Liverpool is home to many famous shops that have proudly stood along our streets for decades.
From jewellers to record stores, greengrocers to department stores, the ECHO has taken a look at some of the city's shops that have stood the test of time. Remarkably, those listed below have not only survived the emergence of internet shopping, but world wars, recessions and even a pandemic.
Sadly, Liverpool has seen many shop closures over the years, so it makes the survival of these historic stores even more astounding. Despite the challenges thrown their way, they continue to thrive, serving our communities no matter what. It really is hard to imagine our city without them.
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Boodles
It’s only right we kick off our list - or should we say love letter - with the oldest independent jewellery store in Liverpool. Founded in 1798, Boodles has been serving our city for over 200 years, with the beautiful Boodles House standing proudly on the corner of Lord Street.
Whether you’re after a present for a special someone, or are looking for the perfect engagement ring, Boodles has you covered. The jeweller offers an extensive range of bespoke pieces, so it’s no surprise that it continues to be the go-to decision for luxury rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings and more.
The Musical Box
While vinyls are back in fashion, there was a time when CDs, iPods and MP3 players threatened the record business. One record store that survived this period is The Musical Box - Liverpool’s oldest vinyl shop.
A trip here is a music lover's dream, with the shop on West Derby Road having rows upon rows of vinyls covering a variety of genres. Founded in 1947, The Musical Box truly is a Liverpool gem that the city would be lost without.
TJ Hughes
Department store TJ Hughes emerged from Liverpool, offering shoppers everything from home furnishings to clothing and beauty all under one roof. The company sadly went from having over 50 stores across the UK to just six in 2011 after going into administration.
One of those remaining department stores is right here in Liverpool, and it’s safe to say it’s a firm favourite among shoppers in our region. Although TJ Hughes has changed buildings since it first opened on Liverpool’s London Road in 1912, the brand has stood in our city for over 100 years.
Adam’s Apple
Liverpool adores its family-run businesses, and Adam’s Apple is no exception. The greengrocers first appeared in our city in 1969 when brothers Doug and Roger opened their very first store in Maghull.
Despite the abundance of supermarkets and value stores that keep popping up on our streets, Adam’s Apple continues to thrive, with Liverpudlians going back to them for their fruit and veg time and time again. The branch on Allerton Road is the last remaining Adam’s Apple and has been serving the community for over 35 years.
W J Edwards Jewellers
Another jewellers that has more than 100 years of experience is W J Edwards based on Prescot Road in Old Swan. The family run business was founded in 1918 and offers a pawnbroking service and sells new and second-hand jewellery.
W J Edwards continues to successfully compete with high street jewellers, with it being the go-to destination for many locals who are looking for a special piece of jewellery for themselves or to give as a gift.
Andrew Collinge
If you want a snazzy new hairdo that won’t disappoint, Andrew Collinge is the place to go. Having been in business for over 80 years, the hair salon is another Liverpool success story. The first Andrew Collinge opened in West Derby in 1940, the creation of Wilfred and Molly Collinge.
Their son Peter took over, with the baton then passing to Peter’s son, Andrew. Despite the emergence of many hair salons across our city, Andrew Collinge continues to thrive. The expert hairdressers also pass on their knowledge by training the next generation. The company has salons across the North West, with the current flagship Liverpool store being based on Castle Street.
B. Shrigley & Son
Another Allerton Road favourite is B. Shrigley & Son. Since 1966, the fishmongers has been providing fresh fish to the local community. Like with Adam’s Apple, B. Shrigley & Son continues to thrive despite competition from supermarkets and value stores.
Whether you want a lovely piece of salted cod, or something a little more exotic, B. Shrigley & Son is the place to go. As previously reported in the ECHO, they’re happy to have a good chinwag, too!
Which old shops in Liverpool are your favourites? Let us know in the comments section below.
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