Stores grew up – but then moved out

Despite radical changes in the economy leading to a slowdown in expenditure in certain areas, Ashford has often benefited from investment. And, where commercial business is concerned – bigger and better has often been the way forward.

Often we see some of our national chain stores develop and grow, and it can be argued that many have grown ‘too big’, especially when their size necessitates deserting the High Street, thus favouring out-of-town shopping. It is also the case that other once well-known chains have disappeared into oblivion.

Many examples of chain store growth and expansion in Ashford include names such as Sainsbury, which opened its first store in the town in 1934, then further stores in 1968, 1978 and 1992 respectively. Woolworth expanded their store in 1955 and Marks and Spencer moved to its second purpose built premises in 1978.

This week we take a look back at the High Street and in particular International Stores which once occupied a prime site in the town centre. The pictures venture back to 1957 and 1977 respectively.

Do you have you any photographs or slides that you would be willing to lend me, to be scanned and featured in the Kentish Express?

Write to me: Steve Salter, Kentish Express Remember When, Unit 4, Park Mall Shopping Centre, Ashford TN24 8RY, email me at rememberwhen_kmash@ hotmail.co.uk, or find me on Twitter @SteveKMAshford.

Or you can also leave a telephone message for me with brief details by calling 01233 623232.

Please supply a return address for the return of originals.