Share Repurchase Programme

23 August 2012

WH SMITH PLC

SHARE REPURCHASE PROGRAMME

WH Smith PLC continues to be cash generative and has a strong balance sheet. Since the financial year ending 31 August 2007 the Group has returned £377 million to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks as part of its long term strategy to create value for shareholders.

In August 2011, WH Smith PLC announced a share repurchase programme for the financial year to 31 August 2012 of £50 million. This programme was completed on 7 August 2012. 

The Board has decided to instigate a further share repurchase programme of up to £50 million for the financial year to 31 August 2013. The Board will commence a non-discretionary programme to purchase ordinary shares for cancellation during its close period which commences on 1 September 2012 and is scheduled to end on 10 October 2012.

The Company confirms that it currently has no unpublished price sensitive information.

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Enquiries:

WH Smith PLC

Mark Boyle Investor Relations 020 7851 8820

Nicola Hillman Media Relations 020 7851 8850

Brunswick

Simon Sporborg 020 7404 5959