Fresh Produce - Request for Quote

The Colorado Department of Corrections is requesting quotes for fresh produce delivery to seven correctional facilities across Colorado under Documented Quote DQ 2027000051, with quotes due August 12, 2026 at 12:30 p.m. MST and written inquiries due August 10 at 4:00 p.m. MST. This is a weekly standing order with no guaranteed purchase volumes or dollar amounts; price and sample quality are the primary evaluation factors.

Deliveries span three days in mid-August 2026 across Buena Vista Correctional Complex, Arkansas Valley Correctional Facility, Central Warehouse, Sterling Correctional Facility, Denver Women's Correctional Facility, Denver Reception & Diagnostic Center, and Limon Correctional Facility. The produce list includes 30 line items—fruits, vegetables, and specialty items such as apples (357 boxes), bananas (214 boxes), russet potatoes (670 bags), salad mix (229 cases), and assorted fresh vegetables—with specified unit measures and quality standards including USDA compliance, date coding, and minimum shelf-life guarantees. Brand specifications are firm and substitutions will be rejected. All pricing is F.O.B. destination with freight prepaid and all-inclusive; vendors must incorporate shipping costs into their bids. Pricing must remain firm throughout the purchase order term, though CDOC may elect to negotiate annual price increases up to 2.5% per fiscal year.

Bidders must be registered with the Colorado Secretary of State and complete all required attachments including vendor information, W-9, insurance certificate (with $1,000,000 commercial general liability minimum and naming the State as additional insured), non-conflict of interest certification, and consent to search authorization. Awarded bidders must complete enhanced criminal background investigations within 30 days of notification and comply with CDOC security provisions. Vendors must provide three calendar days' written notice if unable to meet delivery schedules; three non-delivery failures within the agreed timeframe may result in disqualification for three years or indefinitely. Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Businesses must submit Department of Veterans Affairs certification documentation. Notice of intent to award is estimated for August 12, 2026, with purchase order execution and start date also August 12, 2026.