The B.C. Liquor Distribution Branch’s (LDB) search for a supply chain and logistics management expert is going overtime.
On May 24, the LDB published a request for proposals seeking a consultant to help it leave its 3150 East Broadway main distribution centre for a modern, new location elsewhere in Metro Vancouver. The bid deadline was extended from June 21 to July 5.
“It was expected the successful proponent would be selected by July 26 – however, due to a larger than expected number of responses, we expect the process to conclude in mid to late August,” said the LDB in a statement to Business in Vancouver.
LDB said it won’t release the list of bidders, because it is in the evaluation phase. “Once a proponent has been selected, a request can be made for the list of proponents.”
“The contract does not have a set dollar value. The LDB intends to hire a subject matter expert to gather the information needed to make an informed decision about relocation.”
The one-year contract includes LDB options for up to four six-month extensions.
The RFP was issued 10 days after the BC Liberal Party won its surprise re-election.
The Vancouver Distribution Centre, on land assessed at $29.77 million, also includes the LDB's head office, flagship retail outlet, security control centre, data centre, test laboratory, support and training facilities, cafeteria, fitness centre and daycare facility.
“The right facility in the best available location will allow distribution to make improvements in its business operation,” read the RFP. “In order to take full advantage of a new, more appropriate facility for the volume of business flowing through the Distribution Centre, the BCLDB may need to procure new technology solutions for Warehouse Management, Transportation and Logistics and Supply Chain.”
Richmond’s ContainerWorld is the province’s biggest purpose-built warehouse. The company was one of four shortlisted bidders to privatize LDB warehousing and distribution. The procurement was suddenly halted when the government reached a two-year agreement with the B.C. Government and Service Employees’ Union on September 27, 2012.
Suzanne Anton was appointed new liquor minister as part of her justice and attorney-general portfolio. Her orders from Premier Christy Clark include modernizing liquor laws and exploring whether to transform LDB to Crown corporation status.
