Specifications include, but are not limited to: Overview The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) intends to award contract(s) to provide vending machine services to various Rest Areas. The Contractor will provide vending services in a manner which will improve customer perception, participation, and acceptance of vending services. Service A commitment to supply, install, fill, service and maintain vending equipment is required. Machines must be stocked regularly with unexpired products, including during summer months, to ensure sufficient products are available. The frequency of filling vending machines must keep up with the demand for the products. Vending The Contractor, by and through its representatives, agents, subcontractors, or independent contractors, will be responsible for all products, equipment, service, and revenue. Any use of existing equipment must be pre-approved by MDT. Contractor will provide to MDT a list of the products used to fill the vending machines. Provide a full-line vending service that offers non-perishable quality food and beverages only. Alcohol and Tobacco products will not be included in available products. MDT reserves the right to request specific products to be offered in vending machines on its premises. No guarantees of volume or purchases are offered. MDT will provide feedback to Contractor of consumers requests for different products. Whenever possible, Contractor will change the product mix to accommodate those consumer requests. Vending Equipment Offeror shall commit to supply, install, service and maintain all new, state of the-art vending equipment at no cost to MDT and agrees to provide equipment upgrades such as labels, front facing, dollar bill validators, bill changers, ID card technology, credit cards etc. Vending machine location / placement will be determined and authorized by MDT. Any use of existing equipment must be approved by MDT. Power to the vending machines must fit the present configuration at each location. The Contractor will not be charged for the power consumed by the machines. Vending machines must accept any combination of nickels, dimes, quarters and dollar coins, bills, and credit cards, if network connectivity is available. Any changes to equipment, or other changes to the nature of the service, require two (2) weeks’ advanced written notice to MDT. MDT reserves the option to accept the change or request further discussion of options. All machines must bear a sticker or label in a highly visible location that identifies the Contractor’s name and customer service telephone number to call for services, lost money, and other complaints and problems. The Contractor shall identify the person/position that is responsible for refunds. Contractor agrees to reimburse all money lost in the machines that are the result of machine malfunction through an easy and efficient process to the customer. The Contractor shall maintain, clean and service the machines and equipment as required to meet all State laws and regulations, and to MDT’s satisfaction. Machines shall be serviced on a frequent and regular basis to ensure fresh product and to limit stock outages. All products shall be removed and replaced by the date their freshness dating expires, as indicated by the manufacturers’ date stamped on the package. Contractor shall respond to all service requests within 24 hours of notification. The Contractor shall provide a list of service contact names with phone numbers for this purpose and keep it updated. Upon commencement of an agreement, Contractor shall install equipment approved by MDT in all buildings where vending is requested. All machines shall be installed by the Contractor at no charge to MDT. Vending machines shall remain the sole and exclusive property of the Contractor. The Contractor shall have the responsibility for the security of the machines and cost of repairs and/or loss due to damage or acts of vandalism. Within 14 days of notice by MDT, Contractor will remove or move vending machines. The following Rest Area locations are included in this Scope of Services.
