WH Smith cuts profit outlook amid Iran war disruptions
WH Smith cut its profit forecast and launched an equity raise as the Iran war disrupts travel. It cited lower passenger numbers and weak consumer demand.
WH SMITH PLC cut its annual profit forecast for the second time in two months and launched an equity raise on Wednesday. The United Kingdom retailer is struggling with falling passenger numbers and weaker consumer spending as the war in Iran disrupts global travel. For investors, the move signals a deepening liquidity crunch as the retailer faces its sharpest downturn since the dividend suspension in April.
### War and Inflation Hit Travel Demand WH Smith expects headline profit before tax to land between £75 million and £90 million for the year ending August 31, 2026. This is a drop from the previous forecast of £90 million to £105 million. The retailer said the outlook reflects observed declines in passenger numbers and weakening demand across all divisions.
