The Httprint software will connect Virgin's creative, marketing, external agencies, print buyers and suppliers. The installation includes a Request for Quotation procurement and can also call off from stock or via print-on-demand.

"We saw Httprint as the best solution to enable a wide range of print
buying departments across a number of Virgin businesses," said a spokesperson for Virgin Group Procurement.

"All processes and spend can be tracked and reported serving as a valuable management information tool," added Polestar Applied Solutions managing director Paul Seaborn.

The appointment of Polestar Applied Graphics follows the Virgin Group's decision to consolidate its print spend and dissolve its print supply chain management arm Communic8.

At the end of last year two of Virgin's divisions handed contracts to TripleArc print management subsidiary Access Plus. Both Virgin Mobile and Virgin Retail awarded deals covering point of sale material.

Story by Philip Chadwick