WHSmith, a cornerstone of British high streets, is set to close 17 stores across the UK between January and May 2025. The closures, which come after years of challenges for the retail industry, mark another blow to local shopping areas already grappling with declining foot traffic.
The announcement follows the closure of two branches in Bournemouth and Luton on January 18, with several more stores set to shutter in the coming weeks. The retailer has attributed the closures to unsustainable trading conditions at certain locations, a reflection of the broader pressures facing high street businesses.
Impact on Local Communities
The closure of WHSmith stores has sparked concerns among residents and local business advocates, who fear the loss of these shops will exacerbate the decline of UK high streets. One Bournemouth resident expressed their frustration, stating, “Another shop closing—so sad to see this. Bournemouth is almost a ghost town.”
This sentiment is echoed by residents in March, Cambridgeshire, where the local WHSmith branch is set to close on January 25, leaving more than 20,000 people without a nearby store. Similar closures are planned in other towns, including Bolton, Accrington, and Newport, further reducing the presence of this iconic retailer in local communities.
Reasons Behind the Closures
A WHSmith spokesperson acknowledged the difficulties, stating that the closures are due to specific locations becoming “no longer sustainable.” While the retailer continues to operate over 1,100 stores nationwide, it has committed to closing up to 20 locations annually over the next three years.
In addition to financial pressures, the broader retail sector faces challenges such as:
- Increased costs of operations: Rising expenses, including rent and utilities, have made some stores unviable.
- Declining footfall: The shift to online shopping has significantly reduced traffic in high street stores.
- Economic challenges: Inflation and reduced consumer spending have placed additional strain on retailers.
Despite these closures, WHSmith plans to open 90 new stores in airports, train stations, and hospitals, reflecting a strategic shift toward locations with higher foot traffic and demand.
Everything-Must-Go Sales
In preparation for the closures, several WHSmith branches have launched clearance sales, offering customers significant discounts on stationery, books, and other items. These “everything must go” promotions are an opportunity for locals to snag bargains before their stores shut permanently.
However, the sales also underscore the challenges faced by high street retailers, as reduced margins and heavy discounts further strain profitability.
The Broader Context of Retail Struggles
WHSmith’s closures are part of a wider trend affecting the UK retail landscape. The British Retail Consortium reports that rising costs and changes in consumer behavior have led to the closure of over 13,000 retail sites in 2024, a 28% increase compared to the previous year.
Looking ahead, the Centre for Retail Research predicts an even more challenging 2025, with 17,350 retail sites expected to shut and over 202,000 jobs at risk. According to Professor Joshua Bamfield, director of the CRR, “We are likely to see retail job losses eclipse the height of the pandemic in 2020.”
A Strategic Shift for WHSmith
While high street stores face closure, WHSmith is doubling down on its expansion into non-traditional retail spaces. The company plans to open new outlets in airports, train stations, and hospitals, where customer demand remains strong. This approach aligns with its broader strategy to adapt to changing shopping habits by focusing on convenience and travel retail.
Additionally, WHSmith has introduced Toys R Us concessions within some UK stores, aiming to diversify its offerings and attract younger shoppers.
Full List of WHSmith Closures in 2025
Here are the locations confirmed to close by May 2025:
- Bournemouth, Old Christchurch Road – January 18
- Luton, Bedfordshire – January 18
- March, Cambridgeshire – January 25
- Basingstoke, Hampshire – February 1
- Newtown, Powys – February 15
- Winton, Bournemouth – February 15
- Rhyl, Denbighshire – February 15
- Bolton, Greater Manchester – February
- Accrington, Lancashire – March 15
- Halstead, Essex – April
- Halesowen, West Midlands – April
- Diss, Norfolk – April
- Newport, Wales – April
- Haverhill, Suffolk – April 26
- Stockton, County Durham – May
- Oldham, Greater Manchester – May
- Orpington, Greater London – Date TBD
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