Govia is responsible for the Southern, Southeastern and London Midland rail franchises, which account for nearly 30% of all UK passenger rail journeys.

Solihull-based Etrinsic will be responsible for managing the print and distribution of more than 3.5m timetables, issued twice a year to more than 200 stations and other outlets.

Paul Howie, account director at Etrinsic, said: "Go-Ahead represents one of the major rail groups in the UK and  this contract again underlines the value of the solutions Etrinsic provides to the transport industry.

"We have been working in the rail sector for more than 15 years and have proved we can deliver outstanding service in what is an extremely pressurised, deadline-driven and logistically complex environment.

"Rail companies are subject to strict compliance requirements – the fine for late arrival of timetables, for example, can run into thousands of pounds and with the potential for loss of franchise."

Howie added that on-time, accurate and traceable delivery, together with tight stock control and management of digital assets, were "crucial" to the contract.

Dave Lynch, group technology and procurement director for Go-Ahead, said: "Etrinsic's experience in the transport sector and high standards of service were key factors in the company's selection as our print management partner."

Etrinsic has long-standing contracts with other major companies in the transport arena, including South West Trains, East Midland Trains and National Express.