WH Smith considers axing its high street stores after 230 years

The company has 520 high street branches across the country - (EPA)

WH Smith is in talks to sell its high street shops, the retailer has announced. The firm is talking to prospective buyers for its high street stores – which employ around 5,000 people – as it looks to focus on its travel branches.

In a statement, WH Smith said it is “exploring potential strategic options for this profitable and cash generative part of the group, including a possible sale.”