A call-off contract is a contract awarded under an existing framework. gov.uk’s framework guidance uses “call-off contracts” for the contracts awarded under a framework, and notes that most frameworks do not commit the buyer to award one.
Where it appears in the Act. The Act itself talks about awarding a public contract “in accordance with a framework” rather than using the words call-off. Section 45 says a framework can provide for future awards only following a competitive selection process, unless it has a single supplier or sets the core terms and an objective way to choose a supplier. Section 46 governs the competitive selection process, and says proposals may be assessed only by reference to the award criteria used when the framework was set up.
What it means for a small supplier. You can only compete for a call-off if you are already on the framework, so the real decision happens earlier, at the framework tender. Once you are on it, read the framework’s own rules: how call-offs are awarded (without further competition under s.45(4), or by a competitive selection process under s.46; informally, a mini-competition), how often buyers use it, and whether you must keep your insurance and certifications current to stay eligible. Being listed is not the same as being given work, so track which buyers are using the framework and make sure they know you exist.