The business has issued a statement regarding the strategic options it is exploring.
‘WH Smith PLCnotes the recent press speculation regarding its High Street business.
‘WHSmith confirms that it is exploring potential strategic options for this profitable and cash generative part of the Group, including a possible sale.
‘Over the past decade, WHSmith has become a focused global travel retailer. The Group’s Travel business has over 1,200 stores across 32 countries, and three-quarters of the Group’s revenue and 85% of its trading profit comes from the Travel business.
‘There can be no certainty that any agreement will be reached, and further updates will be provided as and when appropriate.’
Established in 1792, WHSmith’s first store was opened by Henry Walton Smith and his wife Anna in Little Grosvenor Street, London.
WHSmith opened the first ever travel retail store in London’s Euston station in 1848.
Now after 230 years in business, WHSmith is a leading global retailer in news, books and convenience with more than 1,700 stores in over 30 countries.
WHSmith celebrated its 230th anniversary and closed the year in their strongest ever position as a global travel retailer, with a further 150 stores won and due to open across the globe.
