Lot 1 of the framework, covering ‘print management services, including strategic and transformational services’ had already been awarded to HH Global as the single supplier.

Services available under Lot 2 of the agreement include bulk printing, operational print, secure print services, pre-media including typesetting and proofing, digital media solutions, finishing service and print-related products including envelopes and folders.

It also includes specialist format such as easy read and Braille.

The six firms on the Lot 2 framework are: APS Group, Corporate Document Services (CDS), Cubiquity, Harlow Printing, PSL Print Management and Williams Lea.

Both lots run until the end of 2024, and the overall total value of the contract is £420m.

CCS described the print management framework as “A UK-wide agreement available to all public sector organisations. This agreement is for customers who need the support and expertise of a print manager.”

It is separate to the existing CCS Print Marketplace print buying agreement, for those that do not require a print management supplier. That is handled by APS.

Four of the suppliers – CDS, Cubiquity, Harlow Printing and PSL Print Management – are classed as SMEs.

David Burton, principal account director for the public sector at Leeds-headquartered CDS commented: “CDS has a long history and strong reputation within the public sector, thanks to our roots in this area. This helps our team to empathise with the needs of those operating within the space – which are quite different from those in private limited companies.

“Winning a place on this framework is vital to CDS' ability to work alongside the public sector in relation to print management contracts – and it will see our services across this sector increase. It’s our job to provide help and advice to clients to ensure they invest in a solution that’s fit for purpose – and don’t pay over-the-odds for things they don’t need.”

CDS said it would be recruiting additional team members in client services and print buying to managed the anticipated growth in sales.

Vince Hume, sales director at Harlow Printing, said the South Shields firm was particularly delighted to be included in the framework this time around.

“We previously went for it about four- or five years ago but were unsuccessful. In the meantime we’ve put a lot of hard work in getting all the necessary accreditation,” he explained.

“It’s been a tough ask, but the team worked very hard on it, especially the bid team, and all that legwork has paid off. We’re absolutely delighted.”

Hume said the firm was also particularly proud to be included as a direct manufacturer of printed matter. “I think that’s important”, he added.

The government has stated that it wants to buy from SMEs “every time they are the best value for money”, and has changed the way it buys goods and services in order to help more SMEs  bid for contracts.

The changes included requiring the entire public sector supply chain to be paid within 30 days, and simplifying the processes involved for low value contracts.