BC-21533-B Exclusive Beverage and Pouring Rights RFP

University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) is requesting proposals for exclusive beverage and pouring rights on campus under RFP BC-21533-B, with proposals due November 5, 2026, and a mandatory pre-proposal conference on October 15, 2026. An MBE subcontracting goal of 5 percent applies to this procurement.

The scope encompasses a comprehensive beverage program including bottled beverages, vending machines, bag-in-a-box fountain beverages, and promotional support services. UMBC currently operates 51 vending machines across 28 locations, 8 fountain valves, and 30 coolers supporting dining services and the bookstore. The successful contractor must have all vending machines operational by June 31, 2027. Offerors must demonstrate at least ten years' experience providing beverage services to comparable organizations and provide three references for contracts performed within the past five years.

The contract term is ten years with three two-year renewal options exercised at the University's sole discretion. The financial proposal must include a minimum annual guarantee and commission percentage based on gross sales, with commissions paid monthly. Offerors must propose a signing bonus (suggested minimum $100,000) and annual donations to athletics and institutional advancement. Three sponsorship package options are available for the Chesapeake Employers Insurance Arena, ranging from $150,000 to $225,000 annually. The contractor must provide annual scholarships, marketing support contributions, and 250 cases of product annually to the Campus Card office. The contractor must maintain commercial general liability insurance of $2 million per occurrence and comply with sustainability requirements including Energy Star certified equipment.

Written questions are due October 26, 2026, at 2:00 PM EST. Tentative oral presentations are scheduled between November 30 and December 4, 2026. The University anticipates issuing an award in December 2026.