WH Smith has confirmed it is looking at selling off its high street stores as it focuses on travel hubs and hospitals.
Following "speculation" in the press over the weekend, the retail giant confirmed today it was "exploring potential strategic options" which included a "possible sale".
It comes as the firm revealed 85% of its trading profit comes through its "travel business", with stores in the likes of airports and train stations, as well as those in heavy footfall areas like hospitals.
In a statement issued on Monday morning, the company said: "WHSmith confirms that it is exploring potential strategic options for this profitable and cash generative part of the group, including a possible sale.
"Over the past decade, WHSmith has become a focused global travel retailer. The group's travel business has over 1,200 stores across 32 countries, and three-quarters of the group's revenue and 85% of its trading profit comes from the travel business.
"There can be no certainty that any agreement will be reached, and further updates will be provided as and when appropriate."
The BBC reports around 200 of its stores contain a Post Office counter which is staffed by WH Smith employees.
A Post Office spokesperson said it is in contact with WH Smith "to understand more about their plans for their high street stores".
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