Boots History - The Jesse Boot Era 1885 - 1890

Jesse had ambitions for Boots to be a nationwide chain and his store network grew rapidly: in 1890 he had just 10 stores, but by 1914 this had risen to over 550 stores throughout England, Scotland and Wales.  The range of products sold also expanded beyond traditional chemist’s lines – from stationery to silverware and picture framing, as well as the introduction of new services like Booklovers Libraries and cafes in the larger stores.  Many of these new lines and services were fostered by Jesse's wife, Florence. The growing retail side of the business was partnered by a growth in manufacturing of Boots own brand products and research into new pharmaceuticals and chemicals. Sites on Island Street and Station Street in Nottingham housed Boots growing factories, warehouses, laboratories and offices.