DLA Troop Support partners with Navy Region Southeast

The Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support fast-tracked procurement and installation of new food service equipment to help the U.S. Navy debut a bistro-style dining concept on a tight deadline at Naval Construction Battalion Center Gulfport, Mississippi.

The project centered on custom-built counters to support multiple action stations, including Asian/Mongolian, smoothie, international/vegan and panini offerings—part of a broader push toward fresh, made-to-order meals and faster service. “This new equipment was necessary to expand menu variety, improve service efficiency and introduce the fresh, made-to-order meals that are the focus of the transformation initiative,” said U.S. Navy Capt. Tim Griffin director of the Subsistence Supply Chain. “This installation now has distinct and fully functional serving stations alongside the galley’s current equipment, transforming its capabilities to provide a wider variety of high-quality, contemporary dining options.”

DLA’s Subsistence Operational Rations & Equipment Division elevated the requirement to its top priority and coordinated closely with the base’s public works team to ensure renovations and utilities were ready for the new layout. “Subsistence Operational Rations & Equipment Division made this requirement priority #1 and acquired all required equipment to support the bistro concept,” said Matthew Conroy, branch chief, Field Feeding Equipment. “It was important to ensure the customer’s department of public works was involved in the effort, since proper renovations and utility outlets were required to support the new equipment and concept.”

To compress timelines, the acquisition team pivoted from its typical approach. “In order to meet the strict deadline, we had to look for a different acquisition strategy than what is normally utilized for Food Service Equipment,” said Coyle. “The acquisition strategy executed was a unique strategic sourcing solution which streamlined the process.”

That shift paid off in contracting speed. “We awarded this contract in 3 days,” said Jasmine Brown, division chief, Operational Rations and Equipment. “For reference, it usually takes at least two months. We worked with the contractor from start to finish to meet the short suspense date.”

Program officials said they clarified requirements early and coordinated with support offices to keep the solicitation process within regulations while maintaining the accelerated pace.

According to a Naval Construction Battalion Center Gulfport public affairs release, the base is one of only two Navy installations selected to pilot the Commander, Navy Installations Command Shore Food Service Transformation initiative. The renovated, campus-style facility features updated serving stations, expanded seating and a redesigned layout able to accommodate up to 495 personnel.

Leaders involved in the effort said the rollout met expectations. “We received a copy of the article about the grand opening date,” said Conroy. “The customers of the bistro were happy with the finished product.”