Barclays initiated the six-stage cost-saving review in July (PrintWeek, 26 July). It involved in-depth interviews, assessment days and e-tendering.

Barclays spokesman George Hulbert said: These three were chosen not only because they showed they could do a good job, but because they bought into the idea of working as a partnership. They proved they could work well with us, as well as each other.

Individual terms are currently being negotiated with existing suppliers to come to a mutually convenient end.

Hulbert added that it was too early to say exactly how the print budget would be spread between the three companies.

Story by Rachel Barnes