Fri, 09 Jul 2021 | BUSINESS SALE
Swindon-headquartered retailer WHSmith has acquired 18 stores, 17 of which are former Dixons Travel stores, as it plans to bring its US InMotion brand to the UK. The acquisition includes many stores in major UK airports, as well as some train stations.
Dixons Carphone announced that it would close its 35 Dixons Travel outlets in April, following the devastating impact of COVID-19 on travel as well as the end of duty-free shopping in the UK. The closures impacted around 400 staff, 200 of which WHSmith says it will now take on.
Dixons’ decision to close the stores reflected an apparent pessimism on the company’s part about the return of travel to pre-pandemic levels. However, WHSmith appears to be betting on a recovery, saying that, in a “fully recovered travel environment”, it expects the stores to generate annual revenue of around £60 million.
The acquisition includes stores at major UK passenger hubs, including at airports such as London Heathrow, London Stansted, London Luton, Manchester, Birmingham and East Midlands. The stores will now join the InMotion brand as WHSmith seeks to expand the chain from the US.
WHSmith acquired InMotion in 2018, with the business’ more than 100 stores across more than 40 US airports doubling the retailer’s international travel operation. Despite WHSmith’s high street and travel operations continuing to be hit by factors including COVID-19, the company says that it is “encouraged” by improving trends over recent weeks as lockdown restrictions have eased in the US and UK.
Along with the acquisition of the Dixons Travel stores and expansion of InMotion, WHSmith has also confirmed plans to expand into new areas. The company said: “Going forward, we see further opportunities to win additional WH Smith stores in airports and hospitals and we are well positioned as travel markets recover and passenger numbers increase.”
Find businesses for sale here.
If you are looking for an exit, we can help!
This family-run artisan bakery and coffee shop, established over 30 years ago, is nestled in an affluent North East suburb and is celebrated for its freshly baked goods and exceptional service.
LEASEHOLD
This opportunity allows a buyer to acquire a well-established tool retail business with a strong track record and loyal customer base, located in the East of England. With a comprehensive product range and potential for growth through online sales an...
FREEHOLD
Nestled in the heart of the Lake District, this established retail business has been a trusted name in Norwegian clothing for nearly three decades. Renowned for its premium selection of natural wool products, the store is dedicated to quality, sustai...
LEASEHOLD
Please choose your settings for this site below. For more information please read our Cookie Policy
These cookies are necessary for our website to function properly and provide you with access to all features.
These are analytics cookies that help us to improve the way our website works.
These are used to improve the functional performance of the website and make it easier for you to use.