly paper cups, and refreshing still and sparkling water available in recyclable aluminium cans.

Mark your calendars and get ready to experience a new era of procurement. Explore the culinary possibilities with the Beverages, Confectionery, and Snacks framework launching on 16 June 2025.  

For more exciting details, don’t hesitate to contact your local Food Account Manager.

See our Useful Links section to brows our website. We can’t wait for you to discover all that awaits.

Want to catch the latest promotions? Head over to the Food Savings website to see what’s available right now. See our Useful Links section.

Looking for products? See our Useful Links section to browse our full range in the NHS Supply Chain Catalogue and find exactly what you need.