High street revenue down at WHSmith despite strong travel performance
WHSmith has recorded a small decline in high street revenue, despite the retailer’s travel division performing well internationally.
During the 13-week period ending 1 June, WHSmith’s high street revenue declined by 4% compared to the same period in 2023, with like-for-like sales down by 1%.
The retailer said that early feedback on its five Toys “R” Us shop-in-shops has been “good”, with the retailer on track to open a further 25 concessions in the balance of the financial year.
Last year, WHSmith said it will not open any more stores on UK high streets.
In the retailer’s UK travel division, total revenue during the period was up by 9% compared to 2023, with like-for-like sales up by 8%.
Globally, WHSmith’s travel division saw revenue increase year-on-year by 8% during the period, with like-for-like sales up by 5%.
The retailer said it is well positioned as it enters the peak summer trading period, with good trading momentum continuing across all travel divisions.