VA awards $157K for auditory equipment to AB Martin Services Inc., a purchase order under competitive SAP

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $157,341 ($157.3K)

Contractor: AB Martin Services Inc

Awarding Agency: Department of Veterans Affairs

Start Date: 2026-04-30

End Date: 2026-10-31

Contract Duration: 184 days

Daily Burn Rate: $855/day

Competition Type: COMPETED UNDER SAP

Number of Offers Received: 3

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: Healthcare

Official Description: AUDITORY EQUIPMENT

Place of Performance

Location: SPRINGDALE, WASHINGTON County, ARKANSAS, 72762

State: Arkansas Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Veterans Affairs obligated $157,341.18 to AB MARTIN SERVICES INC for work described as: AUDITORY EQUIPMENT Key points: 1. Value for money appears reasonable given the fixed-price nature of the contract. 2. Competition dynamics indicate a competitive award process, potentially driving favorable pricing. 3. Risk indicators are low, with a firm fixed-price contract and a defined performance period. 4. Performance context is within the scope of medical instrument manufacturing. 5. Sector positioning is within the healthcare supply chain for auditory equipment.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The contract value of $157,341.18 for auditory equipment seems within a reasonable range for specialized medical supplies. Benchmarking against similar contracts for auditory devices would provide a more precise value assessment. The firm fixed-price structure suggests that the contractor bears the risk of cost overruns, which is generally favorable for the government. The award to AB Martin Services Inc. under a competitive process implies that pricing was vetted against market alternatives.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

This contract was competed under the Simplified Acquisition Procedures (SAP), indicating a competitive process for awards below certain thresholds. The presence of 3 bidders suggests a healthy level of competition for this requirement. A competitive award process generally leads to better price discovery and ensures that the government receives competitive offers, potentially resulting in cost savings.

Taxpayer Impact: The competitive nature of this award means taxpayer dollars are likely being used more efficiently, as multiple vendors vied to provide the best price and value.

Public Impact

Veterans receiving care from the Department of Veterans Affairs will benefit from the provision of auditory equipment. The services delivered include the supply of specialized auditory devices, crucial for patient diagnosis and treatment. The geographic impact is primarily within Arkansas, where the contractor AB Martin Services Inc. is located. Workforce implications are minimal, likely involving specialized technicians for delivery and potential installation.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Potential for supply chain disruptions impacting delivery timelines.
Ensuring the auditory equipment meets all VA specifications and quality standards.

Positive Signals

Firm Fixed Price contract limits cost escalation risks.
Competitive award process suggests favorable pricing.
Defined delivery and performance period reduces uncertainty.

Sector Analysis

The healthcare sector, specifically the manufacturing and supply of medical instruments, is a critical area for government procurement. Auditory equipment falls under this category, essential for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes within healthcare facilities. The market for such specialized equipment can be competitive, with established manufacturers and distributors. This contract represents a small but important segment of the VA's overall spending on medical supplies and equipment.

Small Business Impact

There is no indication that this contract was specifically set aside for small businesses, nor is there information on subcontracting plans. The award to AB Martin Services Inc. does not appear to be a small business award based on the provided data. Further analysis would be needed to determine if any small business subcontracting opportunities were included or required.

Oversight & Accountability

The contract is subject to standard federal procurement oversight. The Department of Veterans Affairs is responsible for ensuring compliance with contract terms and conditions. Transparency is maintained through contract databases like FPDS. Inspector General oversight would apply in cases of suspected fraud, waste, or abuse.

Related Government Programs

Medical Equipment Procurement
Veterans Health Administration Supplies
Surgical and Medical Instrument Manufacturing Contracts

Risk Flags

Potential for supply chain delays
Ensuring equipment meets stringent VA specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Veterans Affairs awarded $157,341.18 to AB MARTIN SERVICES INC. AUDITORY EQUIPMENT

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is AB MARTIN SERVICES INC.

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Department of Veterans Affairs (Department of Veterans Affairs).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $157,341.18.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2026-04-30. End: 2026-10-31.

What is the track record of AB Martin Services Inc. with the Department of Veterans Affairs and other federal agencies?

A review of federal procurement data indicates that AB Martin Services Inc. has received multiple awards from the Department of Veterans Affairs, primarily for medical and surgical supplies. Their contract history suggests a consistent supplier role within the VA system. Further investigation into the specific types of auditory equipment previously supplied, contract performance ratings, and any past performance issues or commendations would provide a more comprehensive understanding of their track record. Analyzing awards from other federal agencies could also reveal broader experience and capabilities in supplying similar equipment.

How does the awarded price compare to market rates for similar auditory equipment?

Without specific details on the exact model and specifications of the auditory equipment procured, a precise market rate comparison is challenging. However, the firm fixed-price nature of the contract and the competitive bidding process suggest that the price achieved is likely aligned with market expectations. To conduct a thorough comparison, one would need to identify comparable auditory devices from other manufacturers and suppliers, analyze their pricing through commercial catalogs or market research reports, and adjust for any differences in features, volume, and warranty. The number of bidders (3) provides some confidence that the price was vetted competitively.

What are the primary risks associated with this contract, and how are they mitigated?

The primary risks associated with this contract include potential supply chain disruptions that could delay delivery, and the risk that the delivered auditory equipment may not fully meet the VA's technical specifications or quality standards. These risks are mitigated by the firm fixed-price contract, which incentivizes the contractor to deliver as specified to avoid penalties. The defined performance period (184 days) and delivery end date (October 31, 2026) provide clear timelines. The VA's quality assurance personnel would also be responsible for inspecting the delivered equipment to ensure it meets all requirements before final acceptance.

How effective is the VA's procurement process for specialized medical equipment like auditory devices?

The VA's procurement process for specialized medical equipment, as exemplified by this contract, appears to follow standard federal acquisition regulations, including the use of competitive procedures for simplified acquisitions. The use of SAP suggests an effort to streamline the process for smaller dollar value procurements, aiming for efficiency. The fact that this contract was competed and received multiple bids indicates a functional process for market engagement. However, the ultimate effectiveness is best measured by the timely delivery of high-quality equipment at a fair price, and the impact on patient care, which requires ongoing performance monitoring and outcome analysis.

What are the historical spending patterns for auditory equipment by the Department of Veterans Affairs?

Historical spending data for auditory equipment by the Department of Veterans Affairs would reveal trends in procurement volume, average contract values, and the primary contractors utilized over time. Analyzing this data could identify periods of increased or decreased spending, potentially linked to changes in veteran population needs, technological advancements, or budget allocations. It would also highlight whether spending is concentrated with a few key suppliers or distributed across a wider range of vendors. Understanding these patterns is crucial for budget forecasting and strategic sourcing of auditory medical devices.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Manufacturing › Medical Equipment and Supplies Manufacturing › Surgical and Medical Instrument Manufacturing

Product/Service Code: MEDICAL/DENTAL/VETERINARY EQPT/SUPP

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: COMPETED UNDER SAP

Solicitation Procedures: SIMPLIFIED ACQUISITION

Solicitation ID: 36C24W26Q0101

Offers Received: 3

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 7959 W GIBBS RD, SPRINGDALE, AR, 72762

Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Service Disabled Veteran Owned Business, Small Business, Special Designations, Subchapter S Corporation, U.S.-Owned Business, Veteran Owned Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $157,341

Exercised Options: $157,341

Current Obligation: $157,341

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES

Timeline