British stationery giant to close another store within weeks

The high street giant, which opened its first store in 1792, significantly changed its property portfolio in 2020.

While the retailer once operated large shops which sold everything from stationery to books, it has since become a staple outlet in airports, hospitals, and railway stations.

WHSmith customers in Manchester will be the latest Britons to lose their local branch after it was announced that the city would close the site on Market Street.

As the retailer already sells books, stationary and convenience products at more than 1,100 stores across the country, the site is not expected to be replaced.

It joins countless other retailers in losing brick-and-mortar sites from the British high street this year.

READ MORE: Costa Coffee axes UK cafes in widespread high street closures

WHSmith shops closing in 2023

The branch located on Market Street, Manchester opened in 2017 but is already preparing to close its doors for the final time on December 2, 2023.

A spokesperson said: “We are sorry to confirm that our WHSmith store in Manchester Arndale will be closing at the beginning of December.

“We are very disappointed to be losing our presence in the shopping centre and would like to thank all our customers for their support and for shopping with us.”

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They continued: “We are also extremely grateful for the commitment of our in-store colleagues who we will support with this transition and redeploy to nearby stores, where possible.”

While loyal customers will have to find an alternative branch for their stationery and travel needs, they can grab some bargains in the coming weeks.

The WHSmith site has already started a closing-down sale for Britons who browse the high street to enjoy.

WHSmith customers will not need to travel too far for another location, however, as nearby WHSmith stores will remain open.

These are both located in railway stations in the city centre, so they’re much smaller than the Arndale site that is closing down.

Shoppers in Manchester looking to get their WHSmith fix can head to Piccadilly Railway Station on London Road or the outlet at Victoria Station, Todd Street, Station Approach.

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