Maine WIC Farmers' Market Program Checks

The State of Maine Division of Purchases is requesting quotations for Maine WIC Farmers' Market Program Checks, with quotations due March 15, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. local time via the Vendor Self Service electronic submission platform.

The scope is $5.00 vouchers designed for WIC participants to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from authorized Maine farmers' markets. The checks include specified security features (unique tracking numbers, FSMC watermarks, authorization stamps) and design specifications for face and screen configurations. Delivery terms are FOB Destination with prepaid transportation at the vendor's expense.

Maine applies a recycled content price preference: bidders offering paper products containing a minimum of 30% post-consumer recycled material and falling within 10% of the lowest responsive bid receive up to a 10% price preference if they clearly disclose recycled content percentage in their bid. The State also reserves authority to pay a price premium of up to 4% above the lowest submitted bid to achieve paper with 100% post-consumer recycled or certified virgin fiber content from approved sources (ATFS, FSC, MLCP, PEFC-affiliated entities, SFI). Bidders must specify fiber content percentages and provide proof of chain-of-custody or certification status.

The contract permits extension beyond initial expiration with the State Purchasing Director's discretion, not to exceed three years total, and allows an overrun not exceeding 3% of the bid amount. The State reserves the right to award based on lowest priced conforming quotation or combination of factors including quality, conformity, delivery time, and ultimate cost, with price receiving minimum 25% weight. Past performance is a stated evaluation factor. Standard payment terms are net 30 days from correct invoice receipt. Submission of a bid constitutes acceptance of all stated terms and conditions, and the State may increase or decrease quantities by up to 10% at agreed-upon pricing.