Grocery stores are an inevitable part of our daily lives and a staple for household essentials. That wasn’t always the case, though. The concept took off in the U.S. in 1916 with the founding of Piggly Wiggly in Memphis, Tennessee, setting the stage for future supermarkets nationwide. Before the era of Piggly Wiggly, Kroger, Safeway, Walmart, and other big names, independent shops dominated the market. Here’s a collection of vintage photos showcasing the evolution of grocery stores and supermarkets in the U.S. over time.
#1: Grocery Store Ready to Welcome Customers, 1962
In the 1960s, Piggly Wiggly supermarkets flourished, spreading across the country. Their efficient, science-driven approach featured uniform, approachable cashiers and attentive managers, enhancing the shopping experience for every customer.
Piggly Wiggly revolutionized grocery shopping with its self-service model, a stark departure from the traditional method where clerks gathered your items. This innovation paved the way for giants like Kroger and Food Lion, reshaping the retail landscape.