Jena revises procurement guidelines – Transparency and flexibility in focus

Background: Why the revision is necessary

Procurement policy in cities is a complex field that considers both legal and economic aspects. In February 2026, it was decided in Jena to review and adapt the existing procurement guidelines to changing market conditions. One of the main triggers was the observation that only a few suppliers participate in some tenders, which affects the competitiveness and economic efficiency of the procedures. In addition, there were criticisms about overly complex and bureaucratic requirements that particularly burden small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Analysis: The goals of the reform

1. Reduction of bureaucracy

A central goal of the revision is to reduce non-essential forms, proofs and documents. The Jena/Saale-Holzland district chamber of trades explicitly expressed this in a statement. They called for unnecessary requirements to be eliminated in order to encourage more companies – especially from the region – to participate in public tenders. This is a step towards a more practical, less bureaucratic procurement policy.

2. Stronger division of trades into lots

Another proposal, supported by the Jena/Saale-Holzland district chamber of trades, is a stronger division of trades into lots. This should enable more local companies to participate in municipal projects. Large tenders with high capital requirements are often only feasible for larger companies, while smaller or medium-sized providers are excluded. Through a granular division, even smaller companies can participate, which promotes competition and strengthens the regional economy.

3. Compliance with the VOB and legal certainty

While the city of Jena aims for more flexibility and practicality, it remains committed to legal foundations. The VOB (Procurement and Contract Regulations) remains the central framework. At the same time, the Jena/Saale-Holzland district chamber of trades is calling for legal room for maneuver to be communicated transparently. This is important to build trust in the fairness and legal certainty of the procedures – both for suppliers and the administration.

Implementation: How is the reform proceeding?

The reform is being carried out in close coordination with the specialist departments, the legal department and the audit department. This is necessary to ensure that the new guidelines are both practical and legally compliant. After the revision is completed, the new version will be submitted to the Finance Committee for preliminary discussion before being adopted by the City Council.

The Municipal Services Committee of Jena, which held a public meeting on this topic in February 2026, played an important role in this process. The discussions with external actors such as the Jena/Saale-Holzland district chamber of trades show that the city of Jena is actively seeking dialogue with the business community.

Outlook: What does this mean for Jena?

The reform of the procurement guidelines is a step towards a more transparent, competitive and less bureaucratic procurement policy in Jena. It could contribute to strengthening the regional economy, involving more SMEs and at the same time improving the quality and fairness of procurement. The experiences from this process could also serve as a model for other cities.