What is a framework agreement?
Look, a framework agreement is basically like that friend who helps you organize everything for a party, but without having to decide every detail at once. It is a type of contract that they use a lot in public hiring to make life less complicated, both for institutions and for companies that want to sell them things or services. Instead of being putting together a new contest every time they need to buy paper or hire a cleaning service, they sign this general agreement with one or more suppliers. Thus they already have the clear rules and they can close specific purchases faster for a certain time.
Advantages? A lot, really. For public entities, save a lot of paperwork and hours of work. They don't have to repeat the same boring process every time they want to buy something. And above, if they change their minds about what they need, the framework agreement gives enough margin to adapt. Not bad.
For companies, the thing also has its grace. Entering a framework agreement is almost like having a VIP pass to compete for several contracts for some time. It does not guarantee sales, eye, but it opens more doors than usual. You can fight for mini-contracts within that frame and, hopefully, you are doing well.
Of course, do not confuse: a framework agreement is not that they are already buying you something. They are just saying, "Look, if we need something, these are the ones that can offer us and under these conditions." Then, if a concrete need comes out, there will be another competition (or sometimes they give it to you directly if you are the only selected provider). That is, it's like being on the guest list, but you still have to win the place on the dance floor.
This entire roll is very regulated by laws, such as Directive 2014/24/EU in the European Union. Basically, they put the rules so that everything is transparent and nobody cheats. If you are interested in getting these public tenders, it is best to look for someone to know. Because the rules are not precisely simple and an error can leave you out of play.
In summary: The Framework Agreements are super useful, but you have to know how to play well to take advantage of them. And if you are new to this, you better ask someone who has already passed by. Because there are no second opportunities if you put the leg.