CG26 SLV Catered Meals *Subject to Availability of Funds*
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of the Army is soliciting proposals for Catered Meal Services in multiple locations in El Salvador for the Centam Guardian 2026 (ExCG-26) exercise. This is a Combined Synopsis/Solicitation for an Unrestricted acquisition. Offers are due March 18, 2026, at 12:00 PM CST. Note: This requirement is subject to the availability of funds in accordance with FAR 52.232-18.
Scope of Work
The contractor shall provide non-personal services, furnishing all labor, transportation, equipment, materials, and other items necessary for catered meal services (daily breakfast and dinner). Services are required at Ilopongo (Special Forces) CEAT, 4th Brigada de Infanteria El Paraiso (Chalatenango), and Nejapa Civil Protection. Key requirements include preparing individual meals, delivery, and serving, adhering to a 6-day rotational menu (7-day for breakfast) and specific nutritional standards (AR 40-25, 136g protein/day). Food safety and temperature control are critical, with the contractor responsible for all necessary equipment. For Chalatenango, on-site meal preparation is preferred, requiring the vendor to arrange with the 4th Brigade Salvadoran Army for a field kitchen setup and access. The government will provide designated structures, tables, and chairs for meal service, but no kitchens.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Firm Fixed-Price (implied for catering services)
- Period of Performance: April 16-27, 2026
- Offer Due Date: March 18, 2026, at 12:00 PM CST
- Set-Aside: Unrestricted
- Funding Note: Subject to availability of funds.
Key Requirements
- Contractor must supply all required temperature-control assets to maintain food safety standards.
- A U.S. service member will be present on-site to receive, verify, and sign for meals upon delivery.
- Contractor must obtain and maintain all required insurances as per El Salvadoran government regulations, including Defense Base Act (DBA) insurance, with proof required within 5 days of award.
- Background checks are required for all contractor and subcontractor employees, and signed non-disclosure agreements are needed 10 days prior to work commencement.
Evaluation
Award will be made using a "best value" approach, prioritizing the lowest total evaluated price and an "Acceptable" rating for the Technical Plan. Evaluation factors are ranked in order of importance: Price, Technical Plan, and Past Performance. Past performance experience in catering services in the Central America region is preferred.
Contact Information
Primary contact is MAJ Dustin Caranci at dustin.l.caranci.mil@army.mil or (520) 944-7168.