RFI for Vendor-Managed Inventory (VMI) for Pandemic Response Program
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 Defense Health Agency (DHA) is conducting market research through this Request for Information (RFI) to identify industry capabilities for providing full lifecycle Vendor-Managed Inventory (VMI) support for its Pandemic Program Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), initially focusing on N95 respirators. This RFI aims to gather information to develop a comprehensive strategy for potential future procurements. Responses are due by July 17, 2026.
Scope of Work
The potential VMI program would involve managing Government-Owned Material (GOM), including up to 9,000,000 N95 respirators. Key responsibilities include:
- Full lifecycle management: Procurement, inventory, storage, distribution, replenishment, and shelf-life monitoring.
- Storage: Secure, environmentally controlled facilities.
- Material Freshness: Maintaining a minimum of 12-24 months shelf life remaining.
- Stock Rotation: Demonstrating capability with commercial sales data.
- Surge Capacity: Maintaining 20% safety stock and ensuring timely shipping (24-72 hours).
- Reporting: Providing monthly inventory and shipping reports.
- Compliance: Adhering to federal regulations (FDA, OSHA, DOT).
- Sourcing: Ensuring Trade Agreement Act (TAA) compliance and assessing supply chain risks.
Information Requested
Respondents should provide details on:
- Corporate Experience: VMI program experience, warehouse network, GOM management, business/fee structures.
- Technical/Operational Capabilities: Inventory systems, regulatory compliance, product recall, end-of-contract inventory disposition.
- Modernization & AI: Potential uses of AI/ML for demand forecasting, inventory optimization, supply chain resiliency, automated reporting, and logistics.
- Supply Chain & Risk Management: Processes for TAA compliance and risk mitigation.
- General Information: Obstacles in similar procurements and recommendations for future RFPs.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research stage)
- Response Due: July 17, 2026, 5:00 PM EDT
- Published: June 10, 2026
Submission Instructions
- Method: Electronically to jared.d.acre.civ@health.mil and patrick.m.younkins.civ@health.mil.
- Subject Line: "RFI Response: VMI for Pandemic Response Program".
- Format: Address questions in order; marketing materials are not requested.
Important Notes
This is strictly an RFI for planning purposes and is not a solicitation. No contract will be awarded, and the Government will not pay for response costs. Proprietary information will be shared only with DHA personnel for market research.