Scientific Supplies and Equipment Distributor

The University of Kansas, in partnership with several affiliated institutions including the University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas State University, and Wichita State University, issued Solicitation Number 2788978 to procure scientific consumables, laboratory supplies, and equipment through a Request for Proposal (RFP) dated October 24, 2025. This procurement seeks a Scientific Supplies and Equipment Distributor to serve as a Mandatory Supplier with possible designation of Preferred Suppliers to ensure the supply of high-quality, new, and unused scientific products supporting research and educational activities across multiple campuses in the state of Kansas. The contract term spans three years starting July 1, 2026, with two optional one-year renewals, during which the vendor is expected to provide comprehensive product lines, timely delivery, integration with university procurement systems, and value-driven pricing. Bidders must submit detailed pricing spreadsheets covering core high-volume items, non-core market basket items, discount structures, and additional miscellaneous costs such as shipping and handling fees. Proposals are evaluated based on a weighted scoring system emphasizing scientific product quality, pricing competitiveness, logistics and delivery performance, customer service, data integration, institutional fit, and compliance with regulatory requirements. Contract terms incorporate University of Kansas General Terms and Conditions and a specific contractual provisions attachment (KU-146a Rev. 02-25) outlining legal, administrative, and compliance requirements including liability disclaimers, termination rights, governing Kansas law, and anti-discrimination clauses. Vendors must comply with federal equal opportunity regulations, demonstrate certification about debarment and suspension status, and adhere to rigorous information security standards detailed in the Information Technology Standard Terms and Conditions. Delivery expectations require shipments to be FOB Destination with no freight or handling charges beyond the contract price, and strict adherence to delivery timelines: 98% of market basket items within two business days, non-core items within three days, and rush orders within one day. Inspection and acceptance of goods are performed at destination with the University retaining the right to reject nonconforming items. Administrative details specify electronic invoicing via designated University accounts payable contacts, with Net 30 payment terms under the Kansas Prompt Payment Act. The bid submission is managed through the Euna Procurement portal (Ion Wave), where bidders must complete multiple requirements and upload all supporting documentation by the December 19, 2025 deadline. Throughout the contract, the supplier is responsible for regulatory compliance, including hazardous material handling (DOT/IATA), and is subject to performance monitoring, reporting, and contractual accountability provisions designed to support the universities’ shared mission of advancing scientific research and education.