Quick Read
Shopping Patterns
Over the last 149 years the way we shop for food has changed dramatically, reflecting other social changes. Since its establishment in 1869, Sainsbury’s has adapted to meet the changing needs of its customers.
Long Read
Happy Birthday Sainsbury's
We look back at the 150 year history of one of Britain's biggest retail firms.
Long Read
Evolution of Packaging
The early range of fresh provisions sold by Sainsbury’s was weighed and wrapped individually, and any packaging was simple.
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A History of Innovation
Sainsbury’s has always had a flair for innovation, right from the day the first store opened.
Long Read
Self-Service
Sainsbury's were a leader in the development of self-service supermarkets in Britain after the Second World War.
Quick Read
Fairy Tale Tea Cards
At the beginning of the 20th century Sainsbury’s gave out collectible cards to promote its new range of teas. Find out more about this colourful and charming part of our collection.
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Carriers of History
Discover how the items customers carry their Sainsbury’s shopping in have changed over the years, from 19th-century paper egg bags to the modern 'bag for life'.
Quick Read
‘Food Glorious Food!’ at Portland Basin Museum
In 2021 the Sainsbury Archive worked with Michelle Hill, Curator from the Portland Basin Museum, Tameside, as part of the larger outreach project ‘Take One Ingredient’. In this guest blog Michelle talks through the different themes of the exhibition.
Long Read
The Birth of the Barcode
Look back at the evolution of barcodes which revolutionised retail and brought massive technological advances to our everyday lives.
Video Story
Archive Talk: The History of Homebase
Listen to Archivist, Allison Foster, give a talk about the time that Sainsbury's used to own DIY chain, Homebase.
Long Read
Home Delivery
Although home delivery of supermarket shopping may seem like a recent innovation, Sainsbury’s has a long history of supplying goods directly to customers’ front doors. This story delivers the details, from the days of horse-drawn carts to the internet age.
Video Story
Archive Talk: The History of Home Delivery
Listen to Archivist, Allison Foster, give a talk about the surprisingly long history of home delivery