WHSmith is poised to launch its Christmas catalogue in the next two weeks, which will be double the size of last year.

The 100-page catalogue, which features more than 1,200 gift ideas including books, CDs and toys, will be available to pick up in stores in the second week of November.

WHSmith marketing manager for books and news Nicola Horne said: “The success of last year’s guide has resulted in us creating an even bigger catalogue this year.”

Last month, the retailer reported soaring group profits, but like-for-like sales dropped. Group pre-tax profits in the year to August 31 were£76 million – up from£44 million last year.

However, overall like-for-likes slumped 4 per cent. At the time, WHSmith said the drop reflected its strategy to “rebalance the mix” of its high street business towards its core categories.