The CEA has issued a progress update on the tender process for the future operation of CESAR, the CEA-owned official security marking and registration scheme for the construction and agricultural machinery sectors.
The Expression of Interest process remains open, with submissions now due by 10 August 2026. Organisations that would like to be considered as part of the process are invited to complete the Expression of Interest form.
The current CESAR operations contract expires in early 2028, which means the CEA is undertaking a tender process for the future operation of the scheme.
Work to shape the tender requirements is progressing well, with key stakeholder meetings and initial supplier discussions already providing detailed insight into the services, capabilities and delivery requirements needed for the future. This work will help ensure CESAR remains robust, consistent and fit for purpose for the sectors it serves.
CESAR is owned by the CEA and is widely recognised and supported across industry, policing and the insurance sector. The scheme plays an important role in deterring equipment theft, supporting police identification and assisting with the recovery of stolen machinery.
The Expression of Interest process is intended to identify all organisations with the capability and interest to support the future delivery of CESAR services. The CEA welcomes submissions from providers able to deliver part, some or all of the required services, whether through a single integrated solution or a combination of specialist capabilities.
This process will help the CEA assess the range of options available and identify the most appropriate and sustainable approach for the future operation of the scheme.
Viki Bell, CEO of the CEA, said: “CESAR is owned by the CEA and is an important, recognised and widely supported scheme for the construction and agricultural machinery sectors.
“The current CESAR operations contract expires in early 2028, which means the CEA needs to undertake a tender process for the future operation of the scheme. That process is already well underway, with stakeholder interviews and initial supplier discussions helping to shape the requirements for the next stage.
“We welcome Expressions of Interest from organisations with the capability and interest to support the future delivery of CESAR services, whether they are able to deliver part, some or all of the required services.
“I would encourage all interested parties to complete an Expression of Interest by 10 August 2026 if they would like to be considered as part of the process.
“CESAR has an established and valued role in the industry. This process is about ensuring consistency and continuity for its future operation, while making sure the scheme continues to work effectively for industry, enforcement partners and those who rely on it.”
CESAR also supports wider industry efforts to tackle equipment theft, including the work of NCATT, the National Construction and Agricultural Theft Team, by providing clear identification and registration information for protected assets.
Organisations interested in being considered as part of the process should complete the Expression of Interest form by 10 August 2026.
Expression of Interest form: https://thecea.org.uk/eoi-cesar-project