Comprehensive book distribution services for WSU Press

Washington State University (WSU) is issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) numbered CC0417-JMC for comprehensive book distribution services for WSU Press, seeking a vendor to manage print, electronic, and audiobook inventory. The solicitation covers approximately 500 active titles with 8-10 new publications added annually, requiring services that include warehousing, order fulfillment, metadata distribution, returns processing, accounts receivables management, marketing support, international distribution coordination with Mare Nostrum Group, and royalty calculations. Bidders must have at least five years of experience in comprehensive book distribution services, particularly for scholarly or trade publishers, and submit proposals limited to 30 pages detailing their approach, qualifications, cost structure, and references. The evaluation will be conducted using a point-based system: 40 points for preferred qualifications, 25 points for the plan of approach, and 35 points for cost factors. The proposal is due on July 9, 2025, at 3:00 pm Pacific Time, with the selected vendor expected to begin work by August 1, 2025, and the contract running through December 31, 2030.

The RFP does not explicitly mention specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The contract anticipates estimated gross sales of $225,000, returns of $21,000, and storage of approximately 50,000 units per month, which suggests a substantial operational scope. Bidders are required to provide a transparent percentage-based fee schedule for these projected volumes. While no incumbent vendor is specifically identified, the RFP indicates that the successful contractor will need to coordinate with Mare Nostrum Group for international distribution. The university reserves the right to award the contract to the respondent deemed most beneficial and may require oral presentations to determine the final awardee. The comprehensive nature of the services and the multi-year contract duration (through December 31, 2030) suggest a significant opportunity for a qualified book distribution services provider with robust operational capabilities.