Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to appoint two (2) service providers responsible for supplying and delivering fresh vegetables to the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) at the National Zoological Garden (NZG) in Pretoria. The service providers will ensure the provision of high-quality vegetables to meet the nutritional requirements of the captive animals, as prescribed by qualified animal nutritionists or wildlife veterinarians. The contract aims to facilitate a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective supply over a period of three years, with a rotational usage to ensure equitable distribution of expenditure among the selected providers.

Scope

The scope includes:

• Supplying and delivering a specified list of fresh vegetables and pre-cut vegetables as detailed in the tender (e.g., potatoes, sweet potatoes, cauliflower, peppers, cabbage, gem squash, onions, pumpkin, tomatoes, spinach, celery, broccoli, eggplant, lettuce, parsley, baby marrow, and pre-cut vegetables).
• Deliveries are to be made as and when required, based on operational needs, without guaranteed minimum quantities.
• Delivery to the NZG Pretoria campus, with adherence to specified packaging, quality, and transportation standards to maintain freshness and quality.
• Provision of supporting documentation such as reference letters, proof of previous supply contracts, and compliance with tax and legal requirements.
• Participation in negotiations to standardize pricing and ensure fair distribution of work among the successful providers.

Technical Requirements

The technical requirements include:

• Provision of fresh, high-quality vegetables that meet specified standards, free from contamination, bird droppings, dust, and exhaust fumes.
• Proper packaging to prevent damage during transportation, including covering with tear-proof tarpaulins or enclosed transport.
• Timely delivery within 24 hours of order placement, with immediate notification of any delays.
• Delivery to designated stores at the NZG, with both delivery notes and signed acknowledgment of receipt.
• Compliance with all health, safety, hygiene, and quality standards as specified in the tender documentation.
• Submission of mandatory documents such as tax compliance certificates, reference letters, and proof of previous relevant contracts.

Skills Requirements

The skills and capabilities required from bidders include:

• Experience in supplying fresh vegetables to institutional or large-scale clients, demonstrated through appointment letters or reference letters for at least five (5) years.
• Proven ability to deliver high-quality produce consistently, adhering to specified standards and delivery schedules.
• Financial stability evidenced by bank ratings or similar financial capacity documentation.
• Capability to develop and implement contingency plans to manage shortages, strikes, or staff absences, ensuring uninterrupted supply.
• Compliance with legal, tax, and regulatory requirements, including valid tax clearance and registration with relevant authorities.
• Ability to participate in negotiations and adhere to contractual terms, including pricing and service level agreements.