In October 2008, AMS met with the National Chicken Council (NCC) to discuss support of the broiler industry through a bonus buy (surplus removal) of various broiler products to be distributed to USDA food assistance program recipients. NCC approached AMS because of their concern with the enormous financial losses the broiler industry is currently experiencing. Currently, broiler companies are experiencing major financial losses due to negative margins as a result of increased cost of production. A bonus buy (surplus removal) of broilers (chicken) and broiler products will provide a much-needed source of high-quality protein to recipients of Federal food assistance programs, will provide immediate direct market support to the U.S. domestic broiler industry, and will assist in alleviating depressed market conditions for this industry.

All potential offerors All potential offerors are advised that this solicitation includes the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) clause at 48 C.F.R. 52.212-4 (Feb 2007) for Commercial Items. This clause requires all contractors doing business with the Federal Government to be registered in the Central Contractor Registration (CCR) database. Offerors should include their Data Universal Number System (DUNS) number in their offers. The Contracting Officer will verify registration in the CCR database prior to award by entering the potential awardees' DUNS number into the CCR database. As of January 1, 2005, all potential offerors are required to complete the annual representations and certifications electronically via the On-line Representations and Certifications Applications (ORCA), which should be completed at http://orca.bpn.gov. This information is included in this solicitation in the provision FAR 52.212-1 (Jun 2008) Instructions to Offerors-Commercial Items. Failure to complete either of these registration procedures outlined in this solicitation may result in elimination from consideration for award.

Proposals shall be received on or before the deadline of December 8, 2008, 1:00 pm, Eastern Standard Time, via fax to (202) 720-5871, or e-mail to the Contract Specialist, Valerie Dinkel at [email protected].  Award will be made by January 7, 2009.