While McDonald's UK recently marked its 50th anniversary, another iconic British food chain has been satisfying appetites for even longer. Greggs, the nation's go-to for sausage rolls and steak bakes, boasts a history that predates the global fast-food giant, having been founded in 1939.
From Humble Beginnings to High Street Dominance
The story of Greggs began not with shops, but with a bicycle. Founder John Gregg started by delivering fresh eggs and yeast to families in Newcastle alongside his wife. It wasn't until 1951 that the first Greggs Bakery opened on Gosforth High Street, selling fresh bread and baked goods.
After John's death in 1964, his son Ian took over, spearheading a major expansion throughout the 1970s. The company went public in 1984 and its growth accelerated, notably with the takeover of the Bakers Oven chain around the year 2000, pushing its site count past 1,000. The iconic square logo we recognise today was adopted in 2008.
A Modern Bakery Phenomenon
Greggs has continually evolved far beyond its traditional bakery roots. Its menu now includes sandwiches, soups, and the hugely successful vegan sausage roll. The chain is also known for surprising fashion collaborations, including a popular line with Primark.
Its physical expansion remains relentless. Greggs opened a record 220 new shops in 2023, followed by a further 140 to 160 the following year. With a current total of more than 2,450 outlets across the UK, the firm has publicly stated its goal is to reach 3,000.
Posh Pastries and Gold-Plated Treats
In a testament to its unique cultural status, Greggs has ventured into the world of luxury. A 2023 collaboration with Fenwick in Newcastle created 'Posh Greggs', offering a fine-dining experience complete with a champagne bar where pastries could be paired with drinks.
Even more strikingly, for London Fashion Week 2024, the bakery launched a 22-carat gold-plated jewellery collection. The range, crafted by artist Dion Kitson, featured items like sausage roll earrings and a charm bracelet priced at £96.
Beyond the glamour, Greggs operates several outlet stores in cities like Newcastle, Cardiff, and London, where day-old food is sold at a reduced price, helping to minimise waste.
From a single delivery bike to a high street institution with global recognition, Greggs has not only outlasted many competitors but has also reinvented itself for new generations, securing its place as a true British success story.
