What's Happening?
The Post Office has encountered delays in finalizing a £170 million contract with a new tech provider to replace the Horizon IT system. The standstill period before signing the contract has been extended
twice, with the Post Office declining to comment on whether the decision is facing challenges. Accenture and OneView Commerce have been selected to fulfill the replacement agreements, cumulatively worth almost £500 million. Accenture will handle the delivery and support of existing services, while OneView Commerce will provide a new electronic point of sale system. The standstill period for the deal with OneView Commerce has been extended, delaying the contract's formal signing.
Why It's Important?
The delay in signing the Horizon replacement deal is significant due to the troubled history of the Horizon IT system, which has been linked to wrongful convictions and suicides. The replacement of this system is crucial for the Post Office to modernize its retail technology platform and meet evolving business and customer requirements. The extended standstill period suggests potential challenges or concerns from suppliers, which could impact the timeline and implementation of the new system. The successful replacement of Horizon is essential for restoring trust and improving operational efficiency within the Post Office.
What's Next?
The Post Office is expected to provide further information regarding the extended standstill period and any potential challenges to the award decision. Once the deal is signed, OneView Commerce will begin a 10-year engagement to deliver the new system. The Post Office will continue to work with Accenture and OneView Commerce to ensure a smooth transition and implementation of the new technology.
