Travel sales success

SHOPS in train stations, airports and hospitals are boosting sales of books and stationery at WH Smith.

The retailer said its travel business continued to perform strongly – in its last update to the market, sales were up 3pc while purchases at high street stores fell 1pc. Price cuts have also boosted its profits. Neil Wilson, at trading platform Markets, said: ‘Continued under- investment in the high street side should not cloud the view that WH Smith is building a strong brand in travel, significantly reducing its exposure to the ailing UK High Street.’