Travel Agent Services

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, specifically the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation, is soliciting proposals for comprehensive travel agent services through a Request for Response (RFR) with procurement code BD-26-1090-SCA01-SCA01-121832. The procurement seeks a single travel agency to provide end-to-end travel management services for multiple state agencies, including booking air travel, hotel accommodations, ground transportation, and comprehensive traveler support for both domestic and international trips. The selected vendor must demonstrate capabilities in securing lowest available fares, offering 24/7 support, and assisting with rebooking and traveler management. Eligible state agencies include the Office of Consumer Affairs and divisions such as Banks, Insurance, Standards, Telecommunications and Cable, and Occupational Licensure. Vendors must submit responses through the COMMBUYS platform, with the contract anticipated to have an initial 36-month duration and potential 1-year renewal, for a total maximum contract period of 4 years. The Strategic Sourcing Team will evaluate responses based on pricing transparency, service capabilities, and vendor qualifications.

The solicitation includes a mandatory Supplier Diversity Program (SDP) requirement, with bidders required to demonstrate a minimum 1% commitment to diverse business enterprises, including Minority Business Enterprises (MBE), Woman Business Enterprises (WBE), and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business Enterprises (SDVOBE). Additional evaluation points will be awarded for higher diversity commitments, and all proposed diverse business partners must be verifiable through the Supplier Diversity Office Directory or SBA Veteran Small Business Certification directory. The estimated procurement value ranges from $100,000 to $150,000, covering approximately 150-175 traveler bookings annually. Vendors must complete comprehensive documentation, including the Supplier Diversity Program Plan Form, Standard Contract Form, Contractor Authorized Signatory Listing, and a W-9 form. The Commonwealth reserves the right to award fewer or more contracts based on its specific needs, and bidders must provide detailed company profiles, certifications, and demonstrate expertise in managing complex travel service contracts. Prompt payment discounts and electronic fund transfer options may provide additional competitive advantages for potential contractors.