Bottled Water and Water Cooler Service

The State of Rhode Island Division of Purchases is seeking quotes for a multi-year Master Price Agreement (MPA 165) for bottled water and water cooler services, encompassing a comprehensive range of water-related products and equipment for state agencies and political subdivisions. The procurement covers the purchase and delivery of various water types including spring, distilled, and purified water in 5-gallon, 3-gallon, and 1-gallon containers, as well as 0.5L bottled water cases. The solicitation includes rental of water cooler dispenser units (both cold and hot/cold), water filtration system installations, filter changes, professional cleaning services, and accessory items like water cups. Estimated annual quantities are substantial, including 18,000 5-gallon purified water containers, 12,000 5-gallon spring water containers, and 4,200 cases of 0.5L bottled water. The solicitation (RFQM23002441) was posted on March 22, 2023, with a vendor Q&A period running from March 22 to April 5, 2023, and proposals due by April 19, 2023, at 10:00 AM EDT. The initial contract term will be approximately three years, beginning July 1, 2023, with options to renew for two additional 12-month periods based on vendor performance and funding availability.

The procurement includes specific requirements for Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) participation, with vendors required to complete an MBE Participation Acknowledgment Form as part of their proposal. Vendors must be registered in the Ocean State Procures system and possess necessary licensing and insurance coverage, including $1 million in general liability insurance, workers' compensation, and automobile liability. The Master Price Agreement will have statewide applicability, allowing participation by political subdivisions including municipalities, institutions of higher education, municipal and state schools, and quasi-public agencies. A 1% contract administrative fee will be assessed on all purchase orders issued under the agreement. While no specific incumbent vendors are mentioned, the solicitation indicates the state reserves the right to make one or multiple awards and to reject any or all bids. Vendors must also comply with Rhode Island's Affirmative Action requirements and provide anti-boycott certifications. Although a specific budget range is not explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the solicitation and the significant annual quantities suggest a potentially substantial contract value for the successful vendor(s).