London Luton Airport Operations Limited has published a procurement opportunity for lla cargo ev forklifts - l26008-q-og with an estimated value of an undisclosed value. The submission deadline is 2 May 2026, giving eligible UK suppliers a limited window to prepare and submit bids through the official Find a Tender portal.

Published on 2026-04-09, this contract is open to suitably qualified suppliers across the United Kingdom. All businesses interested in bidding should review the full tender documentation and confirm they meet all eligibility requirements before the closing date.

Contract overview

The existing fleet has reached the end of its operational life. In line with our Net Zero commitments, we are seeking to replace these with electric forklifts to ensure continuity of operations within the Cargo function. The opportunity is for the provision of 2 x 3.5 tonne electric counterbalance forklifts, including the installation of associated charging infrastructure. The requirement is for a lease arrangement with a service and maintenance plan for a minimum term of 3 years, with the option to extend by a further 1+1 years. The forklifts will support day to day cargo operations across the airport.

London Luton Airport Operations Limited is the contracting authority. The estimated value is an undisclosed value and the deadline is 2 May 2026. Download the full specification from the official portal before preparing a bid.

Is your business eligible?

This contract is most relevant to IT consultancies, software developers, managed service providers. Suppliers typically need to demonstrate experience delivering similar contracts, appropriate financial standing, and hold Cyber Essentials Plus, ISO 27001.

Under the Procurement Act 2023, London Luton Airport Operations Limited must actively consider SME participation. Check whether this contract has been structured into lots.

• Proven track record in it & technology contracts of comparable scope
• Financial standing appropriate for a an undisclosed value contract
• Relevant certifications: Cyber Essentials Plus, ISO 27001
• Capacity to mobilise within London Luton Airport Operations Limited’s required timeframe
• Ability to meet the 2 May 2026 submission deadline

How to submit a bid

• Step 1 — Access the notice: Visit Find a Tender at https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/032288-2026
• Step 2 — Register free: Create or log in to your supplier account
• Step 3 — Download documents: Read the full ITT before preparing your response
• Step 4 — Raise clarifications: Submit questions early — Q&A typically closes 1–2 weeks before the deadline
• Step 5 — Submit before 2 May 2026: Late submissions are not accepted

What the buyer will evaluate

London Luton Airport Operations Limited will assess all compliant bids against published criteria. Buyers typically apply a 60% quality and 40% price weighting. Under the Procurement Act 2023, social value is a mandatory evaluation criterion.

Writing a winning bid

• Lead with an executive summary addressing London Luton Airport Operations Limited’s objectives directly
• Provide two or more case studies with measurable outcomes from comparable contracts
• Include specific, costed social value commitments
• Price to win but ensure your margin covers full delivery
• Submit at least 24 hours before 2 May 2026

Frequently asked questions

Can SMEs bid for this contract?

Yes. The Procurement Act 2023 requires London Luton Airport Operations Limited to consider SME suitability and remove unnecessary barriers.

Is registration on the portal free?

Yes. Registering as a supplier on Find a Tender is completely free.

What happens if I miss the 2 May 2026 deadline?

Late submissions are not accepted. The deadline is absolute. Submit at least 24 hours early.

Where are the full tender documents?

All documents are on the official Find a Tender listing at https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/032288-2026.

This article is for informational purposes only. Always verify all details on the official procurement portal before submitting a bid. Kael Tripton is not affiliated with or endorsed by London Luton Airport Operations Limited or the UK government.