9260-26-R-IFBD-00002

Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU) is conducting a Request for Proposals (RFP) for exclusive Pouring Rights to supply beverages campus-wide, seeking soft or sports drink manufacturers to provide a comprehensive beverage distribution solution. The procurement covers carbonated and non-carbonated beverages including sodas, juices, cold teas, bottled water, sports drinks, and cold packaged coffee drinks to be distributed through dining, food service, and vending service vendors. Proposers must meet specific minimum qualifications, including having at least a 20 percent national market share of carbonated soft drink sales, a minimum of five years of higher education pouring rights experience, and demonstrated commitments to health and sustainability. The RFP requires the successful contractor to supply, deliver, install, and repair all beverage equipment at no cost to MVSU, including new commercial-grade, EnergyStar-qualified vending machines with credit/debit card readers. The evaluation will use a best-value method, scoring 90 points for technical and management proposals and 10 points for oral presentations, with financial considerations weighted at 40 points of the technical score. Key dates include questions due by November 12, 2025, at 2:00 PM CST, proposals due December 3, 2025, at 1:00 PM CST, with oral presentations scheduled for the week of November 17-21, 2025, and an anticipated contract award in February 2025.

The RFP does not explicitly mention specific set-aside designations or restrictions on responding organizations. Current service providers include Thompson Hospitality for food service and Delta Vending for beverage vending. The contract will be awarded for either seven or ten years without automatic renewals, as determined by MVSU's best interest. The financial proposal must include several components: upfront signing bonuses, annual guaranteed royalties, per-case royalties, promotional products, sponsorship proposals emphasizing MVSU Athletics, marketing promotions, career development and internship programs, scholarships, and a minimum two-year pricing structure with specific commitments and incentives. While specific award values are not explicitly stated, the comprehensive financial requirements suggest a significant potential contract value. Interested bidders can obtain detailed specifications by visiting the MVSU website at www.mvsu.edu/purchasing and can submit responses either via sealed bid or through the MAGIC Supplier Self-Service system. For additional information, bidders can contact Marilyn Jones at (662) 254-3302 or marilyn.jones@mvsu.edu.