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Household Shopping Without Tears
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Household Shopping Without Tears
The coffee counter of an American supermarket, untroubled by rationing in 1948. The concept of the supermarket where all manner of goods could be bought in one place, without the assistance of a shop keeper, and then paid for at a checkout, was first introduced in America where rationing did not feature following World War II. This picture was one of a series taken in an A&P supermarket; Americas largest chain begun in 1937 and with 1670 supermarkets by 1948
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Media ID 4370792
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10217321
1670 1948 Assistance Begun Bought Chain Coffee Concept Counter Feature Goods House Hold Introduced Keeper Largest Manner Paid Rationing Shopping Supermarket Supermarkets Tears 1937 Untroubled
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the moment of Household Shopping Without Tears in an American supermarket in 1948. The scene showcases the coffee counter of an A&P supermarket, a pioneering establishment that revolutionized the shopping experience. In a time when rationing was still a recent memory in many parts of the world, the concept of a supermarket where all manner of goods could be bought in one place, without the assistance of a shopkeeper, and then paid for at a checkout, was a groundbreaking innovation. First introduced in America, where rationing did not feature following World War II, the A&P supermarket chain had grown rapidly since its inception in 1937, with over 1670 stores by 1948. This photograph is part of a series taken in an A&P supermarket, showcasing the modern convenience and accessibility of this new shopping experience. The uncluttered counter, filled with various coffee brands and accessories, stands in stark contrast to the wartime images of long queues and rationed goods. The image is a testament to the transformative power of technology and business models in shaping the way we shop for our daily needs. The ease and efficiency of this shopping experience would become the norm in the post-war era, and the supermarket would become an integral part of American life. This photograph, with its historical significance and timeless appeal, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and the evolution of consumer culture.
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