Annual Worker Glove Purchase Contract

The State of Maine Division of Purchases is requesting quotations on an annual worker glove purchase contract (RQS-727), with bids due October 28, 2009. The contract carries a 1% anti-sweatshop fee and requires submission of a notarized Code of Conduct affidavit certifying compliance with wage, labor, environmental, safety, and human rights standards — a decision-flipping eligibility gate.

The scope is thermal-lined leather slip-on work gloves or approved equivalents in five sizes: Small (20 pairs), Medium (60 pairs), Large (150 pairs), X-Large (180 pairs), and XX-Large (30 pairs), totaling 440 pairs for initial purchase with contingent orders of up to 100 additional pairs in varied sizes within the 12-month contract term. Bidders must submit a sample by the bid opening date to the Division of Purchases and provide unit pricing for all sizes. Prices must remain firm throughout the entire 12-month contract duration. All delivery orders are processed through AdvantageME unless the State Procurement Card is used. The successful contractor must inspect all garments prior to shipment and deliver items in first-class condition within 10 working days of order receipt.

The contract period runs through October 31, 2010, with options for two additional one-year renewals. The State reserves the right to increase or decrease quantities by up to 10 percent. Awards go to the lowest responsible bidder offering best value, with consideration of quality, conformity to specifications, delivery date, and ultimate cost. Cash discounts of 20 days or longer are considered in award evaluation. In-state bidders receive preference when price, quality, and availability are equal. All transportation charges are prepaid by the contractor and quoted net of all costs, FOB destination.

Sealed bids must be received at Room 119, 9 State House Station, State Office Building, Augusta, Maine by the October 28 opening date and time. Electronic bid tabulations will be made available for public inspection following award.