University Bookstore Management and Operations

TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-CORPUS CHRISTI
PURCHASING DEPARTMENT
6300 OCEAN DRIVE
CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78412
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
RFP Number:
TAMU-CC-RFP-26-0003
University Bookstore Management and Operations
PROPOSAL MUST BE RECEIVED BEFORE:
2:00 p.m. Central Time on 05/26/2026
Show RFP Number, Opening Date and Time on Return Envelope
NOTE: PROPOSAL must be time stamped at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Purchasing Department
before the hour and date specified for receipt of proposal.
Pursuant to the Provisions of Texas Government Code Title 10 Subtitle D Chapter 2156.121 - 2156.127, General Services
Act rules and regulations adopted there under, sealed proposals will be received until the date and time established for
receipt. After receipt, only the names of proposers will be made public. Prices and other proposal details will only be
divulged after the award, if one is made.
REFER INQUIRIES TO:
Will Hobart, Director of Procurement & Disbursements
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi
Procurement & Disbursements Department
Phone Number: 361-825-2616
Email: will.hobart@tamucc.edu

TAMU-CC-RFP-26-0003
Table of Contents
SECTION 1. General 3
SECTION 2. Statement of Work/Qualifications 5
SECTION 3. Proposal Information 17
SECTION 4. General Terms and Conditions 22
SECTION 5. Execution of Proposal 39
SECTION 6. Pricing and Delivery Schedule 40
SECTION 7. Respondent's Questionnaire 41
SECTION 8. References 42
ATTACHMENT A: HUB SUBCONTRACTING PLAN
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SECTION I
GENERAL
1.1 SCOPE. Texas A&M University Corpus Christi (moving forward will be referred to as
"University") soliciting competitive responses to this Request for Proposal ("RFP") for the
University Bookstore Management and Operations ("Bookstore"). The University will engage
in the services of an outside vendor as an independent contractor to provide the stated services.
The selected vendor must demonstrate competence in providing these services and must have
the qualifications necessary to perform the services outlined in this RFP. This RFP provides
sufficient information for interested parties to prepare and submit proposals for consideration
by the University.
No Guarantee of Volume. The State of Texas does not guarantee any specific
amount of compensation, volume, minimum, or maximum amount of services
under this solicitation and resulting contract.
1.2 CONTRACT TERM. The term of each of the executed contracts will be for an initial term of
five (5) years ("initial term") from the effective date(s). After the initial term, the contracts
may be extended, at the discretion of each university, for up to five (5) additional one-year
periods ("renewal terms"). Any renewal terms shall be in effect upon mutual agreement by the
parties, to be evidenced in writing at least 60 days prior to the expiration of the initial or then
current renewal term.
1.3 CONTRACT TRANSITION. If applicable, the transition of contract services shall
commence upon awarding of the contract by the University. The Contractor will be expected
to attend meetings as reasonably required by the University to assist in the preparation for the
takeover of operations, if applicable.
1.4 CONTRACT EXTENSION. The University shall give the Contractor written notice of its
intent to extend no less than ninety (90) days prior to the expiration of the Contract, and if the
University elects to extend, any proposed changes in Contract terms shall be specified in
writing as part of the written notice. The Contractor shall have thirty-(30) days from the date of
receipt of this written notice to accept or take exception to any of the proposed renewal terms.
The exceptions shall be negotiated between the University and the Contractor during, the
following thirty (30) days. Upon mutual agreement of the parties concerning extension terms,
the Contractor shall sign the extension notice and send it back to the University. If no
agreement can be reached, the Contract shall terminate. In the event of termination, the
contractor shall continue services under the original contract terms until a new contractor can
be identified. In the event of Contract extension, the Contractor will be required to provide
complete and current submittals prior to each extension, including, but not necessarily limited
to, insurance certificates and financial statements.
1.5 COMPENSATION. The Respondent will provide a schedule of compensation detailing the
breakout of all pricing to include royalties and payments to the University as well as payments
to the vendor.
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1.6 DEFINITIONS. For purposes of this RFP, the following definitions apply:
(a) Addendum- An addition or supplement to a solicitation document. Also, a modification in
the specifications issued by University. Addenda are issued prior to the proposal opening
date.
(b) Award- The act of accepting a bid, proposal or offer; thereby resulting in a Contract
between the parties.
(c) Best and Final Offer (BAFO)- The result of final negotiations with responsive vendors
during the RFP process.
(d) Contract- A written document referring to promises for which the law establishes
enforceable duties and remedies between a minimum of two (2) parties. Also, the contract
awarded as a result of this RFP and all exhibits thereto, this RFP, any addenda issued in
conjunction with this RFP, the Vendor's proposal, any BAFO and the subsequent
submission by Vendor, shall all be fully incorporated therein as exhibits.
(e) Proposal- an offer to contract submitted by a Respondent in response to the RFP.
(f) Request for Proposal (RFP)- A formal solicitation requesting submittal of a proposal in
response to the required scope of services that usually includes some form of a cost
proposal.
(g) Respondent- The individual, partnership, corporation, or other entity that submits a
response to this RFP.
(h) University- refers to Texas A&M Corpus Christi (TAMUCC)
(i) Vendor- A supplier of goods and/or services that is awarded and enters into contract with
the University.
1.7 Important Notice - VetHUB Subcontracting Plan (HSP) is Required: Pursuant to Texas
Administrative Code (TAC), Sections 111.13 and 111.14, TAMU-CC has determined that
subcontracting opportunities are probable for this RFP. Accordingly, a completed VetHUB
Subcontracting Plan (HSP) is required to be included with any proposal submitted in response
to this RFP. If you have any questions regarding these requirements, contact Ruben Gonzalez,
HUB Coordinator at (361) 825-5822.
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SECTION II
STATEMENT OF WORK
2.1 Service Requirements. Services shall include, but are not limited to, the requirements
contained in this RFP. Services set forth that contain the words "must" or "shall" are
mandatory and must be provided as specified with no alteration, modification, or exception.
Services set forth that contain the words "may" or "can" allow Respondents to offer
alternatives to the manner in which the services are provided. The requested services and
corresponding deliverables are as follows:
2.2 Background. Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi (TAMUCC) is an expanding, doctoral-
granting university with a growing research agenda in the Texas A&M University System. The
university is committed to preparing graduates for lifelong learning and responsible citizenship
in the global community. We are dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, creative
activity. and service. Our supportive, multicultural learning community provides
undergraduate and graduate students with a challenging educational exper
ience throug
h residential, distance learning and international programs. The university's federal designation
as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) provides a foundation for closing educational gaps,
while its strategic location on the Gulf and on the cultural border with Latin America provides
a basis for gaining national and international prominence.
TAMUCC offers more than 80 degree programs and student enrollment exceeds 10,000. There
are approximately 2,800 total active employees. More information about the university can be
found on our web pages, including information about our programs and our mission and
strategic plan.
2.3 Specifications. The scope of work for this Request for Proposal includes the management and
operations of the bookstores at Texas A&M Corpus Christi (TAMUCC) campus. It is the
responsibility of the vendor to furnish management, labor, equipment, fixtures, goods, and
supplies necessary. Bookstores should be full-service and have a professional, modern, and
inviting environment while providing maximum benefit to the University in terms of service to
students, faculty, staff, visitors, and alumni.
2.4 Bookstore Information. Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi's bookstore is located on the
first floor of the University Center building on the Island University's main campus. The
bookstore contains approximately 7,500 square feet of space including office, retail,
convenience store and storage space. The bookstore was renovated during the 2022 Fiscal
Year. Currently, the bookstore employs two (2) full-time and part-time employees as needed.
During peak periods the part-time employee count is increased by an additional 12 to 18
temporary employees. TAMUCC has a C-Store adjacent to the Bookstore.
Current University Bookstore Hours of Operation
Monday - Thursday 8am to 5pm
Friday - 8 am to 4 pm
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed
*Hours subject to change during holidays and rush periods.
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Utilities and Equipment
Metered separately: Yes
Existing fixtures convey: Yes
POS/Registers convey: No
2.5 Vendor Operations. Vendor will manage and operate, aside from the on-campus bookstores:
(a) University online bookstore;
(b) The retail/general merchandise operation to sell University-branded and licensed
memorabilia and clothing, graduation supplies, educational materials/supplies, and snacks
and drinks;
(c) Convenience Items
2.6 Exclusivity. Vendor will have exclusive rights on the University campuses to:
(a) Sell and rent new and used textbooks;
(b) Sell and rent electronic textbooks;
(c) Sell course packs, trade books required for courses, other educational materials and
supplies, study aids (published or electronic);
(d) Sell and/or rent academic regalia for graduation ceremonies;
(e) Conduct a used book buyback program;
(f) Access program for courseware
2.7 Convenience Store Items. Vendor will have the ability, as desired for by the campus, to sell
convenience store items. This will be under a non-exclusive license as University may has
agreements in place with other vendors for the sale of convenience store items.
2.8 Other Agreements. The University reserves the right to enter into or continue agreements
allowing the sale of promotional items, clothing and other products (excluding course
materials) elsewhere on campus or through affiliated websites. This includes branded
merchandise sold through various athletic and alumni venues including stadium and internet
sales outlets.
2.9 Proposal Content. Vendors must provide specific detailed information regarding each of the
following in their proposal:
(a) Textbooks - System for obtaining titles, publishers, and quantities from the University
faculty.
(b) System of refunds, returns, rentals, and a buy-back policy based on books sold, not on
what textbooks will be used the following semester. Respondent must provide details of
buyback system.
(c) eBooks - Availability of titles, sale and rental system, and compatibility on different
devices.
(d) Information on any programs available related to implementing a flat-price textbook rental
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program for textbooks and eBooks.
(e) Custom Publishing Services - To include the development of course packs for faculty
members, securing the appropriate copyright clearances, printing and binding of course
packs, and distribution and sale of the course packs in the bookstore. Complimentary desk
copies of course packs must be provided to faculty members. The University reserves the
right to provide printing services and binding of course packs upon notification to Vendor.
(f) Book Order Services - For students, faculty, and staff; vendor shall make every effort to
obtain the earliest possible delivery of such books.
(g) Merchandise - Provide categories to be added for sale in the Bookstore.
(h) Food and Beverages - The University currently have independent vending, beverage, and
food service agreements. Vendor shall have the right to carry convenience-store type
items and run the cafe, as mentioned herein, within the bookstore area with prior approval
of the University.
(i) Access Program Capabilities- Vendor shall be able to provide an access program to
students.
2.10 Financial Offerings. The ability to partner with vendors and work together to reinvest in our
University is of great importance. Respondents should include financial incentives for each
year of the Contract. Information should be provided for each incentive included in the
proposal. University will review additional considerations/benefits and programs presented in
the proposals. Respondents will be willing to partner with other on campus divisions and
departments such as Athletics, Alumni, and Student Engagement.
(a) Respondents
(b) should provide details regarding, but not limited to:
(1) An annual exclusivity fee provided to the campus for the ability to provide exclusive
bookstore services.
(2) A one-time signing bonus, to be used at University discretion, upon contract
execution.
(3) Commissions, royalties and other considerations.
(b) Revenues from all sales will be commissionable. Propose a commission percentage based
on gross sales on all sales categories.
(c) Respondent must specify a compensation schedule in the proposal, with a minimum
annual guarantee for each year of the contract. The annual commission paid will be the
guaranteed amount or the commission payment due based on sales, whichever is greater.
(d) If compensation is to be broken down by product categories, provide a detailed
explanation of the compensation by category.
(e) Respondent must specify any additional considerations or programs, such as rent
payment for used space, scholarship opportunities for students, or other benefits.
(f) The University is interested in the vendor becoming a sponsor of the annual employee
enrichment/development day at each university. Provide cash amount committed for
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consideration.
(g) Provide an annual amount designated for student scholarships to be awarded at the
discretion of the University.
(h) Support University Athletics with courseware and books scholarships for athletes,
sponsorship and in-kind donations in exchange for marking and merchandise concession
stands at athletics events.
(i) Provider may request exclusive rights to sell at athletic events provided that they pay a
sponsorship fee.
2.11 Capital Investment Funding.
(a) Respondents must provide a proposal outlining the financial commitment of capital
outlay dollars to support remodeling, expansion, or new construction of the bookstore
facilities at each University. The vendor must relate any plans for the renovation of the
bookstore over the life of the contract, to include buildings, fixtures, and equipment.
Each University will be responsible for the planning and implementation of any
construction or renovation projects unless otherwise agreed to in writing.
(b) Respondents should provide an amortization schedule that reflects such investment.
However, the amortization schedule should not exceed the initial five year term of the
contract. University reserves the exclusive right to decline this proposal option.
2.12 Employees. Respondents shall provide a staffing proposal to identify all bookstore positions
with details of which positions would be available to current University bookstore employees.
The Respondent must recognize that satisfactory public relations with students, faculty, staff,
and visitors to the University campus is an important part of the bookstore operations.
Respondents must provide in their proposals provisions covering service to customers,
including information on training programs which impact customer
service.
The University expects selected vendor to employ as many students as possible for available
positions. Recruitment, salary, and conditions of employment shall be in kept with policies of
employment for student workers in other comparable campus jobs. First priority for part-time
employment must be given to registered University students.
With the University's commitments to student learning through the student employment
program, the selected vendor is encouraged to develop and implement a student-manager
program that includes a management-training program and opportunities for academic credit
internships. Respondents should provide details of such program.
2.13 Merchandise Policy. The University reserves the right to recommend merchandise to be sold
in the campus bookstores and also reserves the right to request removal of merchandise for sale
which may be considered offensive or inappropriate.
Selected vendor will be asked to stock at least one (1) copy of all books by University authors.
2.14 Merchandise Inventory. The University desires to sell to the selected vendor the current
bookstore inventory. A complete inventory count will be completed to determine inventory
cost. Respondents are requested to indicate acceptance of the inventory at cost for inventory
items with present value at or above cost. Respondents are requested to offer an alternative
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option for inventory items with present value below cost.
2.15 Transition Plan. To ensure a smooth transition and uninterrupted service of current university
bookstore operations, respondents must submit a detailed transition plan as a part of the
proposal.
2.16 Outstanding Credits. The current bookstore vendor may desire to sell to the selected vendor
any and all unused credits at full value. Respondents are requested to indicate acceptance of
credit purchase or to offer an alternative option.
2.17 Non-Competition. The respondents must indicate in the proposal a statement of non-
competition with university bookstore. The vendor must agree not to operate a bookstore,
business selling textbooks in competition with the University for at least five (5) years
following the termination or expiration of any contract and any renewals thereof.
2.18 Payment Methods Accepted. Vendors must minimally accept from customers the following
forms of payment: cash, major credit cards, personal checks, declining balance cards,
scholarships and financial aid billing, and the University sponsored debit cards. The selected
vendor must also have the capability to accommodate charge sales for student emergency book
loans. Payments for such charges shall be guaranteed by the University and be payable within
30 days.
The selected vendor must be able to coordinate to allow third party billing to provide textbook
purchases to students. An automated process is desirable. The vendor will be responsible for
the costs associated with automation and connection to the University' One Card programs.
2.19 Commitment to Education. As an institution of higher education, the University is committed
to the mission. Respondents shall identify programs and/or actions which demonstrate the
commitment to education. Include a listing of institutions, including contact information where
such programs are/were in effect.
2.20 Sustainability Plan. University is looking to consistently expand green practices that are more
environmentally sensitive and energy efficient. Respondents shall specify in the proposal a
sustainability plan that will continue to conserve resources and energy and promote waste
reduction and pollution prevention on the campus.
2.21 Marketing and Advertising. The vendor must actively and aggressively market at the
bookstore. Respondents should submit sample campaigns or plans and literature regarding
marketing and advertising as part of the proposal. Must be willing to work directly with
University Marketing to collaborate to push the Universities Voice in all Marketing materials.
2.22 Other Considerations. The Respondents shall not regard this RFP as restrictive so far as the
proposal is concerned. The University is interested in vendor participation in both current and
proposed programs and projects.
The Respondent shall indicate in the proposal how and when the University could expect
vendor participation in any newly proposed programs.
Respondents should provide detailed information related to inclusive access programs and
Open Educational Resources (OER) including financial incentives for faculty course
development.
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Proposal must include the ability of the vendor to accept faculty textbook adoptions beyond the
next semester, automated capability to integrate courses with textbooks and online book
programs including commitment to ADA accessible features.
2.23 Vendor Responsibilities.
(a) Reporting.
(1) Vendor shall provide detailed sales reports to University representative, as decided by
University, on a monthly basis. Reports should show sales by category, revenues
earned, commissions earned, at a minimum. Respondents should include a sample
report with their proposal. Sales should be shown for the month prior and year - to -
date.
(2) Vendor shall provide monthly HUB Subcontracting PARs to each University
representative. The report shall include the vendor identification number, name, and
amount paid to subcontractors under the contract, if subcontractors are used.
(3) Vendor shall report ACH deposits, if applicable, to the University representative
when they are initiated.
(4) University may work with vendor to request additional information.
(b) Use of University One-Card. The selected vendor will be required to utilize each
University's one card program at all retail locations, as applicable. The programs must
utilize the tracking of the declining-balance value feature. The University is responsible
for the cost of issuing the One Card (campus identification card) to students, faculty,
staff, tenants, and vendors, as applicable.
Vendor shall provide all card system compatible point-of-sale (POS) terminals, readers,
printers, and appropriate accessories necessary for the performance of the required
services and vendor's other duties and obligations under the terms of the contract.
If vendor management staff is not acquainted with the one card program/system,
managers and employees shall, at vendor's expense, attend campus-provided training
prior to commencement of the contract.
University reserves the right to charge a transaction fee of 1.5% on all purchases using
the University's one card system to offset the cost of operations.
(c) Hours of Operations. To ensure proper and adequate support for each University's
academic mission and to meet student needs, the vendor shall be prepared to maintain an
operating schedule in accordance with the official calendar of each University. Bookstore
hours will be extended during each registration period, start of semester, during final
exam periods, and at other times as determined necessary by University administration.
See Attachment C for each University's current hours of operation. Changes to operating
hours must be approved by University representative.
(d) Financial Records. The vendor will generate, using University bookstore generally
accepted accounting standards and principles, monthly financial statements for the
bookstore contracted operations. A copy of such statements showing revenue earned and
information, as stated in Section 3.1 herein, shall be furnished to the University
representative by the twentieth (20th) of each month.
The vendor shall keep records pertaining to contracted bookstore operations on file for a
period of at least seven (7) years from the end of t
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