Automated Reusable Food Container Collection Machine

This is a Sources Sought Notice only. This is not a Request for Proposal (RFP), Request for Quotation (RFQ), or Invitation for Bid (IFB), and does not obligate the Government to issue a solicitation or award a contract.

This Source Sought Notice is to identify potential sources capable of providing an automated reusable food container return/collection machine to support sustainable dining operations.

We are seeking vendors who can provide a comprehensive solution that includes:

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  A collection machine capable of accepting one type of reusable food container (e.g., plastic or stainless steel, as specified)

  
  


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  A drop-and-go system that enables users to return containers quickly and efficiently without staff assistance

  
  


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  Self-service kiosk or reverse vending-style functionality

  
  


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  User authentication, container tracking (e.g., barcode or RFID), and data reporting capabilities

  
  


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  Designed for high-volume food service environments such as military dining facilities, cafeterias, or campus settings

  
  


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  Supports closed-loop sustainability programs aimed at reducing single-use packaging waste

  
  

If your company offers such a system, we kindly request a brief capability statement including:

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  Product specifications or brochures

  
  


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  Relevant NAICS and PSC codes

  
  


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  Business size and socioeconomic status (e.g., small business, 8(a), SDVOSB)

  
  


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  CAGE code and UEI

  
  


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  Point of contact information

  
  


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  Relevant experience or Past Performance

  
  

This request is for market research purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation. Your response will help inform our acquisition strategy and potential set-aside determination.

We would appreciate your response by 10:00 AM Japan Standard Time on 02 September 2025 to the contact information below.

A1C Ruoqing Qi

ruoqing.qi.1@us.af.mil

This notice is for informational purposes only. Any response to this notice is not considered a commitment by the government. The government will not reimburse contractors for any cost incurred for their participation in this Sources Sought.

It is the responsibility of the potential offeror to monitor the site for additional information pertaining to this requirement. Any information provided to the government is strictly voluntary and will be provided at no cost to the government.