Cups & lids out to bid

The State of Maine Division of Purchases is requesting sealed bids for disposable cups and lids to supply all state using agencies through the Central Warehouse, with bids due December 17, 2007. The State offers a price preference of up to 10 percent for bids containing recycled content materials that fall within 10 percent of the lowest acceptable bid, with manufacturer certification required; in-state bidders and those offering Maine-manufactured products receive tie-bid preference.

The scope covers three line items: 48 cases of 5-ounce cold drink cups, 880 cases of 8-ounce hot drink cups, and 70 cases of lids for the 8-ounce cups. All cups must conform to first-grade materials and Federal Specification UU-C-806H; Styrofoam is not acceptable. Bidders proposing brands other than those on the approved products list must submit 100 sample cups prior to bid opening, along with manufacturer descriptive literature. Delivery must be made on 40 by 48 non-exchangeable pallets within 14 calendar days of order receipt; non-palletized shipments incur a 10 percent penalty charge.

The approximate annual contract value is $33,600, with the contract period running through December 31, 2008. Prices must be quoted as net, fully prepaid by the contractor, including all transportation and freight charges to the Central Warehouse at 85 Leighton Road, Augusta, Maine, and must remain firm for the contract duration. The State accepts the Procurement Card as payment with no surcharge allowed. Award will be made by item or lot as deemed in the State's best interest. The successful bidder must accept leftover lids at contract end. The Division reserves the right to cancel the contract with thirty days' written notice or immediately for non-compliance, and may increase or decrease quantities by up to 10 percent. Pricing sheets must be faxed to Sue Garcia at 207-287-6578 or submitted through the Advantage\ME bid system.