Annual Contract for Defiberinated Whole Blood Products

The Maine Department of Health and Human Services, Health and Environmental Testing Laboratory is requesting bids for an annual contract to supply defiberinated whole blood products and guinea pig blood cells, with bids due July 21, 2008. In-state bidders and vendors offering commodities produced or manufactured in Maine receive award preference in case of tie bids.

The scope includes defiberinated whole rabbit blood (50 mL every 10 weeks), defiberinated whole sheep blood (100 mL bi-weekly), defiberinated whole horse blood (100 mL bi-weekly), and guinea pig red blood cells (5 mL weekly). The State reserves the right to increase or decrease quantities on an as-needed basis up to 10%. All shipments must arrive during morning hours to allow immediate refrigeration, and contractors must provide products with the longest possible shelf life.

The estimated contract value is $50,000 over a one-year period commencing approximately August 1, 2008 through July 31, 2009, though actual costs reflect only quantities ordered and delivered. Prices must remain firm throughout the contract period, with any price reductions applying to all subsequent shipments. All transportation charges are included in pricing on an F.O.B. destination basis. The State is exempt from federal excise taxes and state sales taxes. Contractors must accept the State of Maine Procurement Card as payment with no surcharges allowed.

Award will be determined based on overall best value, considering bid conformity, delivery capability, shelf life of products, pricing, and availability. The contract may be extended for up to two additional periods beyond the initial expiration date at the Director of Purchases' discretion with contractor consent. Unit prices must be submitted separately for each item. Cash discounts of 20 days or more are considered in determining the lowest bidder; discounts under 20 days will not be considered. Bids must be sealed and reach the Division of Purchases, Room 119, 9 State House Station, State Office Building, Augusta, Maine prior to the closing deadline.