What are some of the reasons why supermarket history is so interesting?
Posted: 08 May 2019 13:05
The research and discussion of old grocery stores isn't exactly a widespread or common field of interest. But all of us are here for that reason. What are some of the reasons why we find this topic interesting?
To me, there are several factors why. A city's supermarket history is often a microcosm of the city itself, paralleling other 20th and 21st century development patterns and population shifts. The research I do reveals stories about corporate foibles, economic pressures, anti-chain sentiments, and urban-to-suburban migration that may be difficult to pick up on in other contexts.
Grocery stores have more social significance than other types of retail stores because they're crucial: Everyone must eat. When I look at a closed or repurposed grocery store, my mind is overcome with vivid thoughts: What did it look like in its prime, with racks of produce, shelves of coffee and canned beans stacked high, and patrons constantly moving in and out through the doors? And what is the neighbourhood like that it once served?
A reason why chain supermarkets are interesting in a way that one-off independents can't always muster is that the very cookie-cutter "sameness" they're decried for results in a wealth of shared experiences and reminiscences that different people in vastly different places can socially connect over. And consistent, chainwide store designs (particularly the more-distinctive ones like Safeway marinas and Kroger superstores) are a fun challenge to look for and photograph on road trips; using physical evidence to piece together the puzzle of a larger entity.
Any other thoughts?
To me, there are several factors why. A city's supermarket history is often a microcosm of the city itself, paralleling other 20th and 21st century development patterns and population shifts. The research I do reveals stories about corporate foibles, economic pressures, anti-chain sentiments, and urban-to-suburban migration that may be difficult to pick up on in other contexts.
Grocery stores have more social significance than other types of retail stores because they're crucial: Everyone must eat. When I look at a closed or repurposed grocery store, my mind is overcome with vivid thoughts: What did it look like in its prime, with racks of produce, shelves of coffee and canned beans stacked high, and patrons constantly moving in and out through the doors? And what is the neighbourhood like that it once served?
A reason why chain supermarkets are interesting in a way that one-off independents can't always muster is that the very cookie-cutter "sameness" they're decried for results in a wealth of shared experiences and reminiscences that different people in vastly different places can socially connect over. And consistent, chainwide store designs (particularly the more-distinctive ones like Safeway marinas and Kroger superstores) are a fun challenge to look for and photograph on road trips; using physical evidence to piece together the puzzle of a larger entity.
Any other thoughts?