2026 Holiday Luncheon

The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) is seeking a qualified catering contractor to plan, coordinate, and execute a three‑day Holiday Luncheon for approximately 1,300 employees across three locations and seven service assignments. The contractor must provide a standardized menu (minimum two meat entrees, one vegetarian entrée, three sides, one salad, two desserts, two beverages) with gluten‑free and allergen information, conduct a tasting for up to ten COTA staff, and deliver full‑service catering including off‑site food preparation, transportation, setup, staffing, replenishment, breakdown, and cleanup. All labor, supervision, equipment, disposable supplies, and transportation are the contractor’s responsibility; COTA will supply tables and electricity. Proposals must include qualifications, references, a detailed event execution and staffing plan, and a fixed‑price lump‑sum bid covering the entire December 9‑11, 2026 event. The contract is firm‑fixed‑price, with payment due within seven business days after event completion. • Event dates: December 9‑11, 2026 (≈1,300 meals) • Multiple simultaneous service locations (three facilities, seven assignments) • Required menu composition and dietary accommodations • Mandatory pre‑event walkthrough and post‑event invoicing • Fixed‑price, firm‑price structure; no sales tax.