For a generation of British shoppers, the disappearance of Woolworths from the high street left a void that newer chains never quite filled. But now, a little-known family-owned department store chain is sparking waves of nostalgia, with customers claiming a visit is just like stepping back into the beloved 'Woolies' of the 1990s.
What Is Boyes And Why Is It So Popular?
The retailer in question is Boyes, a business that currently operates more than 80 stores across the United Kingdom. While it has a strong presence in the north of England, its expansion means southern shoppers are increasingly discovering its unique appeal. Founded back in 1881 by William Boyes in Scarborough, the company has grown from a single shop selling odd lots to a significant retail presence.
So, what's the secret to its cult following? According to a flood of social media posts and customer reviews, it's the store's astonishingly wide and eclectic product range that triggers powerful nostalgia. Unlike more focused discounters, Boyes sells a seemingly random assortment of goods, from craft supplies and clothing to bedding, beauty products, and even food.
'A Blast From The Past': Shopper Reviews Pour In
Online, customers are effusive in their praise, directly comparing the experience to the heyday of Woolworths. One detailed Facebook review from Karen Gilfoyle went viral, succinctly capturing the store's essence. "It's probably easier to list what they DON'T sell: Live elephants. That's about it," she wrote. "It's a blast from the past, when Woolworths and similar shops sold virtually everything you could ever want."
Other reviewers echo this sentiment. Sebastian Palmer, a regular at the March branch in Cambridgeshire, hailed it as an "old fashioned department store" with a "staggeringly wide range of products." He noted the friendly staff and competitive prices, often finding everything from DIY supplies and fishing tackle to bird feeders. Jane Edgley praised the hard-to-find fabric and wool section, while David Learner called it a place for "family-friendly items you never knew you needed."
More Than Shopping: A 90s Time Warp
The nostalgia isn't just about the stock. Many shoppers report that the stores themselves retain a distinctly retro aesthetic, further strengthening the Woolworths comparison. TikTok users have branded it a "retro supermarket," with one user, @milliemayememorycorner, noting the floors look exactly as they did in childhood. A reviewer of the Scarborough store said it was like "stepping back into 1987," pleading with the company to never update its branding.
This unique combination of baffling variety, bargain prices, and a time-warp atmosphere has cemented Boyes' reputation. As the high street continues to evolve, this family-owned firm proves there's still a passionate audience for the classic, everything-under-one-roof department store experience once epitomised by Woolworths.
