WH Smith travel arm thrives

Retailer WH Smith said under-pressure high street sales continue to be offset by its growing chain of shops based at airports and railway stations.

The stationery and newsagent group saw total sales in its travel arm jump 8 per cent in the 15 weeks to 10 June. Like-for-like sales at the division rose 5 per cent, while same-store sales fell 4 per cent across its high street estate.