Invitation for Bid: Water & Beverages

Orange County Schools is seeking distributors for a comprehensive food service and beverage procurement contract through the National Cooperative Purchasing Alliance (NCPA) for the 2025-2026 school year. The invitation for bid covers multiple product lots including groceries, supplies, produce, and beverages for federally funded Child Nutrition programs. Distributors must provide water and bottled beverage products across six different product categories, with specific requirements for product quality, delivery, and compliance with USDA regulations. The bid requires distributors to submit detailed pricing information, including a fixed fee structure that covers product receipt, storage, distribution, and overhead costs. Vendors must comply with extensive documentation requirements, including brand certifications, food safety protocols (HACCP), insurance evidence, and background check procedures. The bid opening is scheduled for May 13, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the McKimmon Center in Raleigh, with initial contract terms for one year and potential for four additional one-year renewals contingent on mutual agreement. Distributors submitting five or more bids are required to attend the bid opening in person, while others may mail documents by May 9, 2025.

The procurement opportunity includes several set-aside and certification requirements that may impact vendor eligibility. Distributors must provide evidence of HUB (Historically Underutilized Business) certification and comply with NC Lunsford Act requirements for criminal background checks. The contract emphasizes the Buy American provision, requiring domestic food product sourcing to the maximum extent practicable. Produce distributors must provide additional documentation, including Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) certification and annual/weekly pricing contracts. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the document suggests total combined purchases by NCPA member districts could exceed $160 million. The contract covers 13 schools in Orange County, including 6 elementary, 3 middle, and 2 high schools, with 6 schools participating in the Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Program and 7 in Summer Feeding Programs. Vendors must demonstrate capabilities for electronic ordering, product substitutions, and potential Farm to School program support, with detailed delivery requirements including specific time windows and site-specific delivery instructions.