England's first chain store sold tea in 1706
In 1706, Thomas Twining launched England's first chain store, making tea affordable and accessible, which fundamentally shaped British culture and modern retail.
In 1706, Thomas Twining opened the Golden Lyon in London, pioneering England's first chain store. Initially a single tea and coffee shop, Twining's quickly expanded by supplying other retailers and opening new branches, establishing an early multi-location retail model. This innovation arrived as tea transitioned from an elite luxury to an everyday commodity. By offering standardized, affordable blended teas, Twining's made tea accessible beyond the aristocracy, laying the groundwork for modern retail chains and cementing tea's place in British culture. Today, the original shop still operates as Twinings, holding a Guinness World Record as London's oldest tea shop.