South African Airways (SAA) has officially issued a Request for Quotation (RFQ) under reference number GSM048/25 for the comprehensive design, supply, installation, and maintenance of airport signage across all airports operated by the national carrier. Published on Friday, 31 October 2025, this national tender is open to qualified service providers with proven experience in high-quality signage solutions aligned with corporate branding and aviation standards.
The closing date for submissions is Friday, 07 November 2025 at 16:00, leaving bidders a narrow window to prepare compliant and competitive proposals. All quotations must be emailed to NaveshniGanesh@flysaa.com and tenders@flysaa.com , with file size limitations of 2MB per email—larger submissions must be sent in parts or via secure download links.
Scope of Work and Contract Duration
The selected service provider will be responsible for delivering a full suite of signage assets, including but not limited to pylons, mini pylons, hand baggage scales, newspaper stands, light boxes, ticketing office branding, digital screens, check-in collateral, and premium lounge signage. Coordination with individual airport authorities for permits and site access is also part of the contractor’s obligations. The awarded contract will span three years, emphasizing long-term reliability and service continuity.
Mandatory Requirements and Compliance Criteria
To qualify, bidders must meet strict administrative and substantive criteria. These include submission of a valid ISO 9001:2015 certification, a detailed pricing schedule, a completed SAA Vendor Application, SBD 4 declaration, and the signed General Conditions of Contract. Additionally, vendors must ensure SAA holds a valid Original Tax Clearance Certificate—failure to provide one with the bid may result in automatic disqualification.
Evaluation Methodology and Scoring Thresholds
SAA’s evaluation process is structured in five sequential (or potentially parallel) phases: administrative responsiveness, substantive compliance, technical functionality, price and specific goals assessment, and final award. A minimum technical functionality score of 70% is required to proceed. This phase weighs 40% on years of relevant signage experience and 60% on client reference letters. Only bidders clearing all mandatory hurdles will be considered for pricing evaluation.
Submission Guidelines and Key Deadlines
All documents must be submitted before the 7 November 2025 deadline. Late or incomplete bids will not be entertained. Vendors are reminded that no briefing session will be held, and all information must be derived from the official RFQ documentation. Goods or services must not be delivered prior to issuance of a formal purchase order.
Preference Points and B-BBEE Considerations
SAA applies a 20-point preference system aligned with South Africa’s Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act. 10 points are allocated to B-BBEE Level 1 and 2 contributors, and another 10 points to Exempted Micro Enterprises (EMEs) or Qualifying Small Enterprises (QSEs) that are at least 51% black-owned. Valid B-BBEE certificates, sworn affidavits, or CIPC documentation must accompany submissions to claim these points.
Related opportunity: ACSA RFQ: King Phalo Airport 3-Year Painting Contract
Tender Documents
Bidders must download and review all required documentation:
- SAA General Conditions of Contract
- RFQ GSM048/25 – Airport Signage Specification
- SAA Vendor Application Form
- SBD 4 Declaration Form
For inquiries, contact Naveshni Ganesh at 011-978-2145 or via email.
This tender represents a significant opportunity for signage specialists to partner with South Africa’s flag carrier in enhancing passenger experience through professional, compliant, and visually consistent airport environments nationwide.
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