The name "TGJones" is not derived from an individual, but was invented by Modella Capital to sound similar to "WHSmith" (named after William Henry Smith) and thereby continue the implication of being a family business.[7] In terms of branding, TGJones is similar to WHSmith, with a similar text mark and blue-and-white colour scheme.[8]
WHSmith opted to sell the business in order to focus on its larger travel retail operation which accounted for 75% of its trading revenue and 85% of its profits in the last financial year. The WHSmith brand has been retained by the WHSmith group for its travel retail shops and other activities, meaning the high street business would need to be rebranded.[6] Despite not being related to its travel business, the card online retailer Funky Pigeon is not included in the sale and has been kept by WHSmith but with intentions to sell it.[9] The online stationery business Cult Pens was also retained by WHSmith.[10]
At the time the sale was agreed, there were 480 WHSmith high street stores.[11][12]
Following concerns from the Communication Workers Union, representing Post Office and Royal Mail staff, that the sale may cause "postal deserts" given the large proportion of branches inside the WHSmith high street stores, Modella insist they plan to make few changes, retaining Post Offices and Toys "R" Us sections within shops.[13]
In May 2025, Sky News revealed that WHSmith's 12 month long transitional services agreement with Modella Capital allowed for WHSmith to cancel the contract in the event of a company voluntary arrangement.[14]
On 30 June 2025, WHSmith completed the sale of the business at a reduced valuation of £40 million.[5]
On 1 July 2025, the website and social media were officially launched, as well as the first branded store in Aylesbury. At the same time, the company announced the closure of its store (and Post Office franchise) in The Broadway, Bradford.[17][18]
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