In pictures: WHSmith unveils new coffee store format for UK hospitals

9th January 2024

Georgia Wright

General Retail

WHSmith has launched its brand-new hospital coffee shop format in Sheffield which is set to roll out across the UK.

The new District Market Coffee concept has opened in Sheffield Northern General Hospital, featuring a 1084k sq ft “high-quality coffee shop and café” for those visiting or staying at the hospital.

Offering food and drink for both dine-in and takeaway and a 10% NHS discount across all
products, a second café is set to open in Sheffield Royal Hallamshire Hospital in the coming weeks, the retailer said.

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The business currently runs over 140 stores and franchises in hospitals across the UK and is one of the fastest growing areas of its UK travel arm.

In a statement, WHSmith said the launch of District Market Coffee adds to its existing range of formats currently operating across different hospitals including WHSmith, Marks & Spencer Simply Food, Costa Coffee, and more.

The retailer recently outlined that it sees opportunities ahead for at least one of its formats to extend into up to a further 200 hospitals.

WHSmith UK travel managing director Andrew Harrison said: “We are excited to
be opening the first District Market Coffee in the UK today. Whether it’s a quick bite to eat or a place to relax and recharge, District Market Coffee and its wide range of quality, locally sourced products is well set up to be a part of the hospital and wider community.”

“This launch is the latest example of WHSmith’s growing experience and expertise in working with Hospital Trusts to deliver relevant, modern and customer focused retail offers and we see further opportunities for growth ahead.”