At least half of WH Smith’s 500 high street stores could be closed by any new owner, industry experts say, raising the prospect of sweeping job losses at the ailing retailer.
Predictions for the eventual size of the chain, which employs about 5,000 people in its high street shops, range from no more than 250 stores. Offers for the group are expected in the next few weeks and a deal completed by early May.
