26-350SOS-SOS35-B-52561 Vendor Q and A 4.docx

This is a Vendor Question and Answer document issued by the Illinois Secretary of State for Request for Quote 26-350SOS-SOS35-B-52561 regarding the procurement of branded promotional items and giveaways. The solicitation requests eight categories of items in specified quantities: 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 were due by May 22, 2026, with all deliverables required by August 15, 2026, 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 clarifies that all items must be union printed with no partial exceptions permitted; any subcontractors must be identified in the solicitation documentation. Award will be made to the responsive and responsible bidder submitting the lowest price for all items in the category, with vendors required to submit firm pricing for each line item. Vendors must maintain general commercial liability insurance of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 annual aggregate, auto liability insurance, and workers' compensation as required by law. A significant change from the predecessor solicitation is the removal of the "Made in USA" requirement. Historical pricing information from prior bid cycle 26-350SOS-ORGAN-B-48433 is available to inform vendor pricing strategies. Standard Illinois certifications, prevailing wage obligations for printing services, and drug-free workplace certification apply where applicable. The exact maximum contract value is to be entered by the State prior to execution.