Privatization review targets Fort Buchanan commissary
The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) has issued a request for information seeking input from the grocery industry on the possible privatization of its commissary operations, including the store at Fort Buchanan in Guaynabo.
The request, tied to an April 2025 directive, asks commercial grocers and investment firms to assess their ability to manage 178 commissaries across the United States, Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico.
The aim is to determine whether private operators could sustain the core military benefit of 23.7% average savings for authorized patrons, with no or significantly reduced government subsidy.
At Fort Buchanan, the commissary has long provided service members, veterans and their families with reliable access to affordable groceries in a market where prices often run higher than on the mainland.
DeCA emphasized that commissaries are not just retail outlets but a key nonpay compensation benefit meant to support quality of life and readiness.
“DeCA delivers a vital benefit to provide reliable access to quality grocery and household products where the military lives and works,” the agency said.
Renovations at the Fort Buchanan commissary began in January and are scheduled for completion in August 2026. The project includes HVAC and refrigeration upgrades and new interior décor, highlighting the government’s effort to modernize facilities even as it considers privatization.
The request also outlines requirements for potential operators to handle both daily operations and significant infrastructure needs.
“The Department of War is interested in exploring the potential to deliver today’s 23.7% savings benefit, as required by current policy, with no or minimal government investment,” the document said.
Private operators would be expected to address a $2.4 billion facilities maintenance backlog — about $500 million annually over five years — along with ongoing maintenance costs estimated at $250 million per year. Commissaries, including Fort Buchanan, could be offered rent-free and in “as-is” condition.
Submissions are due Oct. 21. Respondents are asked to outline operational models, employee support plans and financial capacity. While the request is exploratory, it indicates that privatization is under active consideration.
