1. Purpose of this Market Engagement
NTW Solutions is undertaking early market engagement to explore options for replacing its automated pharmacy dispensing robot.
The current system is supported until September 2027. This exercise is intended to understand market capability in advance of any future procurement.
This is not a tender or call to competition. The objectives are to:
* Assess market capability and maturity
* Understand available solutions and service models
* Inform the scope, specification and procurement approach
2. About the Organisation
NTW Solutions provides pharmacy services supporting NHS clinical services across multiple sites. Medicines management is a safety-critical function operating within a regulated NHS and digital environment.
3. High-Level Requirement
The dispensing robot is a core operational asset supporting:
* Automated, secure storage and dispensing of medicines
* Accurate and efficient individual dose dispensing into monitored dosage systems
* Stock control, tracking and auditability
* Reduced manual handling and improved workforce efficiency
* High reliability in a time-critical, high-volume environment
The replacement solution must provide a robust, scalable and future-proof platform.
At this stage, NTW Solutions is interested in understanding:
* Types of automated dispensing / robotics solutions available
* Suitability for individual dose dispensing (MDS)
* Throughput, capacity and scalability
* Physical footprint and infrastructure requirements
* Implementation and transition approaches
* Ongoing support and lifecycle models
4. Integration and Digital Requirements
Suppliers should demonstrate capability in:
* Integration with pharmacy stock control systems
* Integration with EPMA systems
* Interfacing with wider clinical systems
* Use of open standards and APIs
* Reporting and data extraction
* Compliance with NHS cyber security and IG requirements
Particular interest is in solutions that avoid bespoke integrations and remain adaptable.
5. Supplier Capability
Suppliers are invited to provide high-level information on:
* Relevant NHS / healthcare experience
* Implementation models and timescales
* Support and resilience arrangements
* Training and change management
* Product roadmap
* Indicative commercial approach / pricing models
6. Next Steps
Information gathered will inform a future procurement strategy. Participation does not guarantee inclusion in any subsequent procurement.
7. Response Details
Suppliers are invited to submit a brief, high-level response addressing the above areas.
* Deadline: 5 June 2026
* Contact: Gavin.Thompson@ntw.nhs.uk
