Notice of Intent to Sole Source, Automated Microbiological Media Prep Equipment

The East Services Branch, Health Readiness Contracting Office (HRCO), Joint Base San Antonio, Fort Sam Houston, TX intends to Award a Firm Fixed Price, Purchase Order, on a sole source basis to bioMérieux, Inc., 515 Colorow Drive, Salt Lake City, Utah 84108, utilizing the authority of Title 41 U.S.C. §1901(e)(2) as implemented in FAR 13.106-1(b)(1): For purchases not exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT), only one source reasonably available, urgency, exclusive licensing agreements, brand name, or industrial mobilization.

This requirement is to provide new equipment, Masterclave 20 and VC-Peristaltic Pump PMi in support of The Microbiology Section, Food Analysis and Diagnostic Laboratory, Fort Sam Houston, Texas 78234. This equipment will replace the current Masterclave and the Peristaltic Pump, both have reached the end of their life-cycle and are critical for maintaining uninterrupted operations in support of the Section's vital mission.

The Government intends to procure new equipment, brand name 4704390, Masterclave 20, QTY 1, Each and 4702831, VC-Peristaltic Pump PMi, QTY 1, Each manufactured by bioMérieux, Inc under the authority of FAR 13.106-1(b)(1): For purchases not exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT), only one source reasonably available, urgency, exclusive licensing agreements, brand name, or industrial mobilization. The provision of highly specialized services when it is likely that award to any other source would result in - (A) Substantial duplication of cost to the Government that is not expected to be recovered through competition; or (B) Unacceptable delays in fulfilling the agency's requirements.

• (Updated) Minimum Clinical Performance Requirements

• Must be a fully automated microbiological media prep equipment with a minimum of 20L capacity


• Must have a separate peristaltic pump that is compatible to the fully automated equipment


• Must have a minimum 20L capacity that can create 55 to 1100 plates


• Must have touch screen capability


• Unit must have capability to homogenize, autoclave, temper and dispense media


• Unit must have traceability capability (supports ISO 17025 accreditation)


• Unit must have autofill / auto-start capability

All responsible sources and authorized distributors who can provide the new equipment, brand name 4704390, Masterclave 20 and 4702831, VC-Peristaltic Pump PMi manufactured by bioMérieux, Inc may submit a capability statement, proposal, or quotation, which shall be considered by the agency. Any concerns with this intent to Sole Source may be submitted for consideration by the Government to Contracting Officer, Lorena Cruz, at lorena.cruz.civ@health.mil and Contract Specialist, Cotrena Brown-Johnson at cotrena.y.brownjohnson.mil@health.mil with the Notice ID number referenced in the subject line.