British travel retailer WH Smith has confirmed it is evaluating strategic options for its UK high street business, which may include a sale.

The disclosure responds to media speculation following a report by Sky News on 25 January 2025, the company held confidential talks about divesting its entire high street segment.

The retailer, known for its presence in 500 UK high street locations, issued a statement saying: “WH Smith notes the recent press speculation about its high street business. WHSmith confirms that it is exploring potential strategic options for this profitable and effective business to generate part of the group, including a possible sale”.

The retailer has stressed that there is no guarantee that the explorations will result in a deal.

The company pledged to provide timely updates on the progress of these discussions “as and when appropriate.”

It has a portfolio of 1,200 travel stores spread across 32 countries. A significant part of the company’s financial success is attributed to this sector, with travel retail accounting for three-quarters of WHSmith’s total revenue and 85% of its trading profit.

WH Smith reported that its high street operations have performed well, generating revenues of £452m and profits of £32m by 2024. Group revenue rose 7% to £1.9bn of pounds for the fiscal year ending August 31. 2024.

The high street arm currently employs 5,000 people, a significant part of the company’s total retail workforce of 13,870.

Street shops continue to offer traditional products such as greeting cards, books and stationery.

Travel branches have diversified their product range to include food and beverages as well as technology items.

Shares in WH Smith ended Friday at 1148p, down 5% on the previous year.

“WH Smith explores possible sale of high street business” was originally created and published by Retail Insight Networka trademark owned by GlobalData.

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