The boss of WH Smith responds to Newtown museum and branch closure news.
Sean Toal, Managing Director of WH Smith High Street, cited shifting shopping habits and financial challenges as key reasons for the closure of the local WH Smith museum and shop in High Street.
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Mr. Toal expressed the difficulty of the decision, emphasizing the store's long-standing history both within the company and the local community.
He noted, "WHSmith in Newtown has been an important store for the business and has served as a reminder of our proud history since it was restored to its original condition over fifty years ago."
Local sentiment regarding the closure has been one of anger, with Montgomeryshire's Senedd Member, Russell George, urging WH Smith executives to reconsider the move.
In response to concerns about the store's museum, Mr. Toal outlined plans to relocate valuable items to either the High Street support center in Swindon or the WHSmith Archive at Reading University.
Efforts will also be made to preserve the historic fixtures and fittings with the building's landlords to ensure their protection for future generations.
While the closure represents a significant shift for Newtown's retail landscape, it reflects broader challenges faced by high street stores nationwide.
Mr. Toal concluded, "Our High Street business remains an important part of the Group; however, we need to ensure our store estate reflects how customers are shopping today, and that we are in locations where our presence is sustainable over the long term."
