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WHSmith, a distinctive British high street retailer, has lost millions of customers in Bolton, a significant blow for theCosmetics giant that had been struggling with declining sales. After six months, the store will close soon and has already lost around 2,000 staff, according to WHSmith. The company has surpassed its previous estimate of 1,500 closures and plans to close more in the future, targeting travel hubs like airports, railway stations, and hospitals before all 2025 closures are finalized.
At the same time, WHSmith has seen a surge in vinyl sales, popularizing the use of digital music players more than 60 years after its initial launch. The company recently announced plans to switch to an annual subscription model for vinyl sales, hoping to increase revenue from travel hubs across the UK. 15 stores will open in these new locations, and the aim is to capture 20% of the airport retail market in the US and Europe.
For fans of oldies, records may soon be easier to find at WHSmith, especially as vinyl sales have regained popular interest. Music fans will be able to purchase a variety of vinyl records across more than 80 stores across the UK, including standalone artists and vinyl ensembles. The company has already topped 80 records stores in 2025, but there are plans to open even more stores in the coming months.
Whether you’re a music lover or a music enthusiast, there are plenty of WHSmith locations where you can find classic vinyl or discover new music. From Barking toEdgbrook, customers can shop for their favorite tunes in stores that cater to everyone’s music taste. WHSmith hasn’t looked back, as it’s clear that music fans and craft listeners are on the fly. So whether you want a vinyl shirt, a vinyl CD, or just a music drink, you can find it here.
