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First Supermarket

Shoppers queuing at the Piggly Wiggly checkouts
Shoppers queuing at the Piggly Wiggly checkouts

Historical Context

Piggly Wiggly was the first true self-service grocery store and the originator of various familiar supermarket concepts such as checkout stands, individual item price marking and shopping carts.

The concept of the "self-serving store" was patented by Saunders in 1917.

Photo Info

Photographer: Clarence Saunders
Location taken: Memphis, Tennessee, USA

Related Events

  • 1916-09-06 1st true supermarket, the "Piggly Wiggly" is established by Clarence Saunders in Memphis, Tennessee, grand opening delayed by construction until the 11th


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Historical Photos