WHSmith expands into UK hospitality sector with launch of Smith's Kitchen café format

Retailer WHSmith has made a significant move into the UK hospitality sector with the launch of its new own-brand café format, Smith's Kitchen.

First Location Opens at Princess Anne Hospital in Southampton

On August 15th, Smith's Kitchen café marked its entry into Southampton's culinary scene by opening at Princess Anne Hospital, where visitors can enjoy a warm atmosphere in the café's 26-seat dining space and sample expertly roasted local coffee paired with hot breakfast dishes.

Plans for Further Rollout Across UK Hospitals

WHSmith aims to expand its stores offering a mix of retail products and prepared foods at more UK travel destinations, starting with hospitals.

The retail company owns a total of 590 outlets throughout the UK, located within major transportation hubs such as airports, hospitals, and railway stations.

Expanding into New Markets

WHSmith sees opportunities to extend one of its formats into at least 200 more hospitals, as well as potentially expanding into other sectors such as airports and railway stations.

WHSmith has a history of experimenting with different hospitality concepts, such as partnering with Ca'puccino to develop a unique retail experience at Heathrow's terminal 2 and offering Costa Coffee concessions in its various locations throughout the UK.

'Whether it's in a hospital or on their journeys, customers tell us that quality food and drink options are what they prioritise most in the different locations we serve.'

Andrew Harrison

Customers of WHSmith's travel business have consistently indicated that they value quality food and drink options above all else in various destinations.

The launch of Smith's Kitchen marks a substantial departure from WHSmith's traditional retail model, as the company seeks to capitalize on the growing demand for convenient and appealing dining options.