OFG-RFI0016-25

The Department of Justice's Federal Prison Industries (FPI) Allenwood has issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking potential leather suppliers for their office furniture seating lines. The RFI is specifically targeting leather vendors who can provide diverse leather styles to complement their existing leather program, which currently includes Davenport, Old English, Cuyahoga, and Catalina-II leathers. Classified under NAICS category 316110 for Leather and Hide Tanning and Finishing, this opportunity is set aside for total small business participation. The RFI was posted on December 23, 2024, with a response deadline of January 17, 2025. This document represents a preliminary market research effort to gather information about potential suppliers' capabilities and product offerings.

The primary objective of this RFI is to develop a comprehensive acquisition strategy for leather upholstery, with vendors required to demonstrate specific technical and operational capabilities. Potential suppliers must be able to provide at least 10 different leather styles, available on a cut square foot basis with a 1 hide minimum, and capable of delivering to multiple locations including Allenwood, PA and Beckley, WV. Key requirements include a 7-day lead time, FOB destination shipping, and NET15 payment terms. Vendors must possess critical certifications such as ISO 9001, environmental credentials (CARB, Greenguard, LEEDS), and meet specific flammability standards. The RFI mandates detailed specifications regarding leather style, thickness, weight, hide size, finish, and performance characteristics including light fastness, crocking, abrasion, flex, and tear strength. It is important to note that this RFI will not result in a direct contract award but will inform FPI's future procurement strategy for leather upholstery.