Trading Statement

RNS Number : 9936O

WH Smith PLC

03 June 2015

 



WH SMITH PLC

3 June 2015

Trading Update for the 13 Week Period to 30 May 2015

Total Group sales were up 1% with like-for-like sales flat, compared to the same period last year.

In our Travel business total sales were up 8% in the period with like-for-like sales up 4%, reflecting the continued sales trends across our UK channels and our initiatives. Our 'Food to Go' range, the rollout of which was completed last summer, continues to be well received by our customers. We saw gross margin improvement and our new store opening programme, both in the UK and internationally, is progressing well.

In our High Street business total sales were down 4% in the period with like-for-like sales also down 4%, in line with expectations and our profit focused strategy. Gross margin improvement and cost savings have been delivered in line with plan.

We will continue to focus on profitable growth and cash generation while investing in new opportunities in both Travel and High Street that position us well for the future.  We remain confident in the outcome for the full year.

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Enquiries:

WH Smith PLC

Mark Boyle                             Investor Relations                            020 7406 6320

Nicola Hillman                       Media Relations                                020 7406 6350

Brunswick

Simon Sporborg / Cerith Evans                                                      020 7404 5959

 

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