Effective immediately, the deal will see Williams Lea manage a significant proportion of the publisher's print and book manufacturing needs.

The printer said that, based on anticipated spend levels, the relationship would result in guaranteed cost savings in excess of $60m during the first three years of the contract and $150m over the life of the agreement.

Justin Barton, chief executive of Williams Lea's US division, said: "Williams Lea's expertise in re-engineering the supply chain process for Houghton Mifflin Harcourt will enable it to produce products at a lower cost and strengthen our client's overall business position.

"We look forward to working together over the long term."