WHSmith is set to open high-end souvenir and stationery shops as it aims to fill the gap left by the closure of Paperchase stores.

The general merchandise retailer’s new standalone shops called Curi.o.city will sell stationery, gifts and souvenirs from third-party brands such as East London Liquor Company, Biscuiteers and Soapsmith.

Curi.o.city will open under the new fascia in Gatwick Airport’s North and South terminals on March 16, with another opening at King’s Cross railway station in April, The Times reported.

WHSmith chief executive Carl Cowling said he saw “fresh opportunities” following the collapse of Paperchase.

It was announced in January that Tesco had bought the British gift and stationery brand out of administration in a deal that did not include its shops or 900 staff.

The retailer hired several employees from the Paperchase head office team and a WHSmith store is due to replace the Paperchase concession in the Selfridges store in Manchester.

Cowling said there are no plans to open any more shops on the high street, but said it would expand its stationery ranges in stores near to former Paperchase shops.

The business is planning more expansion with over £100m invested in new shops. It continues to push into the international travel market with 60 shops opening in the US last year and a further 60 set to open this year.

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