The provision of NRT, E-Cigarettes and Stop Smoking Medication Solution

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 September 2026

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

It's Not Just About Medication

This tender isn't just about providing nicotine replacement products.

It's about transforming Leicester's stop smoking service.

Leicester City Council wants a partner to support their Live Well lifestyle service.

The focus is on efficiency, accessibility and clinical governance.

Managing stock, dispensing medication and a seamless digital system.

That's the real ask.

Think About Leicester's Smokefree Ambitions

Leicester is serious about reducing smoking.

Your proposal should reflect that commitment.

The council has outlined its smokefree ambitions.

They're not just looking for a supplier.

They want a partner who shares their vision.

The Role of the Digital System

A secure and user-friendly digital system is crucial.

This isn't just a nice-to-have.

It's a core part of the service.

Managing orders, tracking deliveries and reporting.

Your system must do it all seamlessly.

And don't forget staff training and ongoing support.

Evidence Always Beats Promises

Leicester City Council will want proof.

Not just promises.

If I were writing this tender, I'd focus on:

  • Examples of similar projects you've managed
  • Testimonials from satisfied clients
  • Data showing improved accessibility and efficiency
  • Demonstrations of your digital system in action

That's what will set you apart.

How You'll Make Life Easier for Leicester

Every contract creates work for the client.

But the best suppliers reduce that workload.

If I were writing this tender, I'd explain how my service simplifies stock management and distribution.

How it cuts down on delays and enhances the client experience.

Pay Attention to What They Say

The council has been clear about their priorities.

Clinical governance, safety and efficiency.

They're looking for a service that aligns with NICE guidance and their own governance framework.

Don't gloss over this.

Show how you'll meet these standards consistently.

Holding Standards Over the Whole Term

Consistency is key.

It's not just about starting strong.

The council will want to know:

  • How you'll manage stock levels consistently
  • Your plan for covering staff absences
  • How you'll ensure compliance with clinical standards over the entire contract term

Think About the People Relying on This Service

At the heart of this contract are the people of Leicester.

The residents who need easy access to stop smoking solutions.

I'd keep reminding myself of this as I write.

It helps keep the focus on what really matters.

Common Mistakes

Avoid submissions that:

  • Overlook the importance of a robust digital system
  • Fail to demonstrate understanding of clinical governance
  • Ignore Leicester's smokefree ambitions
  • Lack evidence of past success
  • Underestimate the need for ongoing support and training
  • Fall short in detailing stock management processes
  • Don't address how you'll handle staff absences
  • Overpromise without substantiating claims

My Final Thoughts

Leicester City Council isn't just buying a service.

They're investing in a partner to help achieve their smokefree goals.

With a contract value of £305,000 over three years, potentially extending to five, this isn't a short-term commitment.

Quality matters here.

The council has made it clear that clinical governance and efficiency are top priorities.

That's where your written submission will make the difference.

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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