Description
The City of Charleston is soliciting sealed bids to franchise seven designated street‑vendor spaces for the 2026‑2027 fiscal year. Selected vendors will receive a one‑year franchise to operate a mobile food, beverage, or reading‑material vending unit at a specific intersection. Each space must offer a distinct product mix, comply with strict vending rules (hours 7 am‑7 pm, no generators, signage standards, insurance, permits, etc.), and pay a franchise fee (amount to be determined). Bids must be mailed or hand‑delivered by September 10, 2026, and the contract term runs from October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2027. The City will award the franchise to the highest responsive, qualified bidder for each space.
• 7 vendor locations across downtown Charleston (e.g., East Bay & Gillon, Broad & Meeting).
• Minimum bid amounts range from $1,600 to $3,300 per space.
• Franchise fee and ongoing compliance (insurance $500k, permits, SBE participation).
• No pre‑bid meeting; questions due August 31, 2026.
• Award expected September 22, 2026; contract term 1 year.