Travelers have raised concerns over the high prices at WH Smith outlets inside UK airports, with some accusing the retailer of excessive price gouging on everyday items. Investigations conducted across several airports found that common products such as bottled water, snacks, and mints were being sold at more than double the cost compared to other retailers located within the same terminals.

At Gatwick, Heathrow, and Glasgow airports, a 750ml bottle of Evian water was priced at approximately £4 in WH Smith stores, while the same product was available for as low as £1.80 in nearby shops. A packet of Walkers crisps cost £2.69 at WH Smith, more than twice the £1.30 charged by Boots within the same terminals. Similarly, Polo mints were sold for £2.69 at WH Smith, nearly 150% higher than the £1.10 price at Boots.

In London’s Victoria railway station, where competition among retailers is greater, WH Smith’s prices remained comparatively steep. The store charged £3.69 for a 750ml bottle of Evian, while Boots priced the same item at £2. Other products, including Walkers crisps and Polo mints, were also significantly more expensive than at competing retailers.

The criticism comes amid a challenging period for WH Smith. The retailer issued a profit warning and sold around £100 million worth of shares during the summer, attributing the downturn in international travel to the ongoing conflict in Iran. Over the past year, the company has closed approximately 480 high street outlets but continues to operate around 590 stores in travel hubs across the UK and more than 600 stores globally.

Consumer advocate Martyn James described the price disparity as “shameless overcharging,” noting that while airport retail environments bear higher operating costs, the level of markups at WH Smith far exceeds what is seen from other airport vendors. “While we may expect to pay more at the airport as a captive audience, WH Smith charges people far, far more than standard charges for items bought at airports,” James said.

A shopper at Jersey Airport expressed frustration after being charged £4.19 for a 500ml bottle of Coca-Cola, questioning the justification for such pricing.

WH Smith defended its pricing strategy, explaining that operating costs in airports are complex and significantly higher than other retail locations. The company pointed to its meal deals, multi-buy promotions, and selected £1 drink options as efforts to provide value to customers. It also stated that prices are regularly reviewed to maintain competitiveness.

As air travel continues to recover from recent disruptions, travelers are being advised to compare prices and explore multiple retailers in airport terminals to avoid overpaying for everyday items.