WH Smith introduces new store format with Smith’s Kitchen brand
WH Smith has launched its first own-brand café format as it looks to expand its offer for customers and partners.
Sitting within the retailer’s UK travel business, Smith’s Kitchen will offer a range of dine in and takeaway choices including the recently launched Smith’s Family Kitchen range of products such as sandwiches, salads, baguettes and wraps.
The first Smith’s Kitchen has opened in Princess Anne Hospital in Southampton and features a 26 seat, 495 square foot café.
Andrew Harrison, UK travel managing director at WH Smith said: “Whether it’s in a hospital or on their journeys, customers tell us that quality food and drink options are what they prioritise most in the different locations we serve.
“That’s why we have been doubling down on our food ranges and formats to ensure our customers don’t need to compromise on quality or value, as demonstrated today with the launch of Smith’s Kitchen.
“With the opening of our first ever own-brand café coming hot on the heels of our newly launched own-brand food range, this shows the pace of innovation across our business and commitment to delivering quality experiences and products at WHSmith for our customers and partners.”
WH Smith’s UK travel division operates 590 stores. In the 13 weeks to 1 June, the division saw its revenue increase by 9% year-on-year following respective uplifts of 8%, 14% and 8% in stores at airports, hospitals and rail stations
The launch of a Smith’s Kitchen in Princess Anne Hospital marks the first time that WH Smith’s own-brand store and food to go range have been brought together under one roof. The retailer is now planning to roll out the combined offer to more locations.
Matthew Hine, commercial and enterprise development manager, University Hospital Southampton said: “UHS is delighted to have secured a long-standing partnership with WH Smith and is proud to welcome Smith’s Kitchen to our Princess Anne Hospital site where the team will be providing a new café and retail offer that can be enjoyed by patients, staff and visitors.”
