2008 calendars

The State of Maine Division of Purchases is requesting sealed bids for 2008 calendar pads, with bids due September 14, 2007. The commodity is At-A-Glance brand calendar pads; alternate brands are considered only upon prior written approval with submitted samples. Specific quantities are firm.

Delivery is to the Division of Purchases Central Warehouse at 85 Leighton Road, Augusta, Maine on 40 x 48 non-exchangeable pallets during warehouse receiving hours (7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday). The contractor must contact the warehouse 24 hours prior to delivery and ensure material arrives in first-class condition. The State requests complete deliveries; partial shipments require prior arrangement with designated warehouse personnel.

Bid prices must be quoted net, including all transportation and delivery charges fully prepaid by the contractor to the single specified destination. The State accepts the Maine Procurement Card as a form of payment with no surcharges permitted. Bidders are encouraged to submit recycled products where feasible; awards may favor recycled-content items. Contractors must indicate willingness to accept additional calendar orders on an as-needed basis after the initial order, including applicable conditions and turnaround timeframes.

Awards will be made to the lowest responsible bidder considering best value, with evaluation factors including service and supply quality, specification conformance, delivery dates, and ultimate cost. The State reserves the right to make awards by individual item, by groups, or by lot; to reject any or all bids; to increase or decrease quantities by up to 10 percent; and to cancel any contract with 30 days' written notice or immediately if the contractor fails to conform to contract terms. Failure to meet contractual delivery terms may result in contract cancellation, and the State may deduct expenses incurred in establishing alternative suppliers from pending invoices. Cash discounts of 20 days or more are considered in determining the low bid; discounts under 20 days are not.