Turnover Requirement
As Gaeilge: Riachtanas Láimhdeachais
Also known as: Minimum Turnover, Annual Turnover Threshold
Last reviewed April 2026
A minimum annual turnover a bidder must demonstrate to qualify, capped at twice the contract value under EU rules except in justified cases.
Under Regulation 58(3) of S.I. 284/2016, contracting authorities may set a minimum yearly turnover requirement to ensure a bidder is financially solid enough to deliver the contract. The cap is twice the estimated annual contract value, unless duly justified (for example, on infrastructure projects with high upfront capital risk). Excessive turnover thresholds are a frequent ground of complaint from SMEs and were specifically targeted by the EU's procurement reforms to widen market access.
Sources and legal basis
Primary legislation and official guidance. Always confirm the current text on the source before relying on it.
Related terms
Selection Criteria
Minimum requirements a supplier must meet to be considered: financial standing, technical capability, tax clearance.
ESPD (European Single Procurement Document)
Standardised self-declaration confirming you meet exclusion grounds and selection criteria: required on EU-threshold tenders.
Lot
A subdivision of a contract that can be tendered for separately: used to open contracts up to SMEs.
Economic Operator
The EU procurement term for any supplier, contractor or service provider (an individual, firm, or consortium) that bids for or performs a public contract.