These images capture a period when independent grocers were a staple feature of almost every community. Nowadays many of these local shops have been replaced, taken over by, or even usurped by big branded takes on the humble corner shop, newsagents and so on.
Although a handful of local corner shops have managed to endure, many succumbed over the years, unable to rival the aggressive price-cutting of retail giants.
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Yet, independent grocers provided far more than simple convenience. Tailoring their stock to the specific tastes of regular shoppers, looking after loyal patrons, and serving as a hub for local news and friendly chatter, they formed a vital part of the community.
Their essential role to the community was ever more key during the Covid pandemic, when these local shops would remain open to supply key goods throughout a period of crisis.
This nostalgic collection highlights some of Sheffield’s best-loved grocery stores throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
How many of these shops and their owners do you recognise? And which of the old brands lining the shelves or being advertised do you miss most?
17. 1991
The Tourist and World Student Games Information Centre (left) and WH Smith, newsagent at Sheffield station in 1991. Photo: Picture Sheffield | Picture Sheffield
18. Retirement time
Retiring newsagents John and Joan Vessey in their Walkley Lane shop, Sheffield, July 20, 1996
19. 90 years in business
Pictured at Dickinson's Newsagents, Chapel Street, Woodhouse, Sheffield, who were celebrating 90 years in business. Seen, left to right: Donald Glover (83) who is the oldest ex-paper boy, Scott Dickinson, and Jamie Flint (17) the youngest ex-paper boy. They are seen with copies of the Star, and have sold over one million copies over the years, May 30, 1998
20. Threshers were once all over the place
Fulwood Road, Sheffield, showing Threshers off licence and West 10 restaurant and bar, some time between 1980 and 1999 | Picture Sheffield/Ted Mace