When the smell of cheese and fresh bacon dominated George Street

"Initiative and enterprise when combined provides efficiency and service", quotes Mr Sainsbury when visiting the store prior its opening.

The store is described as an imposing structure, graceful and clean, with rich internal decoration, treading stone mosaic flooring, walls panelled with tiles from floor to ceiling, and a perfection of utility in the cleanliness of the arrangements.

The counters running full length both sides of the store are topped with marble-facing coloured tiles with everything behind the assistants' counters adapted for the purpose to retain cleanliness, which was paramount.

Glass screens were mounted on the edge of each counter to protect the food and customer's garments, including the store assistants who were dressed in spotless white uniforms in-keeping with their surroundings.

The warehouse at the rear of the store was carried out with rigorous efficiency to maintain hygienic principles, the area included two cool air chambers where the produce is received and handled before it enters the store.

The department that attracted a great deal of attention was the "Dainties Counter", the food all prepared in the firm's model kitchens.

Supplies were delivered daily; no stock was kept until sold, fresh replacement of goods was essential for continued quality of the produce.

Delivery to customers was equally prompt with a fleet of motor vans ready to carry goods to customer's homes around Luton, the reception orders were taken by telephone, with no extra charge for delivery.

Forty men and women were employed at the Luton branch, some living on the premises. They were accommodated with a rest room, kitchen, dining, and sitting room, described as a very cheerful apartment area.

The site on which the new building stands in George Street was the private residence of the Sworder family, and had been for many years, however, Dr Horace Sworder a well-known townsman left the district, and the property was sold to auction.

Mr Sainsbury ends his speech quoting:"Something noble in conception has now arisen on the ashes of an honoured past".

I say: "You could smell the aromatic scent of cheese and fresh bacon along the length of George Street", such fond memories!