All areas of the industry are keenly watching the across-the-board review. Emap's supplier base currently extends to nine web printers and the group is expected to consolidate its roster. "It's causing consternation in the marketplace," noted one senior publishing source. "They could reduce that to three."

Group production director Andy Franks said there was a "huge amount to weigh up" following a raft of presentations from suppliers, including continental print groups. It's understood that a financial analyst has been brought in to examine investment record and financial stability.

Franks expects to make his final recommendations to Emap's board in early September. "We're going to have to make some awkward decisions. I'm very aware of the responsibility we've got to UK print, and also to Emap which is my job," he added.

Emap's huge portfolio of consumer and business titles includes flagships such as Heat and Nursing Times; as well as niche magazines such as Trout Fisherman and Plastics and Rubber Weekly.

Separately, Franks is recruiting a new group production process manager to replace John Kelly, who has moved to a new production role in Emap Active and Automotive.

Story by Jo Francis