R -- Food and Beverages (Continental Breakfast) for the Biometric Consortium Conference 2006.

The contract involves the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) planning to engage ARAMARK Services, Inc., the sole in-house catering provider at the Baltimore Convention Center, on a sole source basis for conference services during the Biometric Consortium Conference held from September 19-21, 2006. The procurement is justified under FAR 13.106-1(b)(1) since ARAMARK is the only authorized caterer at the venue. The period of performance covers the three days of the event, and no solicitation package will be issued. Although the government will consider any responses received by September 1, 2006, this notice is not a request for competitive quotations, and the decision to compete the acquisition remains at the government’s discretion. The contract specifically covers providing food and beverages, including continental breakfast, at the conference. The solicitation number is 06-107-2032sks, and the relevant NAICS code is 722310 for food services and drinking places. The contracting office is located in Gaithersburg, Maryland, under the Department of Commerce NIST office, with Sandra K. Shaffner and Michael R. Szwed listed as contacts for further information. The sole source process is intended to streamline contracting due to ARAMARK’s exclusive catering role at the convention center, ensuring efficient service for the event.