WH Smith and the British High Street Crisis: Does It Deserve to Survive?

London, UK – January 28, 2025 – Once a staple of the British high street, WH Smith is now at the center of a fierce debate: does it deserve to survive? As retail struggles across the UK, many believe that the once-iconic brand has failed to evolve, leading some to argue that its decline is inevitable.

WH Smith has been a fixture in towns and cities for over 230 years, known for selling books, magazines, stationery, and snacks. However, its presence on the high street has become increasingly controversial. Unlike other retailers that have adapted to changing consumer habits, critics claim that WH Smith has remained stagnant, failing to modernize its stores or improve its customer experience.

A Relic of the Past?

For years, WH Smith has been criticized for its overpriced products, cluttered stores, and outdated shopping experience. Many consumers argue that the retailer has become complacent, relying on expensive convenience-store-style pricing rather than offering competitive value or a compelling shopping environment.

Retail analyst Jonathan Marsh explains, “WH Smith hasn’t kept up with changing consumer expectations. Its stores often feel uninspiring, and in an era where online shopping dominates, it offers little incentive for people to visit in person.”

The Great High Street Decline

The debate surrounding WH Smith is part of a larger issue: the slow collapse of the British high street. Many beloved retailers, from Debenhams to Woolworths, have disappeared in recent years, victims of changing shopping habits, high rents, and increased competition from online giants like Amazon.

With the cost-of-living crisis impacting consumers, spending habits have shifted. Shoppers are more inclined to seek out value and convenience, something WH Smith is increasingly failing to offer. While bookstores like Waterstones have successfully reinvented themselves, focusing on curated selections and a modern retail experience, WH Smith has largely remained the same.

Should WH Smith Survive?

As calls grow for a reinvention—or even a potential closure—opinions remain divided. Supporters argue that WH Smith plays an important role in UK retail, especially in locations like train stations and airports, where its presence is still significant. Others claim that its persistence is a testament to its historical value, even if its main high street stores have become outdated.

However, detractors see WH Smith as a business that has relied too long on its legacy rather than adapting to modern consumer expectations. “It’s not enough to be a heritage brand,” says retail expert Fiona Reynolds. “If you don’t innovate, you become irrelevant.”

What’s Next for WH Smith?

Whether WH Smith will turn its fortunes around remains uncertain. Without major changes, it risks becoming the next casualty of the high street’s decline. But for now, the debate continues: should WH Smith be saved, or has its time run out?