WH Smith

WH Smith has sold its 480 high street stores to private equity firm Modella Capital in a £42m deal, as part of its efforts to restructure its business and focus on its travel stores.

Summary of transaction details:

• Value: £42m
• Sector: Consumer Goods
• Advisor: Teneo, Slaughter and May
• Key Entities: WH Smith, Modella Capital
• Location: UK

Note: The sale is seen as a strategic move by Modella Capital to expand its portfolio of retail assets, but the new owner is facing significant challenges in turning around the business, with up to 150 stores potentially closing as part of an emergency restructuring.