Driving Forward with Purpose: The Next Chapter of CPC Drive
This month we are focusing on our CPC Drive team, who support organisations and customers across the public sector to find the right vehicle solutions for their needs and delivering comprehensive and compliant employee benefits.
We sat down with Commercial Manager Catherine Pugh to talk about the evolution of the framework, what drives her team, and the future of CPC Drive.
"As we look ahead to the next chapter of CPC Drive, I’m filled with a real sense of purpose and pride. Our vision is clear: to become the go-to framework for any vehicle requirement up to 3.5 tonnes across the public sector. What sets us apart is our deep understanding of the challenges our public sector colleagues face, and our commitment to delivering a tailored, empathetic, and expert service that truly meets their needs.
"Reflecting on our journey, the evolution of CPC Drive has been remarkable. Since opening to the wider public sector in 2018, we’ve grown from a niche NHS offering into a trusted, value-driven framework used by local authorities, education providers, and housing associations alike. Under the 2022 framework, we introduced KPIs, SLAs, and a more commercially focused, self-sufficient team—growing from just two people to a dedicated team of eleven. We’ve stayed close to our users, attending reviews, hosting roadshows, and raising our profile through social media and sector events.
"The last 18 months has been a significant period of change for public sector procurement, with the implementation of the Procurement Act, and there is a much greater focus being put on procurement and why we do things the way we do them and how we manage public sector frameworks.
"Looking ahead to the 2026 framework, we’re embracing change. Informed by extensive engagement with users and suppliers, our commercial proposition is changing for the new iteration of the framework. We’re introducing a new three-lot structure to offer more than a staff benefit provision: user chooser schemes, business-critical vehicle provision, and flexible rental options. This evolution reflects the real-world needs of our partners from NHS trusts to academy trusts who are seeking streamlined, compliant, and cost-effective routes to market. Our team are here to support organisations with our specialist knowledge so we can help them to identify the right route to market.
"Sustainability is also front and centre. With NHS England guidance pushing for all new vehicles to be electric from April 2026, we’re working hard to ensure our framework supports this transition—while recognising the practical challenges around infrastructure and affordability. We’re also adapting to new procurement regulations and have invested in contract management training across the team to ensure we’re ready to deliver even greater value and accountability.
"What motivates me most is the impact we can have. I want CPC Drive to be the first name that comes to mind when someone in the public sector needs a vehicle—whether it’s a minibus, a Luton van, or a salary sacrifice car. We’re not just a framework; we’re a partner. And I’m incredibly proud of the team that shares this vision and works tirelessly to make it a reality."