Abstract
In recent years, public procurement has evolved from a cost-driven process into a strategic policy instrument for promoting sustainability, innovation, and social value. This study investigates how the Most Economically Advantageous Tender (MEAT) criteria are implemented in Dutch public procurement, and which factors influence their adoption and weighting. Drawing on a dataset of 4,957 tenders published in the Netherlands between 2021 and 2023, the research applies a combination of non-parametric tests and regression analyses to identify sectoral, regional, and organisational patterns in MEAT usage.
The findings show that MEAT criteria are widely used, with quality emerging as the dominant non-price factor. However, the inclusion of sustainability and innovation remains limited. Significant variation is found across sectors, provinces, and types of contracting authorities. Urban tenders and national agencies are more likely to prioritise non-price elements, while high contract value and complexity are positively associated with the use of comprehensive evaluation frameworks. Contrary to expectations, SMEs were more likely to win tenders that were both complex and heavily weighted on non-price dimensions, suggesting that complexity does not necessarily deter SME participation.
The study contributes to the academic literature by empirically demonstrating how contextual and institutional factors shape procurement behaviour, in line with theories of public value and institutional governance. In practical terms, it provides evidence-based recommendations for contracting authorities and policymakers, such as the development of standardised templates, targeted training, and simplified procedures to support SME inclusion. These insights aim to enhance the strategic impact of procurement and better align national practices with EU policy goals on sustainability and innovation.
Keywords: Public Procurement, MEAT, Sustainability, Innovation, SME Participation, Strategic Purchasing, Netherlands