Nakrotor

Whiteley’s Extraordinary History Now a large shopping centre, Whiteleys was the first London department store. The iconic building is often featured on London walks. William Whiteley travelled to London from Yorkshire with only 10 pounds, intending to make his fortune. He had worked in retail before so he decided to start there. The ambitious young man began with a small draper’s business in Westbourne Grove in 1863. Luckily this was just after the Metropolitan Line of the underground opened in Paddington. The new transport made it easier for shoppers to travel to the store. Whiteley’s Extraordinary Store Whiteley sold ribbons, lace, trimmings and fancy goods in the store. Soon he was able to enlarge into fashions and accessories, including jewellery and umbrellas. He was also able to employ 15 assistants. The new business did very well so Whiteley decided to expand by buying properties on either side. Soon he introduced cleaning, hairdressing, and food. By the 1880’s Whiteley em...