Boots is increasing the print run of its Health & Beauty magazine by 50% to 3m from May.


The magazine, which is published by Redwood Publishing, is currently printed at Polestar Watmoughs in Bradford although its future remains somewhat of a mystery.


Redwood Publishing production director Niki Webb said: "We dont contract it for more than one issue at a time. Were happy with Polestar Bradford, but well have to look at where the magazines going."


Boots Health & Beauty magazine was ranked fifth in the latest ABC tables for average net circulation. It is currently sent to the companys top 2m customers.


"Were re-tendering at the moment. Gravure would seem to be the most sensible way to produce it. But maybe offset would be more cost effective. We havent decided," added Webb.


Pre-press is carried out by Electronic Solutions in London, and it is produced CTP at Watmoughs.


Health & Beauty is published four times annually and the extended print run is aimed at targeting more of Boots highest spending 12.7m Advantage Card holders.


"It has been a big hit with Boots customers. The two ingredients of health and beauty are perfect for their top customers," said Webb.


If Redwood decides to go gravure with the magazine, it would be the second high-ranking title to change printer recently.


Two weeks ago, John Brown Publishing moved the printing of the 4.4m-run AA Magazine to Gruner + Jahr subsidiary DD&V. Polestar Greaves previously held that contract.


Story by John Davies