WH Smith’s Basingstoke branch has launched a closing down sale following last month’s announcement that the long-standing store will close early next year.

Located at The Malls shopping centre, the store has been a fixture in the town for more than 56 years but will officially shut its doors on Saturday, February 1, 2025.

This follows WH Smith’s plans earlier this year to close a number of locations across the UK, though Basingstoke was not initially included.

The retailer has also recently expanded its presence at airports and train stations, with new branches planned at key travel hubs.

READ MORE: Basingstoke branch of WH Smith closing putting future of town Post Office at risk

The retailer has now placed sale signs in its windows, offering discounts on a wide range of items as it winds down operations ahead of the closure.

The sale has drawn both loyal customers and bargain hunters, with many stopping by to take advantage of the offers and bid farewell to a store that has served the community for decades.

The closure decision, attributed to WH Smith’s upcoming lease expiry and changing trading conditions, has also raised concerns over the future of the Basingstoke Post Office, which moved into WH Smith in 2019.

The Post Office has confirmed that they are in the process of finding a new operator to take over the branch.

Officials hope to make an announcement about a new operator soon.