A Globe subsidiary already distributes some copies of the Herald, but the new deal represents an unprecedented level of cooperation between the longtime competitors, with each to benefit in different ways. While the Herald saves on labor expenses, the Globe will take on more printing and delivery work, a growing part of its business.
Other functions of the newspapers, including editorial operations, remain separate.
‘‘This is an advantageous business opportunity to print the Herald and expand the area in which we currently deliver their newspapers,’’ the Boston Globe’s publisher, Christopher M. Mayer, said in a statement. ‘‘Given the overlap in our distribution, this just makes sense to do at this time.’’
The agreement comes as the Herald gets ready to relocate at the end of the month to an office building on Fargo Street in the Seaport District.
The Herald’s publisher, Patrick J. Purcell, has entered into a joint venture with National Development to redevelop the paper’s current 6.6-acre site next to the Southeast Expressway. National Development, based in Newton, is planning a mixed-use project with retail stores and hundreds of residences.
In a statement, Purcell said the arrangement with the Globe ‘‘makes sound financial sense,’’ allowing the newspapers ‘‘to serve our readers and advertisers with a distinct voice.’’
Ralph Giallanella, secretary of Teamsters Local 259, said the union spent several months negotiating the best deal for its members. Details of buyouts and severance packages for laid-off employees were not disclosed.
‘‘You’re never pleased when a significant number of people with families lose their jobs,’’ Giallanella said. ‘‘We just tried to work out the best possible deal we could.’’
