Most economically advantageous tender (MEAT)

The European rule for choosing a winner on the best price-quality ratio rather than price alone. Under the UK Procurement Act 2023 the equivalent is the “most advantageous tender”.

Also called: MEAT, Most advantageous tender (MAT)

Related terms

Best value

Choosing the bid that gives the best mix of quality, risk and price, not simply the cheapest. Most IT services contracts are awarded on best value.

Evaluation criteria

How the buyer will score bids: the questions or factors, how many points each is worth, and how price is weighed against quality. They are published in the tender and must be followed.