Hipennine
During my recent passages through the airport, that WH Smith's has been shut
Unsure that this is correct !, 3 airside concessions that I am aware of & all seem open busy on recent transits.
There has been a certain amount of rearrangement of the food & beverage arrangements, which are possibly less accommodating of those not wishing to seat in the more defined areas.
You omit to clarify at what time of day, though I would however guard against too wide a conclusion based upon your observations.