Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to procure printing services for the Sol Plaatje 150 and Love the Post Box stamps as part of the 2026 Stamp Program for the Philately Department of the South African Post Office Limited. The project aims to produce high-quality pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) postage stamps, stamp sheets, booklets, and related display materials that meet specified design, security, and quality standards.

Scope

The scope includes:

• Design, printing, and production of various stamp formats including mini-booklets, stamp sheets, and display cards.
• Application of metallic or pigmented foil stamping on stamps.
• Provision of proofs, colour matching, and quality assurance.
• Packaging, labelling, and secure transportation of printed stamps and related materials.
• Implementation of security measures during production, storage, and delivery to prevent tampering and loss.
• Compliance with specifications outlined in relevant standards and annexures.

Technical Requirements

The technical specifications include:

• Use of Pressure Sensitive Adhesive (PSA) in stamp sheet format suitable for South African printers, including GPW.
• Stamp sizes: single stamps measuring 49 mm x 35 mm, with acceptable variance of 1% in axes.
• Paper quality and tools as detailed in Annex A, with ISO 9000 accreditation for paper suppliers.
• Print quantities:
• Sol Plaatje 150: 30,000 mini-booklets (2 stamps each), 45,000 stamp sheets (4 stamps each).
• Love the Post Box: 25,000 booklets (10 stamps each).
• Design features including artwork placement, colour matching, and security features such as metallic foil stamping.
• Provision of proofs (including colour proofs and machine proofs) for approval prior to mass production.
• Packaging in shrink-wrapped boxes, cartons, and pallets with tamper-evident seals, suitable for air or sea freight.
• Security measures including restricted access, CCTV, alarm systems, secure storage, and waste disposal protocols.
• Return of artwork and compliance with security and quality standards.

Skills Requirements

The successful bidder must demonstrate:

• Proficiency in printing high-quality postage stamps and related philatelic materials.
• Experience with security printing and implementing anti-tampering measures.
• Capability to produce proofs, colour matching, and quality assurance documentation.
• Ability to handle secure packaging, transportation, and storage in compliance with security protocols.
• ISO 9000 accreditation for paper suppliers and adherence to relevant standards (e.g., SAPO - L – 0051).
• Capacity to manage large print runs with precise quality control and timely delivery.
• Effective security procedures and facilities for safeguarding sensitive materials throughout the production process.