In a move marking the end of an era and the start of a new chapter, the iconic WH Smith on Bangor’s High Street has officially rebranded, now trading under the name TG Jones. This transformation is part of a larger sale of WH Smith’s high street division to investment firm Modella Capital earlier this year.

After 233 years on the high street, WH Smith’s high-street division was sold in a deal valued at around £76 million, covering 480 UK stores across town centres, shopping centres, and retail parks. The stores are being relaunched under the new name TG Jones, while WH Smith continues to operate its profitable travel retail business in airports, railway stations, and motorway service areas.

The name TG Jones was selected by Modella to echo the legacy of WH Smith while introducing a modern identity. Much like William Henry Smith gave his name to the historic chain, the fictitious “TG Jones” evokes a sense of familiarity, local heritage, and family ties—qualities Modella hopes will resonate strongly with communities.

What’s Changing in Bangor

Shoppers in Bangor will already have noticed the new signage being installed, with the traditional WH Smith lettering now replaced by bold TG Jones branding. Store interiors are expected to receive gradual updates over the coming months, though the core product mix of books, stationery, periodicals, and greeting cards will remain the same.

The Bangor branch will also retain its Post Office counter, a service that has become increasingly important for locals following the closure of standalone Post Offices across North Wales.

Reaction on the High Street

The rebrand has been met with mixed feelings from shoppers. Some Bangor residents expressed nostalgia for the WH Smith name, which has been a familiar presence for generations.

“It feels strange not seeing WH Smith on the High Street, it’s been there as long as I can remember,” said a local resident. “But as long as the store keeps the same books and stationery, I’ll still shop there.”

Others welcomed the change, seeing it as a chance for the chain to refresh itself at a time when many high streets are struggling.

“If TG Jones brings in something new and keeps investing in Bangor, then that can only be a good thing,” said another shopper.