Series Premiere, The 1980s Supermarket, March 27, 2024, Channel 5

Step back in time to the lively aisles of Britain’s supermarkets in the 1980s with brand new series “The 1980s Supermarket.” This three-part documentary series takes viewers on a nostalgic journey through the retail landscape that forever transformed grocery shopping. Tune in on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at 9.00pm to immerse yourself in this captivating exploration.

In this episode, viewers will witness not only the expansion of supermarkets but also the cultural shift that influenced British tastes and shopping habits. It’s an insightful tale that reveals the profound changes that turned grocery shopping into a retail revolution.

Through interviews and archival footage, we’ll delve into how supermarket giants like Tesco and Iceland reshaped the industry by outperforming small-town favourites with their strategic prowess and unwavering efficiency. We’ll also explore notable milestones such as Sainsbury’s Savacentres and the emergence of buy-one-get-one-free promotions that epitomised a decade where bigger was deemed better and convenience reigned supreme.

But this series goes beyond examining supermarket success stories; it dives into the iconic food items that defined an era. Prepare for a deep dive into culinary nostalgia as we investigate beloved products like Potato Waffles whose catchy jingles still echo in our memories. With insights from Dr Chris Clarke in his lab, we’ll uncover the scientific secrets behind keeping these waffles perfectly crispy.

We’ll also shed light on culinary innovations such as pre-packaged sandwiches which originated from surplus ingredients at Marks & Spencer’s in-store café. And who can forget those luxurious slices of Viennetta that adorned dinner tables across the nation?

Adding even more flavour to this episode is renowned TV chef Rustie Lee who will demonstrate her expertise by whipping up a homemade quiche Lorraine while pitting it against a ready-made supermarket version.

“The 1980s Supermarket” is not just a journey through the aisles; it’s an exploration of cultural change, nostalgic memories, and the fascinating stories behind everyday products. Join us on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at 9.00pm as we step into the golden age of grocery shopping.