Key facts
- WH Smith reported underlying pre-tax profit of £76 million for the year to August 31, 2026, down 30%, per The Independent.
- Chief executive Leo Quinn took aim at years of 'forced growth' at the retailer, The Independent reported.
- WH Smith shares fell for the second day running as shareholders questioned the turnaround.
WH Smith shares fell for a second consecutive day after the retailer reported a 30% drop in underlying pre-tax profit to £76 million for the year to August 31, 2026, The Independent reported on November 12, 2026.
Chief executive Leo Quinn took aim at years of 'forced growth' at the company, according to The Independent, but failed to convince shareholders that a turnaround is on the cards.
The report did not state the size of the share move or the prior-year profit figure.