WH Smith PLC, commonly known as WH Smith, is a prominent player in the retail trade services sector, headquartered in Great Britain. Founded in 1792, the company has evolved significantly, establishing a strong presence in the UK and internationally, particularly in travel retail and high street locations.
Specialising in books, stationery, newspapers, and magazines, WH Smith distinguishes itself through its extensive product range and customer-centric approach. The company has achieved notable milestones, including a robust online presence and strategic partnerships that enhance its market position. With a commitment to quality and convenience, WH Smith continues to be a trusted destination for consumers seeking a diverse selection of retail goods.
+35 vs industry average
Wh Smith’s score of 69 is higher than 79% of the industry. This can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
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Industry Intensity
Retail Trade Services has below-average carbon intensity
Industry performance
The Retail Trade Services industry has reduced its overall emissions by 31% since 2018
Emissions trajectory 2020 – 2028
Reported emissions
Scope 3 accounts for ••• of total emissions.
Wh Smith's reported carbon emissions
WH Smith plc, a UK-based retail trade services company, has reported significant carbon emissions across its operations. For the year 2024, the company's total emissions were approximately 516.2 million kg CO2e. This figure is comprised of Scope 1 emissions totalling about 1.38 million kg CO2e, Scope 2 emissions at approximately 1.81 million kg CO2e, and substantial Scope 3 emissions amounting to about 513 million kg CO2e.
In 2025, WH Smith's Scope 3 emissions were reported at approximately 383.5 million kg CO2e, with the largest contributors being purchased goods and services (about 32.6 million kg CO2e) and employee commute (about 11.1 million kg CO2e). Data for Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions were not available for this year.
The company has established ambitious climate targets, aiming to reduce absolute Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 80% by 2030, using a 2020 baseline year. This commitment aligns with keeping global warming to 1.5°C. Furthermore, WH Smith has set a goal for its UK buildings to achieve net-zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions by the end of 2021, and for its international buildings by the end of 2025. The company has also committed to ensuring that 75% of its suppliers, by emissions covering purchased goods and services and upstream transportation and distribution, will have science-based targets by FY2027.
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Wh Smith’s Climate Goals (2030 & 2050)
2 goals2025
We have set a target to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions from…
We have set a target to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions from our UK buildings to net zero by the end of 2021 and from our international build…
2030
62% reduction in total GHG
Vs 2019 baseline. Validated by SBTi. Includes full supply chain.
2040
50% reduction in Scope 3 intensity
Across purchased goods and services and logistics.
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Scope 3 top emissions categories
9 of 15 categories disclosedSee all scope 3 categories
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Climate initiatives

Science Based Targets Initiative

Carbon Disclosure Project
The Climate Pledge
UN Global Compact Climate Champions initiative
RE 100
Climate Action 100
Emissions comparison with industry peers
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Common questions about Wh Smith’s sustainability data and climate commitments
Data year: 2024
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