Odyssey Collaborative Trust - Supply of Gas

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.

It's not just about the gas

The first thing to realise about this tender is that Odyssey Collaborative Trust isn't just buying gas.

They're purchasing a seamless service that ensures their sites run smoothly without interruptions.

Yes, the contract covers the physical supply of gas to all their sites in the East Midlands.

But it's also about managing invoicing and handling queries efficiently.

If I were evaluating bids, I'd be looking for a company that can do more than just deliver gas.

Think beyond the supply

Supplying gas is straightforward.

What sets you apart is how you manage the relationship.

I'd ask myself:

• How will you handle billing issues?
• Can you resolve queries quickly?
• Do you have a clear process for managing disputes?

These are the things that matter to the Trust.

Your proposal should focus on the whole package, not just the supply.

Remember the end-users

Ultimately, the gas is there to support the Trust's schools.

That means a consistent supply is crucial.

But so is minimising the administrative burden on their staff.

Think about how your systems can make life easier for the Trust's finance and site teams.

Offer solutions that reduce their workload.

Pay attention to what they say

In the notice, the Trust mentions invoicing and query management.

This isn't just a side note.

It's a priority.

They're looking for a partner who can handle queries without creating hassle.

I'd make sure my submission details how my team manages these aspects efficiently.

Evidence always beats promises

One thing I've learned is that evidence is everything.

I wouldn't just say I provide excellent service.

I'd prove it with:

• Case studies of similar contracts
• Testimonials from other clients
• Performance metrics that show consistency

Real examples make your bid stand out.

Consistency is key

This contract runs from 30 September 2026 to 30 September 2028.

That's two years of service delivery.

The Trust needs assurance that standards won't slip over time.

I'd explain how I maintain service levels, even during staff changes or peak demand periods.

Show your local knowledge

Odyssey Collaborative Trust operates in the East Midlands.

Understanding the local context can be a plus.

If I were writing this tender, I'd mention any local advantages or partnerships that could benefit the Trust.

One thing I'd keep reminding myself

I'd keep returning to the real people affected by this contract.

The teachers, students and staff at the Trust's sites rely on a consistent gas supply.

I'd ask myself: does my response address their needs?

Common mistakes

Avoid submissions that:

• Focus solely on gas delivery without mentioning support services
• Lack evidence for claims about service quality
• Fail to detail query and billing management processes
• Overlook the importance of local context
• Ignore the need for consistent service over two years
• Use generic language that could apply to any bidder

My Final Thoughts

The Odyssey Collaborative Trust is looking for more than just a gas supplier.

They need a partner who can manage the service without creating extra work for their teams.

With a contract value of £238,000 over two years, it's clear that quality is just as important as price.

That's why I'd make sure my written submission clearly demonstrates how I manage invoicing and queries effectively, alongside maintaining a reliable supply.