Overview

• WH Smith has announced it is exploring the sale of its 500 UK high street stores, though no final decision has been made.
• The company will retain its travel division, which operates in airports and train stations globally and generates the majority of its revenue and profits.
• The high street stores have faced criticism for outdated interiors, high prices, and an inability to compete with online retailers and specialized competitors.
• Observers note WH Smith's decline is part of a broader trend affecting legacy high street retailers like Woolworths and Wilko, which have also disappeared in recent years.
• The potential sale raises concerns about the future of Post Office counters located in many WH Smith stores, though the company has stated operations will continue if a sale proceeds.