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Notice of Intent: The USDA, ARS, SEA intends to award a sole source procurement to Leica Microsystems, 10 Parkway North, Deerfield, IL 60015 as they are the sole source for these types of products/services pursuant to the authority of 41 U.S.C. 253(c)(l ) and FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(i) Only One Responsible Source and No Other Supplies or Services Will Satisfy Agency Requirements.

The award will be to purchase the following product/services:

The USDA ARS, Fayetteville, AR requires an annual service contract for a Leica - Confocal Stellaris microscope.

PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES:

Contract will be for the period of 11/24/2022-11/23/2023 (Base) Service and scientific expertise pertaining to the Leica Stellaris confocal microscope systems (including the Leica Stellaris 5); technical training and expertise using Leica Stellaris confocal microscope systems in real-world applications and experiments with ability to provide on-site visit for scientific training and discussion of experimental setup and design pertaining to use of the Stellaris 5 confocal system; technical training and expertise on Leica Stellaris part replacement and microscope system servicing. Option period of 11/24/23-11/23/24 and 11/24/24-11/23/25 will also be included.

The original warranty purchased on the Leica Stellaris 5 confocal microscopy system was from Leica Microsystems. This involved installation, setup, training, and provision of maintenance service was from Leica Microsystems employees that are specifically certified by the company to perform these tasks. Purchase of the warranty extension for the anticipated performance period is critical for continuation of these services, especially training and maintenance services. Failure to purchase the warranty extension from Leica Microsystems will sever our ability to receive continued technical on-site support and training, as well as may cause the voiding of equipment related warranty for parts, repairs, and services.

The Government intends to award a firm fixed price Purchase Order on or around November 22, 2022. This Notice of lntent is not considered a Request for Quotation (RFQ) nor is it a Request for Proposals (RFP). No solicitation document is available and telephone requests will not be honored. Interested persons may identify their interest and capability to respond to this requirement. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed contract based on responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. The Government will consider all responses received by 4:00 PM central time, November 21, 2022. Information received will be considered solely for determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement. Inquiries will only be accepted via email to the points of contact listed:

Place of Performance:

USDA, ARS, SEA, PPPSRU

UNIV ARK, O-303 POSC

FAYETTEVILLE, AR 72701

Primary Point of Contact:

Shalunda S. Mix, Contract Specialist

shalunda.mix@usda.gov