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Crown Commercial Service became Government Commercial Agency on 1 April 2026.
What is Government Commercial Agency?
Government Commercial Agency (GCA) is an enhanced executive agency that will come into operation from 1 April 2026.
GCA brings together commercial expertise from several Cabinet Office’s Central Commercial Teams and Crown Commercial Service into a single, integrated agency – achieving better value for taxpayers and supporting the Government’s missions.
By uniting the strengths of both organisations, GCA creates a stronger, more joined-up commercial function for government and the public sector.
Sam Ulyatt leads the agency as Chief Executive and Accounting Officer, working closely with Andrew Forzani, the Government Chief Commercial Officer.
Why is this change happening?
This change is in response to the Cabinet Office Futures Programme and Arms Length Body Review. The aim is to create a commercial function that:
- brings together the strengths of both teams
- improves efficiency
- provides better value for the nation
Service offer overview
For a high level look of what our GCA service offer will be on 1 April, view our service offer. We will update it as our service availability evolves.
What this means for you
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Buyers
Find answers to common questions about what the change to GCA means for you as a buyer.
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Suppliers
Find answers to common questions about what the change to GCA means for you as a supplier.
What buyers need to know
Will my relationship with Crown Commercial Service and Government Commercial Function colleagues change?Hide
No, for the time being there will be no change to your existing relationships:
- our points of contact and those providing you with regular support will stay the same
- any future changes to the services and how you should engage with GCA will be clearly communicated to you.
Will the services we access from the agency change? Hide
No, the services you currently use will stay the same.
GCA aims to improve services by combining knowledge and expertise to provide you with greater value.
How will the change to Government Commercial Agency benefit me?Hide
The change to GCA aims to provide you with greater value and efficiency. Benefits include:
- easier access to simpler procurement solutions and more efficient decision making
- improved collaboration which will help us to better understand your needs and build long-term partnerships
- more opportunities and a greater ability to shape markets through aggregate spending
- clearer communication and consistent standards across procurement, with one point of accountability
What will happen to my existing Crown Commercial Service procurements, contracts or call-off agreements? Hide
For now, everything stays the same:
- the legality of any existing Crown Commercial Service (CCS) agreement or framework will not change
- your existing contracts and any call offs remain valid and will continue in line with the terms they were awarded under
Do you expect any disruption to ongoing procurements or projects during the transition?Hide
No, we do not expect any disruption to ongoing procurements or projects.
The intention is to provide continuity and improvement.
How will GCA ensure consistent quality of service across the integrated teams?Hide
Government Commercial Agency will provide consistent quality through a clear leadership structure. Sam Ulyatt will be the Chief Executive and Accounting Officer for GCA. Sam will work closely with Andrew Forzani, the Government Chief Commercial Officer.
This new operating model will provide:
- one clear line of accountability across commercial procurement and policy
- better alignment and closer collaboration across all teams
- teams empowered with the ability and resources they need to work effectively
For our customers (buyers and suppliers) this will mean:
- clearer communication
- consistent standards across procurement
- better support throughout the commercial process
GCA will bring together the strengths of both Crown Commercial Service (CCS) and Government Commercial Function (GCF). Together GCA will build a stronger, unified organisation capable of meeting future government challenges.
What suppliers need to know
What will happen to my existing Crown Commercial Service procurements, contracts or call-off agreements?Hide
For now, everything stays the same:
- the legality of any existing Crown Commercial Service (CCS) agreement or framework will not change
- your existing contracts and any call offs remain valid and will continue in line with the terms they were awarded under
Will there be any changes to how payment is processed or to invoicing procedures?Hide
No, there will be no changes to how payment is processed. Our bank account name will change to GCA but the account number and sort code will remain the same.
We will be in touch nearer the time to confirm any email address changes for invoicing.
Will the supplier relationship management teams I currently work with stay the same?Hide
Yes, for the time being there will be no change to your existing relationships:
- your points of contact and those providing you with regular support will stay the same
- any future changes to the services and how you should engage with GCA will be clearly communicated to you
How will GCA ensure consistent quality of service and engagement from their integrated teams?Hide
Government Commercial Agency will provide consistent quality through a clear leadership structure. Sam Ulyatt will be the Chief Executive and Accounting Officer for GCA. Sam will work closely with Andrew Forzani, the Government Chief Commercial Officer.
This new operating model will provide:
- one clear line of accountability across commercial procurement and policy
- better alignment and closer collaboration across all teams
- teams empowered with the ability and resources they need to work effectively
For our customers (buyers and suppliers) this will mean:
- clearer communication
- consistent standards across procurement
- better support throughout the commercial process
GCA will bring together the strengths of both Crown Commercial Service (CCS) and Government Commercial Function (GCF). Together GCA will build a stronger, unified organisation capable of meeting future government challenges.
What benefits will the GCA bring in terms of market access and opportunity for suppliers, particularly SMEs?Hide
Government Commercial Agency will provide significant benefits to suppliers of all sizes to access and work with government. Here’s how:
Greater market access:
- enhanced capability to shape markets and aggregate spending more effectively
- more opportunities for businesses of all sizes
- specific focus on ensuring SMEs and voluntary sector organisations can access government contracts
Simpler, faster processes:
- simpler procurement processes and clearer routes to market
- more efficient decision-making with less bureaucracy
Focus on innovation and growth:
- GCA will align its work with the government’s Plan for Change and will actively seek suppliers who can help provide national priorities
- provide opportunities for businesses that can support innovation and stimulate economic growth
