Student Life Publications Printing and Related Services

The University of Connecticut is conducting a Request for Proposal (RFP) for Student Life Publications Printing and Related Services, seeking qualified print production operations vendors to provide comprehensive printing and distribution services for student life materials. The procurement involves producing approximately 27 publication projects annually, totaling over 700,000 pieces including books, brochures, inserts, posters, postcards, and other print materials. Proposers must demonstrate significant printing capabilities, including high-resolution color proofs, prepress work supporting up to six colors in one press pass, personalized mailings, specialty finishes, and digital printing technologies. The RFP requires vendors to handle electronic file transfers, pre-flight checks, color proofing, press checks, and distribution to five UConn campus locations (Storrs, Hartford, Stamford, Avery Point, and Waterbury). Key dates include a pre-proposal conference on December 1, 2025, at 2:00 PM ET, with questions due by December 5, 2025, at 2:00 PM ET, and proposals due on December 12, 2025, at 2:00 PM ET. The evaluation committee will assess proposals based on four primary criteria: firm experience (25%), printing and distribution capabilities (40%), customer service and support (20%), and financial proposal (15%), with a preference for references from higher education institutions.

The University strongly encourages participation from small businesses, minority-owned businesses, woman-owned businesses, and businesses owned by persons with disabilities certified by Connecticut's Department of Administrative Services. Proposers must submit mandatory documents including the Campaign Contribution Certification form, Bidder Contract Compliance Monitoring Report, SEEC Form 10, Vendor Code of Conduct acknowledgment, Connecticut Economic Impact Form, and Non-Collusion Affidavit. The initial contract term is one year with six additional one-year extension options, potentially creating a seven-year agreement. Proposers must provide three to five references and demonstrate the ability to handle complex printing requirements, with a preference for vendors within 75 miles of the Storrs campus to minimize travel costs. Payment terms are structured as 2% discount if paid within 15 days, with net 45-day terms, and subcontracted work is limited to a 2.5% upcharge with prior written University approval. While specific contract value is not explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the services and the potential seven-year term suggest a significant financial opportunity for the selected vendor.