WHSmith hails ‘strong’ trading as travel retail rebounds

The retailer said sales in its travel business, which comprises shops in train stations and airports, grew 29% in the 26 weeks to August 27 compared to 2019 levels. In the first half of its financial year, travel sales were 82% of pre-pandemic levels. 

Sales in its high street business climbed to 80% of 2019 levels during the 26 weeks to August 27. That represented a drop from the 86% it registered during its first half.

Group sales grew 12% during the second half.

WHSmith said its US travel business rebounded at the fastest rate during the period, as sales rose 13%. That compared to an 8% increase in its UK travel stores and 3% in the rest of the world.

The retailer said its travel business had “continued to benefit from the recovery in passenger numbers”, despite admitting there remains “some ongoing disruption” at airports.

It added that the division delivered “strong ATV growth and higher penetration”, helped by its growing presence in categories including technology and health and beauty.

WHSmith said sales in its high street division were “adversely impacted” by the cyber attack on its online greetings card business, Funky Pigeon, back in April.

However, it insisted that full-year profits would be “in line with the upgraded expectations” it unveiled to the City in June. 

WHSmith will publish full-year results on November 10. 

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