How to bid on North Jetty Park Concession Services for Sarasota County

What Sarasota County is buying

Sarasota County is looking for a concessionaire to manage and operate the concession area at North Jetty Park. This includes providing food and beverage services. There is also an option to offer retail concessions, pending approval from the County.

The initial contract for these services is expected to last for three years. This is a chance for a business to establish a presence in a public park setting.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

The solicitation was published on August 17, 2026. All responses must be submitted by September 17, 2026, at 2:30 PM ET. It is important to submit your proposal before this deadline, as late submissions are typically not accepted.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for businesses experienced in food and beverage service, particularly those with experience operating concessions in public spaces or parks. Firms with a background in retail operations may also find this appealing due to the optional retail component. The relevant category is food and agriculture services.

How to respond to this solicitation

To access the full solicitation documents and submit your response, you need to visit the agency's procurement portal, OpenGov Procurement. You will need to sign in or create a free vendor account on OpenGov Procurement to download the plans, ask any questions you may have, join the planholders list, and submit your proposal.

Any updates or addenda to the solicitation will be managed and distributed through OpenGov Procurement, so it is important to register and monitor the platform for this opportunity.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

When preparing your response, carefully review the solicitation documents for minimum qualifications, scope of services, and insurance requirements. Ensure your proposal clearly addresses all these points.

Highlight your experience in managing similar concession operations, especially those involving food and beverages in high-traffic public areas. If you plan to offer retail, detail your proposed items and how they would complement the park environment. Provide a clear and realistic operational plan for the concession area.