26-350SOS-SOS35-B-52561 Vendor Q and A 3.docx

This is a Vendor Question and Answer document for Request for Quote 26-350SOS-SOS35-B-52561 issued by the Illinois Secretary of State for branded promotional items and giveaways. The procurement solicits bids for eight categories of items including 5,000 ink pens, 500 canvas tote bags, 10 navy blue tablecloths, 2,500 state-shaped key tags, 10,000 silicon wristbands, 5,000 polyester lanyards, 2,500 heart-shaped chip clips with magnets, and 2,500 frisbee fans. All items must be branded with the "Life Goes On" logo featuring white font, a red donor symbol, and a yellow sun. Proposals are due by May 22, 2026, with all deliverables required by August 15, 2026, delivered FOB Destination to Springfield. The contract term extends from execution through June 30, 2026, with a maximum total term not exceeding ten years including renewal options. The document indicates that vendors have requested reference images for previously procured items, which will be added to the attachment section of the Bid Buy platform.

Award will be made to the responsive and responsible bidder submitting the lowest price for all items in the category, with firm pricing required for each line item. Vendors must submit printing through union print shops and identify any subcontractors in solicitation documentation. Insurance requirements include $1,000,000 general commercial liability per occurrence and $2,000,000 annual aggregate, auto liability insurance, and workers' compensation as required by law. Historical pricing information from prior bid cycle 26-350SOS-ORGAN-B-48433 is available for reference. A significant change from the predecessor solicitation is the removal of the "Made in USA" requirement. Standard Illinois certifications and compliance requirements apply, including prevailing wage obligations for printing services and drug-free workplace certification where applicable. Questions should be submitted in writing to Aaron Reuben at areuben@ilsos.gov.