WH Smith posts flat like-for-like sales
Book and stationery retailer WH Smith saw its group sales rise by 2% in the 14 weeks to 4 June although like-for-like sales were flat.
During the period the group’s high street business continued with its profit focused strategy, with sales in line with expectations. Total sales dropped by 4% while like-for-like sales edged down 3%.
In the retailer’s travel division, which includes stores at airports and rail stations, sales rose by 9% on a total basis and by 3% on a like-for-like basis. The sales performance reflected the division’s ongoing investment in its UK business and an improvement in passenger numbers.
In a statement WH Smith said: “Looking ahead we continue to focus on profitable growth, cash generation and investing in the business to position us well for the future. We remain confident in the outcome for the full year.”
