WH Smith’s stores in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire are at risk as the retailer explores selling its high street business, impacting thousands of jobs across Scotland.
They have over 5,000 employees and more than 700 stores in the UK. In the north-east, there are five stores. The company wants to focus on its travel retail business, which operates in airports and train stations.
Potential buyers include private equity firms like Hilco and Modella Capital. If the high street stores are sold, closures and job cuts may follow.
Analysts say WH Smith is not a poorly run business. However, if someone else takes over, store closures could happen. The company plans to close 17 stores this year due to online competition and changing shopping habits.
Paddy Lillis from Usdaw, the shop workers’ union, expressed concern for staff. He emphasized the need for a strong strategy to support high street businesses.
The company may keep the WH Smith name for its travel business. Analysts predict the sale could bring in over £100 million. Many of the 60 stores in Scotland are now at risk, especially those in airports and train stations.
Here are some WH Smith stores in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire that could be affected: St George Street, Bon Accord Shopping Centre, and Aberdeen Royal Infirmary.
