Base Supply Centers

The AbilityOne® Program operates Base Supply Centers (BSCs) on many military installations, and operates some additional Supply Stores in federal buildings. Also known as Self-Service Supply Stores or SERVMARTs to many government customers, these convenient retail locations allow walk-in shopping, and in most cases, will deliver orders on base. Look for a wide range of AbilityOne products and other essential items at each location. Click here for a list of AbilityOne-operated Base Supply and Office Supply Centers (PDF).

Background

In the wake of realignment throughout the Services, many military installations found themselves without an on-site office supply center. Seeing an opportunity to create retail jobs for people who are blind or have significant disabilities in stores stocked with quality AbilityOne products, the AbilityOne Program stepped in.

Each BSC is added to the Commission's Procurement List as an AbilityOne "service" project, in accordance with 41 CFR, Chapter 51, which ensures that the establishment of a BSC helps accomplish the AbilityOne Program's employment mission.

Although the ability to operate a BSC may be added to the Procurement List for a specific location, the BSC does not become a required or mandatory source of supply by virtue of this action. Any BSC location that is a required source of supply for base personnel has been designated as such by the Base Commander, not by the Commission or by the Procurement List.

Authorized Distribution Source

BSCs are one of several authorized distribution sources for AbilityOne products. Commercial (non-AbilityOne) products are also available at the BSCs. A part of the value-added for the government customers is the one-stop shopping that is afforded to by the availability of appropriate commercial convenience items.

Commission Support

The Commission supports the BSC concept in terms of its two fundamental values to the AbilityOne Program: first, as an employment opportunity for people who are blind or significantly disabled with increased emphasis on retail job opportunities; and second, as a distribution channel for AbilityOne products.