North Yorkshire Food Shop Marks 125 Years of Operation

An independent food establishment in a North Yorkshire town is commemorating 125 years of business. Lewis & Cooper, self-identified as a gourmet grocery store, has operated in Northallerton since 1899. While its former trolley and pulley mechanisms for gathering customer requests are no longer in use, a significant portion of its merchandise has stayed consistent, according to the proprietors. Pam Andrassy, a member of the staff, characterized the anniversary as a “special time,” further stating: “Hopefully we will go on for another 125 years.” The enterprise continues to be managed by the progeny of George Lewis, who, alongside his business associate Binks Barton Cooper, acquired the grocery store where he was employed when it faced the threat of shutting down. Kayanne Smith, an employee at the shop for 25 years, remarked: “The way the high street is going, it is a wonderful thing that we’re still here.” The general manager attributed the company’s success to its “committed staff.” She commented: “While the shop is always keen to look at different trends, some people still like the old-fashioned products so it’s important to keep that balance.” Mr Bush’s Plum Pudding, a top-selling item at the establishment, originated solely at Lewis & Cooper. Employees mentioned that these puddings were initially retailed in a different small shop, which was “forced out of business” following the opening of a nearby supermarket. Following the sale of 7,000 puddings at the shop during their inaugural Christmas season, they are now available throughout the entire year. The establishment is renowned for its food hampers, assembled by Rouma Read. Ms Read has been affiliated with the enterprise for 21 years and stated: “I’ve really enjoyed working here and that’s why I’m still here. “It’s fantastic, it’s more like a family.” Mr Lewis and Mr Cooper acquired the business from their manager, Robert Brogden, in December 1899. They conducted business at the initial location for six years, prior to purchasing the adjacent chemist shop and relocating in 1905. The partners additionally purchased 18 workmen’s cottages for £2,150, which were converted into storage facilities. Patrons of that era would enter the store and convey their orders to an employee. The assistants would subsequently use a trolley to retrieve the merchandise from the storage areas. While waiting at the front of the shop, customers would deposit their payment onto a pulley system, which proceeded directly to the cashier’s office located deeper within the premises. The shop has since modernized its technology, yet its diverse selection of products persistently draws customers from extensive distances. Chris Nowland, visiting from Vancouver, Canada, was examining items in the cheese department and mentioned he had been “mesmerised” by the assortment. He stated: “I’m a cheese hound, you don’t get this kind of cheese in Vancouver, things like the Wensleydales,” adding, “So I’m taking advantage of that and taking a few back with me.” Mr Nowland expressed being “amazed” that the shop had operated for such an extended period. He observed: “It seems to have a good local customer base, everyone seems to know about it. I can see the appeal.” Pam Andrassy, who became part of the team a year prior, attributed the shop’s prosperity to its customer service and adherence to traditional values. Ms Andrassy remarked: “The power of a smile is important,” continuing, “Whether a customer is spending £5 or £500, they will be treated exactly the same, very special.” For highlights from North Yorkshire, tune into BBC Sounds, view the most recent episode of Look North, or share a story you believe warrants coverage here. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.