Opportunity
University of Iowa Ionwave #18470
Award for Nationally Branded Food Franchise and Foodservice Equipment at Iowa Memorial Union
Posted
July 11, 2025
Respond By
August 07, 2025
Identifier
18470
NAICS
722310, 722513, 541410, 236220
The University of Iowa is undertaking a major renovation of the Iowa Memorial Union (IMU) and has awarded a contract for a nationally branded food franchise operation within the facility. - Government Buyer: - University of Iowa, Purchasing Department, Facilities Management, and Operations - OEMs and Vendors: - Potbelly Sandwich Works (awarded franchise) - Products and Services Requested: - Nationally branded Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) franchise operation (approx. 1,400 sq ft) - Menu must include breakfast, lunch, dinner, gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, and allergen-friendly options - Limited-Time-Offers and made-to-order menu items - If beverages are offered, must use Coca-Cola branded products - Foodservice equipment and facility modifications: - Walk-in freezer (part number: 23418000) - Foodservice equipment plans for multiple floors (FS100, FS101, FS102) - Dedicated concept spaces for pizza and sushi (approx. 600 sq ft each) - Bakery, cold and dry storage, hot production area, catering support, laundry, and additional kitchen equipment - Professional services: - Design, contractor, and engineering support for equipment installation and space optimization - Safety assessments and performance monitoring - Unique or Notable Requirements: - Franchise must adhere to brand standards and collaborate with university designers and contractors - Staff training and marketing support required - Franchisee must submit audited financials, detailed proposals, and franchise/license agreements - Intellectual property rights assigned to the University; compliance with federal mandates and insurance requirements - Agreement includes a five-year term from opening, with options to renew - Place of Performance: - Iowa Memorial Union (IMU), 125 N Madison Street, Iowa City, IA - University of Iowa campus, Iowa City, IA
Description
The University of Iowa is seeking qualified suppliers to provide nationally branded food franchise or licensee operations within the Iowa Memorial Union (IMU), the university's student union. The opportunity involves offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus with options including gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian choices, and requires adherence to brand standards and collaboration with university designers and contractors. The agreement is expected to begin around January 1, 2026, with a financial term of five years from the concept opening, including options for renewal. Suppliers must submit detailed proposals, audited financial statements, and licenses or franchise agreements via the eBid system by August 7, 2025.