Lombard – WH Smith (SMWH) finds travel broadens margin and revenue lines. Profit from international arm helps chain stay strong
Barclays (BARC) hits back at activist Edward Bramson. UK lender warns investor ‘would be disruptive influence on the board’
Associated British Foods (ABF) – Primark inches towards first online trial. Low-cost fashion retailer looks into click-and-collect service as it opens largest store
WH Smith (SMWH) boosts dividend with travel unit ascendant. Sales growth at airports and station stores outweighs decline on high street
Grant Thornton’s audit of Interserve (IRV) to be probed. Move by Financial Reporting Council comes weeks after outsourcer collapsed into administration
Ted Baker (TED) picks new chief as probe finds ‘areas for improvement’. Appointment of Lindsay Page follows accusations against Ray Kelvin
