Borders to sell UK airport stores

Lorna Strickland

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Seven UK airport stores, including Books Etc outlets, are to be sold as Borders' non-core UK business is put on the market

WH Smith is reported to be considering acquiring Borders’ UK operations after the US bookseller announced it is hoping to sell its UK portfolio. The deal would cover Borders and Books Etc, including both brands’ airport stores.

Borders plans to keep its stationery business Paperchase. Analysts also expect interest from Barnes & Noble and UK bookshop Waterstone's founder Tim Waterstone.

Borders operates three outlets at London Heathrow airport, two at London Stansted, one at London Gatwick and another at Edinburgh International airport. 

Borders president George Jones said: “For us to be successful in reaching the goals we have for the US domestic superstore business, we must significantly reduce investment in the international segment and explore strategic alternatives.”

The company has hired Merrill Lynch to advise it through the sale and find a potential buyer. 

Keep an eye on RavenFox.com for more details as they emerge.