Fresh Produce - Request for Quote

The Colorado Department of Corrections is requesting quotes for fresh produce delivery to seven correctional facilities across Colorado (Buena Vista, Arkansas Valley, Central Warehouse in Canon City, Sterling, Denver Women's, Denver Reception & Diagnostic Center, and Limon), with quotes due September 16, 2026 at 12:30 p.m. Mountain Standard Time and written inquiries due September 14 at 4:00 p.m. MST.

The scope covers approximately 30 produce items—including apples, bananas, cantaloupes, oranges, pears, watermelons, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, celery, lettuce, onions, peppers, tomatoes, and potatoes—with delivery scheduled for the week of September 21–23, 2026. All commodities must meet current USDA standards for required grades, be date coded, and maintain minimum 10 days of shelf life upon delivery to the DOC Warehouse. Pricing must be all-inclusive of shipping costs, F.O.B. Destination, with no surcharges or taxes. Substitutions are not permitted; three separate non-delivery failures within the agreed timeframe may result in disqualification from all future CDOC solicitations for three years or indefinitely. Vendors must provide three calendar days' written notice if unable to meet delivery schedules.

Award will be made to the responsible bidder whose acceptable quote is determined most advantageous to CDOC, with price being the primary consideration and sample quality and lead time as secondary factors. No order quantities or dollar amounts are guaranteed. Proposed pricing must remain firm during the initial purchase order term; CDOC reserves the right to negotiate annual price increases not to exceed 2.5% per fiscal year upon mutual agreement. CDOC may award to multiple bidders if determined in the state's best interest. All bidders must be registered in CORE and with Bidnet Direct. Prior to purchase order execution, the awarded bidder must provide proof of good standing with the Colorado Secretary of State and an insurance certificate documenting required coverage, including commercial general liability with minimum $1 million per occurrence. Notice of intent to award and purchase order execution are anticipated for September 16, 2026.