WH Smith may leave high street as 500 shops up for sale

The WH Smith name could disappear from the high street after its owner put the legacy retail business up for sale, in a surprise move that creates uncertainty for its 5,000 staff.

- Kalyeena Makortoff

The retailer, which is listed on the stock market, confirmed it is seeking a buyer for its 500 high street stores, in a shake-up that would allow it to focus on its more successful travel arm, which has branches in airports all over the world. The 232-year-old chain is in talks with a handful of potential bidders.

While negotiations are focused on its 500 UK high street shops - which sell newspapers, books and stationery - it is understood that the use of the brand will be up for negotiation.