// WHSmith has seen sales ahead of pre-pandemic levels for the first time as revenues rose off the back of a strong recovery in travel
// Revenue in the 15 weeks to June 11 was ahead of 2019 levels for the first time
WHSmith sales have surpassed pre-pandemic revenue levels for the first time as travel returns and Bris spend more on hotels as well as books and snacks at airports and train stations.
The travel and convenience retailer said its performance was so strong during the third quarter it now expects its full-year results to be at the upper end of expectations.
In a trading update, the group revenue in the 15 weeks to 11 June was ahead of 2019 levels, sitting at 107%
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In the UK, overall revenue for the period was 104% on 2019 levels, with its travel arm hitting 107%.
According to the business, sales in all its key travel markets are recovering, as public transport demand has shot up in recent months while airports have seen a booming return of passengers travelling further afield.
However, its high street division, which includes the business Funky Pigeon, was just 79% on 2019.
The greetings card seller was hit by a cyber attack in April which led to customers’ orders being cancelled and trading temporarily suspended.
WH Smith said it was in a “strong position” to benefit from “significant growth opportunities across the global travel retail market”, with more than 125 new stores in the works.
“While the broader global economy remains uncertain, the group is well positioned to capitalise on the ongoing recovery in our key markets and take advantage of the many opportunities ahead,” the update on Wednesday stated.
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