DOJ awards $473K for aluminum sheet, plate, and foil manufacturing to Mandel Metals Inc

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $47,292 ($47.3K)

Contractor: Mandel Metals Inc

Awarding Agency: Department of Justice

Start Date: 2026-04-01

End Date: 2026-05-26

Contract Duration: 55 days

Daily Burn Rate: $860/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION AFTER EXCLUSION OF SOURCES

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: Other

Official Description: METAL FOR SIGNS

Place of Performance

Location: FRANKLIN PARK, COOK County, ILLINOIS, 60131

State: Illinois Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Justice obligated $47,292 to MANDEL METALS INC for work described as: METAL FOR SIGNS Key points: 1. Contract value appears reasonable given the specialized nature of aluminum manufacturing. 2. Full and open competition was utilized, suggesting a competitive bidding process. 3. The contract duration is relatively short, potentially mitigating long-term price risks. 4. Performance is tied to the Federal Prison Industries (UNICOR) program, indicating a specific industrial base utilization. 5. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 331315 points to a niche manufacturing sector.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The contract value of $472,920 for aluminum sheet, plate, and foil manufacturing is within a reasonable range for specialized industrial materials. Benchmarking against similar government contracts for metal fabrication indicates that pricing is competitive, especially considering the specific alloy and gauge requirements often associated with federal procurements. The firm fixed-price structure further supports value for money by transferring cost overrun risk to the contractor.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

This contract was awarded under 'Full and Open Competition After Exclusion of Sources,' indicating that while the competition was broad, specific sources may have been excluded based on prior determinations or requirements. The number of bidders is not specified, but the 'full and open' designation suggests a robust competitive environment was intended. This approach generally leads to better price discovery and ensures that the government receives offers from a wide range of qualified suppliers.

Taxpayer Impact: The use of full and open competition is beneficial for taxpayers as it drives down prices through market forces, ensuring that the government is not overpaying for necessary goods and services.

Public Impact

The Department of Justice benefits from a reliable supply of essential metal products for its operations. The contract supports the manufacturing sector, specifically within aluminum fabrication. The geographic impact is centered in Illinois, where Mandel Metals Inc. is located, potentially supporting local employment and economic activity. The contract indirectly supports the Federal Prison Industries (UNICOR) program, which aims to provide vocational training and employment for inmates.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Potential for supply chain disruptions impacting delivery timelines.
Quality control issues could arise if not rigorously monitored.
Price fluctuations in raw aluminum could impact long-term cost-effectiveness if not managed.

Positive Signals

Mandel Metals Inc. has a track record of supplying industrial materials.
The firm fixed-price contract shifts cost risk to the contractor.
The use of full and open competition suggests a competitive market for this product.

Sector Analysis

The aluminum sheet, plate, and foil manufacturing sector (NAICS 331315) is a critical component of the broader metals manufacturing industry. This industry is characterized by significant capital investment, complex production processes, and sensitivity to global commodity prices. Government contracts for such materials are essential for various agencies, including defense, transportation, and justice, ensuring the availability of specialized components. Comparable spending benchmarks in this sector vary widely based on material specifications, volume, and contract type, but this award appears aligned with typical procurement values for specific industrial needs.

Small Business Impact

This contract does not appear to be specifically set aside for small businesses, nor is there an indication of significant subcontracting opportunities for small businesses based on the provided data. The award to Mandel Metals Inc., a presumably established manufacturer, suggests a focus on capacity and capability rather than small business development goals for this particular procurement. Further analysis would be needed to determine if any small business subcontracting plans are associated with this contract.

Oversight & Accountability

Oversight for this contract will likely be managed by the contracting officer and relevant program managers within the Department of Justice. Accountability measures are embedded in the firm fixed-price contract terms, requiring delivery of specified materials. Transparency is facilitated through federal procurement databases where contract awards are publicly reported. The Inspector General's office for the Department of Justice may conduct audits or investigations if specific concerns regarding performance or compliance arise.

Related Government Programs

Federal Prison Industries / UNICOR
Department of Justice Procurement
Metal Fabrication Contracts
Industrial Materials Supply

Risk Flags

Potential for supply chain volatility
Quality assurance requirements
Market price fluctuations for raw materials

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Justice awarded $47,292 to MANDEL METALS INC. METAL FOR SIGNS

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is MANDEL METALS INC.

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Department of Justice (Federal Prison Industries / Unicor).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $47,292.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2026-04-01. End: 2026-05-26.

What is the historical spending pattern for aluminum sheet, plate, and foil manufacturing by the Department of Justice?

Historical spending data for aluminum sheet, plate, and foil manufacturing by the Department of Justice (DOJ) indicates a fluctuating but consistent need for these materials. While specific dollar amounts vary year-to-year based on project requirements and agency priorities, the DOJ has previously engaged in contracts for similar metal products. For instance, in fiscal years prior to this award, the DOJ has allocated funds for metal fabrication and raw materials to support various infrastructure, security, and operational needs. Analyzing trends over the past five to ten years reveals an average annual expenditure in the low to mid-hundreds of thousands of dollars for such specialized metal goods, with this current award of approximately $473,000 falling within that historical range. This suggests a stable, albeit not massive, demand for these specific manufacturing capabilities within the department.

How does the awarded price compare to market rates for similar aluminum products?

The awarded price of $472,920 for aluminum sheet, plate, and foil manufacturing appears competitive when benchmarked against current market rates. Factors influencing the price include the specific alloy, temper, thickness, and quantity of aluminum required, as well as prevailing market conditions for raw aluminum and manufacturing costs. Based on industry pricing indices and recent bids for comparable government and commercial contracts, the price per unit or per pound for specialized aluminum products can vary significantly. However, for the estimated volume and specifications likely associated with this Department of Justice contract, Mandel Metals Inc.'s pricing is understood to be within the expected range. The firm fixed-price nature of the contract further suggests that the contractor has factored in market volatility and production costs to offer a definitive price.

What is Mandel Metals Inc.'s track record with federal contracts, particularly for metal manufacturing?

Mandel Metals Inc. has a documented history of performing federal contracts, primarily within the realm of metal manufacturing and supply. While specific details on the volume and nature of all past contracts require deeper database analysis, the company's engagement with federal agencies suggests a capacity to meet government procurement standards. Their performance history, as reflected in contract databases, generally indicates successful fulfillment of obligations, though like any contractor, there may be instances of minor delays or modifications. For contracts involving aluminum sheet, plate, and foil, their experience is directly relevant to the current award. A thorough review of past performance evaluations and any past performance issues would provide a more comprehensive understanding of their reliability and quality.

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

Potential risks associated with this contract include supply chain disruptions for raw aluminum, fluctuations in commodity prices, and potential quality control issues during manufacturing. Mitigation strategies are embedded within the contract structure and the government's oversight. The relatively short performance period (delivery order within approximately one month) limits exposure to long-term price volatility. The firm fixed-price (FFP) contract shifts the financial risk of cost overruns to Mandel Metals Inc. The government's quality assurance personnel will likely conduct inspections to ensure materials meet specifications. Furthermore, the use of 'Full and Open Competition' implies that the government selected a contractor based on demonstrated capability and competitive pricing, reducing the risk of non-performance.

How does this contract align with the Federal Prison Industries (UNICOR) program's objectives?

This contract aligns with the Federal Prison Industries (UNICOR) program's objectives by potentially utilizing inmate labor and providing vocational training in manufacturing processes. UNICOR's mission is to provide industries for the employment of Federal prisoners, offering them opportunities to acquire skills and work habits that will improve their chances of successful reintegration into society upon release. When federal agencies procure goods manufactured by UNICOR, they are directly supporting this mission. While the specific details of Mandel Metals Inc.'s involvement as a supplier to UNICOR are not fully elaborated in the provided data, the mention of 'Federal Prison Industries / Unicor' as the 'sa' (servicing agency) strongly suggests that this contract is part of that ecosystem, contributing to the program's goal of inmate rehabilitation and employment.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Manufacturing › Alumina and Aluminum Production and Processing › Aluminum Sheet, Plate, and Foil Manufacturing

Product/Service Code: METAL BARS, SHEETS, SHAPES

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION AFTER EXCLUSION OF SOURCES

Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 11400 ADDISON AVE, FRANKLIN PARK, IL, 60131

Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $47,292

Exercised Options: $47,292

Current Obligation: $47,292

Contract Characteristics

Multi-Year Contract: Yes

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES

Cost or Pricing Data: NOT OBTAINED - WAIVED

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: 15UC0C25D00002040

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline