The centre opened on Tuesday, September 4, 1990.
Almost 35 years later, those remaining include big brands KFC, McDonald’s and M&S and independents Music Box, Olivers Childrenswear and Caffe Massarella.
The elite group of originals lost a member in March 2023 when Santander - formerly Abbey National - left The Arcade, blaming internet banking for a drop in customers. The remaining 20 made it through 2024 and are still going strong has Meadowhall heads for its 35th anniversary.
We list all the survivors here, with thanks to centre director Darren Pearce (who started in 1994).
13. Police control the crowds at the opening of Meadowhall in 1990.
Look closely and you can see shoe shop Freeman Hardy Willis in the background (now closed). Shops that opened on that day and are still going include: Superdrug, Pizza Hut, Greggs and F Hinds. Photo: ,
14. Three weeks before opening
A rare picture of Meadowhall three weeks before it opened, when Bovis Construction workers were still busy. Original shops still open today include: Supercuts hairdresser, Halifax, Clarks. Photo: .
15. Opening rush
The opening day rush on September 4 1990. Shops still open include: HSBC, Charles Clinkard, The Music Box and Olivers Childrenswear. Photo: Sheffield Newspapers