The General Services Administration has cleared a blanket purchasing channel for agencies to procure supplies, equipment and services from commercial vendors.
GSA said Thursday it has issued a notice authorizing the Maintenance, Repair and Operations purchase channel for hardware, tools, paints, adhesives and sealants.
“Shopping for our customers will be made easier by minimizing product duplication and streamlining the number of contractors offering these products,†said Tom Sharpe, commissioner of GSA’s federal acquisition service.
“We’re excited to begin to offer federal agencies the ability to purchase equipment and supply products at lower prices,†Sharpe added.
Contractors have one month to offer discounted products and services to federal agencies under the blanket purchase agreements.
GSA looks to save $16 million during the first year of the MRO purchase channel as prices are 12 percent lower than the standard pricing.
