HISTORICAL FACTS: 2 - The Untold Story

Owner of WH Smith’s high street chain frontrunner to buy Claire’s UK business

Claire’s appointed administrators for its UK and Ireland business last month after filing for bankruptcy in the US.

The Independent UK · Sep 17, 2025

Full list of Hobbycraft closures as retailer confirms more shops to go

As part of a significant reorganisation, Hobbycraft is closing nine locations throughout the UK

Evening Standard · Aug 12, 2025

WH Smith cuts sale price of high street business after weaker trading

The retailer said buyer Modella had sought to renegotiate after recent trading had been ‘softer’.

Evening Standard · Jun 30, 2025

What does WH Smith’s new high street name TGJones actually mean?

New owner Modella says made-up moniker aims to evoke ‘sense of family’, but brand experts unconvinced

The Guardian - UK · Mar 28, 2025

WH Smith: History of the retailer as brand exits UK high street

Historic retailer WH Smith has quit the UK high street after 233 years.

The Independent UK · Mar 28, 2025

WH Smith changes name – and shoppers think it’s terrible

Brits have hit out at the ‘entirely made up’ new moniker

The Independent UK · Mar 28, 2025

WH Smith high street stores to be rebranded TG Jones after £76 million sale

WH Smith name will live on at airport and train station branches

Evening Standard · Mar 28, 2025