WHSmith will launch a new kind of travel store on Monday at London's Kings Cross Station.
The initiative will be the first big operational change at WHS since the collapse of venture capitalist Permira's takeover approach, and has been spearheaded by WHSmith Travel Retail chief operating officer David White.
The 197 travel stores, which average about 1,000 sq ft (95 sq m), have long been the powerhouse of the embattled UK retail business.
However, research over the past year shows areas ripe for improvement in stores characterised by rapid stock turnover, limited space and high footfall.
The shop will include better shelving for greater stock density and easier stock-switching, and clearer signage to improve navigation. Upgraded replenishment systems will include late-night delivery.
A spokeswoman said the refit should encourage higher spending, because the changes will help shoppers find more product more easily.
The store will include a plasma screen with train times, a call-forward till system to reduce clogging of aisles, and a dedicated entrance and exit.
The spokeswoman emphasised the refit was low-cost and 'not substantially more than the usual refit budget'.
Elements will begin to appear in London mainline stations and airport stores over the coming months. Selected features will be introduced to other travel stores during the normal refit cycle.
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