Annual Contract for Vero Cells

The State of Maine Health & Environmental Testing Laboratory is soliciting bids for an annual contract for Vero cells and related laboratory supplies, with quotes due September 7, 2011. This is a competitive procurement open to any qualified supplier; no set-aside or preference program is identified except an in-state tiebreaker.

The scope includes cell cultures (Monkey Kidney Cynomolgous, Monkey Kidney Rhesus, WI-38 Cells, Vero Cells, and MRC-5 Cells in tube formats), diagnostic kits (D3 Enterovirus Identification Kit), and specimen collection supplies (flocked swabs and universal transport medium). The contract requires automatic weekly shipment of 35 tubes each of WI-38 and monkey kidney (either Cynomolgous or Rhesus — only one species will be selected for standard shipment), with additional products supplied on an as-needed basis. All deliveries must arrive within 24 hours and be scheduled for morning arrival to permit immediate product incubation. The state reserves the right to request quality samples for evaluation of delivery time and conditions. Damaged shipments must be replaced at the vendor's cost.

The estimated annual contract value is approximately $50,000; actual value may vary based on state agency requirements. The contract term is one year from the date of award, with the state retaining the option to extend beyond initial expiration with contractor consent. Pricing must remain firm for the contract duration, with any price reductions applying to all subsequent shipments. The contractor bears all transportation charges on an F.O.B. destination basis and must accept the State of Maine Procurement Card as payment with no surcharges. Contractors must submit separate invoices for each order within 30 days of delivery, referencing the contract number, shipment quantity, and delivery date. The incumbent supplier is Diagnostic Hybrids. Awards will be made to the lowest responsible bidder offering best overall value, with consideration given to quality, conformity to specifications, and delivery dates. Electronic quotes close at 2:00 p.m. local time on September 7, 2011.