#9 WHSmith is dying, Diversify with Airbnb Experiences & Why businesses should invest in Bitcoin

This week’s newsletter covers three exciting topics... We’re talking about how WHSmith 's struggles could lead to new opportunities for small businesses, why Airbnb 's latest success is a sign of the times and why companies are diversifying into Bitcoin Inc. for growth and stability. This week it’s all about adapting to change and seizing opportunities.

Is the High Street Dead? Or Just Changing?

WHSmith, a staple of the British high street, could shut up to 250 stores under new ownership, raising fears of major job losses. As footfall declines and consumer habits shift, another big-name retailer faces an uncertain future (Remember Woolworths and Blockbusters!?).

But does this mean the high street is truly dead? Not necessarily. While legacy retailers struggle with rising costs, online competition and changing shopping behaviours, those who innovate, adapt, and focus on experience-driven retail are still thriving.

A Silver Lining? Falling Rents = New Opportunities

With large retailers downsizing, high street rents are falling, which creates opportunities for independent brands, startups and experiential retail spaces to take advantage of:

• Pop-Up Shops & DTC Brands – Online-only brands can test physical locations at a fraction of the previous rental cost. Fireworks shops and Christmas Market shops are great at this, could you follow in their footsteps?
• Community-Driven Spaces – Local businesses can reclaim spaces for co-working, events, or independent retail hubs.
• Experience-Led Retail – With lower costs, retailers can invest in immersive, interactive store experiences to drive footfall.
• Hybrid Business Models – Combining retail + café + event spaces to give customers more reasons to visit in person.

The lesson? The high street isn’t dead - it’s evolving. Those who adapt will find opportunities in the changing landscape.

What do you think—will falling rents spark a high street revival?

Monetising Space Differently: How Small Businesses Can Leverage Airbnb Experiences

Airbnb’s latest surge in share price is a reminder of how travel and experiences continue to thrive. But while most think of Airbnb as a platform for renting out properties, there’s an untapped opportunity for small businesses: hosting experiences.

From artisan coffee workshops to behind-the-scenes brewery tours, photography walks, or even hands-on crafting sessions, Airbnb Experiences allow businesses to monetise their space and expertise in a way that goes beyond traditional retail or services.

For small businesses with underutilised space, this could be a game-changer. Imagine a florist hosting bouquet-making classes, a bakery teaching sourdough workshops, or a gym offering unique fitness retreats. With Airbnb’s global audience, businesses can attract travelers who are eager to book authentic, local experiences.

This is more than just an extra revenue stream - it’s brand exposure, customer engagement and a way to future-proof your business in an experience-driven economy.

Is it time for small businesses to start thinking bigger? Would you host an experience?

Why More Companies Could (and Should) Diversify with Bitcoin

With inflation eating into cash reserves and traditional investments facing uncertainty, more companies are looking at Bitcoin as a strategic asset... and it’s not just tech startups. Tesla, MicroStrategy and even UK-based firms have allocated capital to Bitcoin, treating it as a hedge against inflation and an alternative to holding cash.

So why are businesses considering Bitcoin?

• Inflation Hedge – Unlike cash, which loses value over time, Bitcoin is designed to be deflationary, with a fixed supply of 21 million coins.
• Diversification – Companies like Tesla and MicroStrategy have shown that adding Bitcoin to a balance sheet can act as a counterweight to traditional assets.
• Borderless Transactions – As global trade becomes more digital, Bitcoin allows businesses to move funds internationally without relying on banks or outdated systems.
• Limited Trust in Banks – With interest rates fluctuating and financial institutions under pressure, some businesses see Bitcoin as a way to store value independently.
• Long-Term Growth Potential – Bitcoin has outperformed nearly every asset class over the last decade. While volatile, many businesses believe in its long-term upside.

Could we see more UK companies following suit? And is Bitcoin a smart hedge or too risky for balance sheets?

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Sources:

This Is Money https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/article-14380565/WHSmith-shut-branches-new-owner-fears-major-job-losses.html

MarketWatch https://www.marketwatch.com/story/airbnb-sales-forecast-just-misses-expectations-but-shares-rally-7e7cfff4?mod=home-page

Daily Express https://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/2014456/big-names-closing-shops-uk-february

https://www.dpgo.com/go/airbnb-experiences/

https://banxe.com/blog/useful/business-crypto-buy-sell-all-you-need-to-know/

Any opinions referenced in this newsletter (unless otherwise stated) are my own, and do not represent any views, opinions or statements from Acquired.com.