WHSmith’s recently announced plans to close a number of its UK high street stores and explore the possible sale of its high street retail arm will not impact the brand’s presence in Malta, a spokesperson has confirmed.
Speaking to this newsroom, Emma Sullivan, CEO of Miller Group, which operates WHSmith’s outlets in Malta, said that the changes only apply to high street stores in the UK, and not to those forming part of WHSmith’s travel arm, which includes airport, train station, and hospital locations.
As Malta’s WHSmith stores are located at Malta International Airport, they will not be affected by the restructuring plans.
WHSmith recently confirmed plans to close 17 of its UK high street stores by May 2025 as part of a strategic shift towards its more profitable travel-focused business. The company also announced that it is exploring the potential sale of its 500 high street stores, with the future of these outlets – including those which host Post Office branches – now uncertain.
The 233-year-old retailer has found stronger growth opportunities in its travel division, which accounts for 85 per cent of its profits across a network of stores in 32 countries, including India, North America and Australia. WHSmith’s travel stores, particularly those at airports and train stations, have benefited from increased passenger numbers in recent years.
Written By
Nicole Zammit
When she’s not writing articles at work or poetry at home, you’ll find her taking long walks in the countryside, pumping iron at the gym, caring for her farm animals, or spending quality time with family and friends. In short, she’s always on the go, drawing inspiration from the little things around her, and constantly striving to make the ordinary extraordinary.
