Self-operated coffee franchise for housing dining & culinary services (UW-MAD) [20-5083]

The University of Wisconsin-Madison's Purchasing Services is seeking proposals for a self-operated coffee franchise for Housing Dining & Culinary Services, specifically to replace the current Newell's Deli in a residence hall. The procurement seeks a branded coffee operation that will serve nearby offices and off-campus student housing, with the primary location being Smith Hall and potential for additional locations. Proposal submissions were due by March 25, 2019, at 2:00 PM CDT, with four hard copies required and optional site visits encouraged. The evaluation process will assess technical responses across several key areas including training and operational support (150 points), marketing programs (125 points), products (200 points), sustainability (125 points), space and equipment requirements (125 points), and timetable (25 points). To be considered, proposers must score a minimum of 575 points on technical sections, with a total possible score of 1,000 points. The contract term is set for five years (July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2024), with potential renewal options for an additional five years by mutual agreement.

The solicitation provides opportunities for Minority Business Enterprises and Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses, offering a potential five percent preference weighting if their qualified proposals are within five percent of the top-scoring proposal. Successful proposers must submit a franchise agreement, provide at least three business references, include criminal background check certifications for all workers, and maintain commercial liability insurance of at least one million dollars. While no specific incumbent vendor is mentioned, the University qualifies for governmental and educational discounts. Although the RFP does not specify a precise award value or budget range, it does not guarantee any specific purchase quantity or dollar amount. Proposers are required to keep their pricing firm for 60 days from the proposal date, with any potential price increases limited to documented, industry-wide cost increases and submitted 15 calendar days prior to the effective date.