WH Smith, the struggling retailer and news distribution chain, is to split the two strands of its operation in August in order to give the business ‘more focus’.

Chief executive Kate Swann said: “With a strong team in place to run Smith News, the distribution arm, and the existing management in place to run retail as an independent company, both businesses will benefit.”
 
However, retail analyst Debbie Harrison said: “WH Smith is in a bit of bother from where I’m standing. Retail sales are struggling to meet expectations and the distribution arm could be in danger of being supplanted by new technology.
 
“The way the business is managed now is absolutely vital to its long-term success.”