State of Utah Cooperative Contract for Frozen and Cooler Foods

The State of Utah Division of Purchasing has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a statewide cooperative contract soliciting Frozen and Cooler Foods, designated as Solicitation #NS22-3. The procurement aims to consolidate existing food contracts into more distinct categories and create a more efficient procurement process for various governmental entities, including school districts, counties, state agencies, corrections facilities, and human services organizations. The RFP seeks to award multiple contracts to responsive and responsible vendors who meet specific requirements, with a proposed contract term of five years. Key objectives include increasing ordering efficiency, reducing administrative overhead, establishing electronic ordering and menu planning interfaces, minimizing product substitutions, and creating procedures for food delivery during disasters. Evaluation criteria will be based on a combined technical and cost scoring system, with the State anticipating awarding contracts to vendors receiving 3,208 points or higher. The solicitation was released on August 16, 2021, with proposals due by September 13, 2021, and historical contract spending for similar previous contracts approximated $24.5 million from July 2017 through June 2021.

The RFP does not specify explicit set-aside designations or restrictions on respondent types, but indicates an intent to open more opportunities for local vendors and provide expanded options for end users. The State does not guarantee any specific purchase amount under the future awarded contract(s) and reserves the right to reopen the solicitation or create a new solicitation if additional competition is possible. While no incumbent vendors are specifically highlighted, the procurement suggests an interest in vendors capable of integrating electronic ordering systems and providing comprehensive food distribution capabilities. The existing contract infrastructure appears flexible, allowing for multiple vendor awards and potential expansion of vendor participation. The historical spending of $24.5 million provides a benchmark for potential contract values, though the State explicitly maintains discretion in determining actual purchase volumes and contract allocations. Prospective vendors should be prepared to demonstrate capabilities in food procurement, electronic ordering technologies, and disaster response food delivery procedures.