FIVE WELL HOT FOOD COUNTER
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 Veterans Affairs (VA), specifically the Tuscaloosa VA Medical Center, is conducting market research through a Sources Sought Notice to identify qualified vendors capable of providing three (3) commercial-grade five-well hot food counters. This equipment is required as the VA transitions to a cook-serve model for its dining hall. The primary goal of this notice is to determine if a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) set-aside is appropriate for a future solicitation. Responses are due by June 8, 2026, at 3:00 PM Eastern Time.
Scope of Work & Requirements
The VA requires three (3) five-well hot food counters that meet or exceed specific mandatory salient characteristics. Offers not meeting these will not be considered. Mandatory Characteristics include:
- Countertop: 14-gauge stainless steel with five (5) die-stamped well openings.
- Hot Food Wells: Five (5) individual, thermostatically controlled wells, each rated at 1,000 watts.
- Drainage: Wells plumbed to a common bottom valve for easy access and cleaning.
- Exterior: Stainless steel front and end panels.
- Storage: Convenient under-storage area.
- Mobility: Heavy-duty, no less than 5-inch swivel casters with brakes (non-marking).
- Power: Minimum 10-foot external cord and plug assembly, configurable for left or right-hand access.
Desirable Optional Features include a 6-inch folding stainless steel work shelf, stainless steel single/double-tier overshelf, heat lamp, 3-bar serving tray rail, sneeze guard, raised drain, convenience outlet, and heated under-storage. Vendors are encouraged to indicate support for these.
Contract Details & Delivery
- Quantity: Three (3) units.
- Delivery Location: Tuscaloosa VA Medical Center, 3701 Loop Rd, Tuscaloosa, AL, 35404.
- Required Delivery Period: Within 30-45 calendar days after contract award.
- Installation/Demonstration: Vendor must demonstrate equipment operation upon delivery.
Submission & Evaluation
Responses are due electronically via email to James.boles2@va.gov by June 8, 2026, 3:00 PM Eastern Time. The subject line must be "Sources Sought Response — Five-Well Hot Food Counter — 36C247-26-AP-3095". Submissions are limited to ten (10) pages, excluding attachments like product brochures. Requested information includes:
- A capability statement detailing business information, technical capability (confirming mandatory/optional features, manufacturer/model, delivery ability).
- Contract vehicles.
- Up to three (3) past performance examples.
- Optional pricing information (Rough Order of Magnitude - ROM).
Eligibility & Set-Aside
This is market research to determine the appropriateness of an SDVOSB set-aside. While responses from all business categories are welcome, SDVOSB concerns must be currently certified by the SBA through the VETCERT program to be considered for a potential SDVOSB set-aside.
Additional Notes
This is a Sources Sought Notice only and does not constitute a solicitation or guarantee a future solicitation or award. The Government will not pay for information submitted. Respondents are responsible for monitoring SAM.gov for any follow-on solicitation.