0811 GMT - WH Smith's acceleration in the key North America market should be well-received by investors, RBC Capital Markets analysts Richard Chamberlain and Manjari Dhar say in a note. Still, although the retailer's travel sales were in line with analysts' expectations, its high-street performance was a little softer than expected on an overall basis but better on a like-for-like basis, the analysts say. The retailer is expected to see a strong long-term travel growth along with cash returns, the analysts say. Its "forensic approach" to retailing should mean it is well-placed to expand successfully in the global travel essential retail segment, they say. Shares are up 6.55% at 1,268 pence. (anthony.orunagoriainoff@dowjones.com)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

January 29, 2025 03:11 ET (08:11 GMT)

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