Woolworth

Woolworth refers to several entities, primarily associated with retail chains and stores, originating from the United States and expanding globally. The name is most commonly associated with the F. W. Woolworth Company, one of the pioneers of the five-and-dime store concept.

History

The F. W. Woolworth Company was founded by Frank Winfield Woolworth on February 22, 1879, in Utica, New York. The concept was revolutionary at the time, offering a variety of merchandise at fixed prices, typically five or ten cents. This model allowed customers to browse and select items without the need for assistance from sales clerks, which was a novel idea in retail.

Expansion

The success of the first store led to rapid expansion. By the early 20th century, Woolworth had become a household name in the United States. The company expanded internationally, opening stores in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Germany. The British branch, Woolworths Group, became particularly successful and well-known.

Decline and Legacy

Despite its early success, the Woolworth brand faced challenges in the latter half of the 20th century. Increased competition from other retail formats, such as discount stores and supermarkets, led to a decline in sales. The original F. W. Woolworth Company closed its remaining stores in the United States in 1997. However, the legacy of Woolworth lives on through its various offshoots and the impact it had on the retail industry.

Notable Woolworth Entities

• Woolworths Group (United Kingdom): The British arm of the Woolworth brand, which operated from 1909 until its closure in 2009.
• Woolworths Supermarkets: An Australian supermarket chain that is unrelated to the original F. W. Woolworth Company but shares the name.
• Foot Locker: A retail chain specializing in athletic footwear and apparel, which originated as a subsidiary of the F. W. Woolworth Company.

Related Pages

• Five-and-dime
• Retail
• Discount store
• Supermarket
• Frank Winfield Woolworth
• Foot Locker
• Woolworths Group (United Kingdom)
• Woolworths Supermarkets