It might be bleak for many on the British High Street – but stationery stalwart WH Smith is thriving. The high street might look a little bleak at the moment – however stationery stalwart WH Smith is thriving.
The chain’s move away from town centre stores to focus on travel hubs such as train stations and airports is paying off. Total sales were up 15 per cent in the 11 weeks to May 18, boosted by a 26 per cent rise in the travel division. Though the strong results were largely due to the £155 million acquisition of airport retailer Inmotion, they showed there is hope for the UK’s retailers.
The chain is still expanding, with 20 new locations in the pipeline.
