ML2026/023 - EWI Cladding Reinstatement

Kim Frater, founder of Bid Trawler
Written by Kim Frater
Former Public Sector Buyer • Founder of Bid Trawler • 40+ years' public sector experience
"I believe public procurement shouldn't be complicated. Every guide I write explains the process in plain English so you can bid with confidence."

2 minute read  •  Updated August 2026

A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.

Don't just focus on the cladding

Yes, this tender is about EWI cladding reinstatement.

But what Magenta Living is truly buying is peace of mind.

They want to know that the buildings will be safe, energy-efficient and up to standard.

If you focus solely on the technical aspects of cladding, you'll sound like everyone else.

The project involves three Magenta sites in the North West, with a contract value of £6 million.

Remember, it's not just about installing materials.

It's about ensuring the integrity and longevity of the buildings.

The importance of the confidentiality declaration

Before you can even access the documents, there's a crucial step.

You must submit a completed 'Magenta Living Confidentiality Declaration'.

It's a gatekeeper.

Without it, you can't proceed. Your bid will be non-compliant.

Make sure your team understands this requirement and submits it promptly.

It's the first test of your attention to detail.

Think about the residents

These buildings are homes.

The people living there need reassurance that the work will be done safely and efficiently.

Consider how your work will impact them.

How will you minimise disruption?

How will you communicate with residents about the project timeline and safety measures?

Addressing these concerns will set your bid apart.

Evidence always beats promises

One thing I learned in the public sector is that evidence carries more weight than promises.

Every bidder will say they can deliver high-quality work.

But can they prove it?

  • Provide case studies of similar projects
  • Include testimonials from satisfied clients
  • Show before-and-after photos
  • Demonstrate compliance with safety and building regulations
  • Highlight any awards or accreditations

This is what will convince Magenta Living.

Pay attention to what they say

Magenta Living has made it clear that bids must include all three Lots.

This isn't just a preference. It's a requirement.

You can't pick and choose.

Make sure your proposal covers all aspects comprehensively.

They want a complete solution, not a piecemeal approach.

Managing consistency across all three sites

One challenge with multi-site projects is maintaining consistency.

Standards can't slip from one location to another.

If I were evaluating bids, I'd be looking for:

  • A clear plan for site management
  • Contingency plans for unexpected issues
  • Regular progress reports and inspections
  • A dedicated project manager for oversight

Show them that you're prepared to manage the entire project seamlessly.

One thing I'd keep reminding myself

At the heart of this project are people.

Families, individuals and communities.

Every decision, every plan, should consider their well-being.

Ask yourself, "How does this benefit the residents?"

It's a simple question, but it keeps you grounded in what truly matters.

Avoid submissions that:

  • Fail to submit the confidentiality declaration
  • Focus solely on the technical aspects without considering residents
  • Lack evidence to back up claims
  • Provide incomplete bids that don't cover all Lots
  • Ignore site management and consistency
  • Overlook the significance of communication and minimising disruption

My Final Thoughts

Magenta Living isn't just looking for a contractor.

They're looking for a partner they can trust with a £6 million investment over multiple sites.

The quality of your written submission will be crucial.

The focus is on delivering a complete, consistent solution with minimal disruption to residents.

The weight is on quality, so make sure your submission reflects that.

Thanks for reading.

I hope this guide has helped make public procurement feel a little less daunting. If it has, then it's done its job.

Kim
Founder, Bid Trawler

P.S. Got a question?

If you've got a question about anything you've read, or you're stuck on a tender, just send me an email.

Whether it's a quick question or you simply need pointing in the right direction, I'm always happy to help if I can.

kim@bidtrawler.com

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About our "How to Win This Contract" guides

Our guides are written using publicly available procurement information, including contract notices and published tender documents where available. They are designed to help suppliers understand the buyer's likely priorities and think more strategically about their approach. They are not based on any bidder's confidential submission, bespoke bid strategy or non-public procurement information.

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