UK retail group WH Smith said today it was braced for a competitive Christmas after it reported lower sales over the last ten weeks of trading.

British retailer WH Smith said today it was on track to deliver profits in line with expectations, despite a 6% fall in like-for-like sales in the past 20 weeks.

WH Smith boss Kate Swann today said the revival of the British retailer was marginally ahead of schedule, despite the impact of “subdued” trading conditions.

British retail group WH Smith confirmed plans today to separate its news distribution arm from its retail business.

WH Smith today became the latest high street retailer to reveal a sales fall over the festive season but said better margins meant profits were up.

Falling demand for precious metals sent mining stocks plummeting today as the Footsie slumped to its lowest level in six weeks.

The FTSE 100 Index was more than 50 points lower today after mining stocks dealt a hefty blow to the London market.

WH Smith today said annual profits from its high street stores almost doubled after halting unprofitable promotions and putting more emphasis on books and cards.

UK retail chain WH Smith today said its recovery drive was on track despite high street conditions remaining tough in recent months.

British retailer WH Smith reported a sharp jump in half-year profits today after benefiting from efforts to turn around the ailing high street business.

Ailing British retailer WH Smith today unveiled annual losses of £135m (€196.5m) following an “unacceptable performance” by its high street business.

UK retailer WH Smith announced an “important milestone” in its revival today after agreeing to sell its Hodder Headline book publishing arm for £223m (€337.6m).

TAKEOVER speculation surrounding WH Smith heightened yesterday amid reports the struggling retailer could be about to attract further bid interest.

Takeover speculation surrounding WH Smith heightened today amid reports the struggling retailer could be about to attract further bid interest.

UK stationary group WH Smith has been criticised for awarding its new chief executive £1.2m (€1.7m) in one-off payments not linked to performance, following a poor Christmas performance for the company.

London’s leading shares edged back into positive territory today, drifting in morning trading on what is expected to be a lacklustre end to the week.