What next for WHSmith’s high street business as ownership race heads into final furlong?

By Megan Robinson11 March 2025

Critics often said that if WHSmith didn’t exist, no one would bother to invent it. Yet, as things stand, there are at least two private equity firms battling it out to acquire the brand, even if it likely won’t come with the name.

According to recent reports, the race for WHSmith is down to the final two bidders: Alteri Investors and Modella Capital. Both firms have experience with buying and taking over distressed retailers, with Alteri snapping up Bensons for Beds in 2020, and Modella Capital taking over Hobbycraft in 2024, and recently completing a deal for The Original Factory Shop in February this year.

What next for WHSmith’s high street business as ownership race heads into final furlong?

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