John Bean Technologies Juicer

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Fruit and Vegetables, intends to enter into a single-source lease agreement with John Bean Technologies for up to fifteen (15) FMC Model 091-B juice extractor machines. These specialized extraction units will be strategically positioned across citrus processing plants throughout Florida to extract, evaluate, and determine the percentage of total soluble solids per pound on delivered citrus for the purpose of assessing fruit maturity and maintaining quality control standards. The equipment will be sub-leased to individual processing plants to preserve the agency's control over statewide testing procedures and ensure uniformity and consistency across the citrus industry. The contract term runs from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. Prospective vendors who believe they can provide equivalent commodities or contractual services must submit relevant information to the contact person no later than May 18, 2026, with the formal due date listed as May 26, 2026. The procurement is based on Chapter 20-61.001(2), F.A.C., which specifies that the FMC 091-B juice extractor must be used for these testing purposes, and John Bean Technologies holds U.S. Patent No. 5992311 for a "Method and apparatus for improving oil recovery in a citrus juice extractor," establishing them as the sole intended source.

The advertisement does not indicate any specific set-aside designations or restrictions limiting responses to particular categories of organizations or disadvantaged enterprises. John Bean Technologies, located at 400 Fairway Avenue, Lakeland, Florida 33801, is identified as the incumbent and sole intended source for this procurement. The estimated dollar amount for this single-source acquisition is up to $392,430.00 for the one-year lease term. The procurement approval chain included Ana McClure (Accountant II), Jay Hook (Assistant Director), Lisa Jensen (Director of the Division of Fruit and Vegetables), Stephanie Bergozza (Purchasing Director), and Joey Hicks (Director of the Division of Administration). Although this notice is not a formal request for bids or proposals, the agency will review all submissions from prospective vendors before making a final determination regarding single-source status, allowing interested parties the opportunity to demonstrate alternative solutions or capabilities prior to the contract award.