Magazine Printing Services

Background
The Washington State Fruit Commission (WSFC) is issuing this Competitive Solicitation to procure Magazine Printing Services for the Good Fruit Grower magazine (GFG), a semi-monthly trade tabloid published since 1946. The magazine covers the tree fruit, grape, and blueberry industries and is distributed to fruit growers across all 50 states and approximately three dozen countries. The WSFC aims to promote Washington's soft tree fruits and stabilize the industry through effective marketing and distribution.

Work Details
The contractor must provide high-quality commercial printing services for the Good Fruit Grower magazine, which publishes 17 issues per year. Key requirements include:
- Average press runs of 10,600 copies per issue.
- Printing specifications: saddle-stitched, tab formatted, four-color throughout on 60# #3 gloss coated stock (self-cover).
- Issues will have an average page count of 36 to 48 pages, with the smallest issue being 36 pages and the largest averaging 96 pages.
- The contractor must handle inserts and special mailings as needed.
- Provide prepress technical information at no additional cost, including evaluation and preflight checks of pages.
- Ensure timely mailing of magazines to subscribers in the U.S., Canada, and internationally (approximately 10,300 subscribers). The contractor must maintain necessary USPS permits.

Period of Performance
The contract term commences on August 6, 2025, and ends on September 30, 2027. There is an option to renew annually for two additional years upon mutual agreement.

Place of Performance
The printing services must be performed by a company based in the United States with operations in Washington state or Oregon. Preference will be given to companies within a four-hour drive from Yakima, Washington.

Bidder Requirements
Bidders must be U.S.-based companies with printing operations in Washington or Oregon. All work must be performed solely by the awarded contractor without subcontracting unless consented by WSFC. Bidders must provide confirmation of paper supply availability by October 1, 2025. Additional requirements include compliance with civil rights laws and regulations, maintaining necessary licenses and permits, and meeting specific performance standards outlined in the solicitation.