499-24-3-6710-0102 - Supply - Digital Lensmeter - VISN

This is a Notice of Intent published in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 5.101(a)(1) requiring the dissemination of information regarding proposed contract actions. This Notice of Intent is for a proposed award of a sole source, brand name only, firm-fixed price contract under the authority of 41 U.S.C. 3304(a)(1), as implemented by FAR 13.106-1(b) - Only One Responsible Source and No Other Supplies or Service Will Satisfy Agency Requirements. It is not a request for competitive quotes.

The Department of Veterans Affairs, Network Contracting Office 23 intends to award a sole source, brand name only, firm-fixed price contract to PROAIM Americas to provide preventative maintenance services for Zeiss Visulens 550 Lensmeter equipment to support the VISN 23 VA Health Care System, Eagan, MN 55121. The Zeiss Visulens 550 Lensmeter equipment is proprietary equipment that may only be serviced by the Original Equipment Manufacturer, Carl Zeiss.

Carl Zeiss is the only known firm able to provide maintenance services for this proprietary equipment. The VA requires Zeiss Visulens 550 Lensmeter equipment maintenance services in accordance with 41 U.S.C. 3304(a)(1), as implemented by FAR 13.106-1(b) - Only One Responsible Source and No Other Supplies or Service Will Satisfy Agency Requirements because the proprietary repair services are unique to Carl Zeiss.

Market research revealed that Carl Zeiss is the only manufacturer that can provide the required repairs for the equipment. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this requirement is 339112 and the service code is J065. While this synopsis does not constitute a solicitation, interested vendors may identify their interest and capability to satisfy the requirement. All responsible sources may submit a capability statement, proposal, or quotation which shall be considered by the agency.

The Government understands that PROAIM Americas is the only vendor that can provide the requested services. However, vendors that believe they can provide the capabilities required to fully meet the Government's requirement may submit information in writing to Alberta.Mickells@va.gov by July 17, 2024. An OEM letter must be included to be considered. Such documentation will be reviewed solely for the purpose of determining whether or not to conduct the procurement on a competitive basis. A determination not to compete this requirement, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the discretion of the Government.