26-3920 Professional Catering Services RFQ

The City of North Little Rock, Arkansas is requesting qualification proposals from professional catering service providers for the 2026 calendar year. The city aims to qualify and contract with multiple suppliers who can provide a variety of menus, including box lunches, breakfast, buffets, receptions, and plated meals. The selected caterers, referred to as "Preferred Caterers," will be permitted to provide catering and food services at the North Little Rock Event Center. The contract will begin on January 1, 2026, and terminate on December 31, 2026. The Preferred Caterers will be responsible for: * Providing catering and food services for events at the Premises * Maintaining a clean and safe kitchen facility * Obtaining necessary licenses and permits * Providing equipment and supplies * Maintaining a professional and experienced workforce * Following access protocols and restrictions * Paying a per-plate fee or percentage of revenue to the City The proposal requirements include: * A cover letter with company information, proof of insurance, and permits * A completed questionnaire * Evidence of authority to do business in Arkansas and the City of North Little Rock * Evidence of five years or more of successful off-site premise catering * Per-plate fee for catered events The questionnaire requires information on: * Business name and contact information * Ability to handle multiple requests and online ordering * Equipment and supplies provided * Capacity to serve and replenish food during events * Limitations on event capacity and staffing * Custom ordering and dietary requirements * Menus and pricing for various services Proposals must be submitted in triplicate, and failure to fill out and sign the request for qualification sheet will result in rejection of the response. The City reserves the right to award contracts to multiple companies and to add or remove companies from the list of Preferred Caterers during the contract period.