Guy & Smith

Guy & Smith on Victoria Street, Grimsby in 1913

Joseph Guy opened a drapery store in October 1850 on North St Mary's Gate, which had been home to Mr Snow's drapery business since 1801.[1] By 1871 he had taken on a partner, Joseph Smith and new premises trading as Guy & Smith at 19 Victoria Street, Grimsby.[2] By 1913 the store had been rebuilt and its departments were costume and dress goods, millinery, silks, children's outfitters and furnishings.[3] The business was incorporated in 1920, and continued to expand purchasing neighbouring shops including the business of Lister's China shop and Holder Brothers piano store.[4]

The business continued to be an independent company until 1969 when House of Fraser bought the store.[5] The following year the business was renamed Binns (Grimsby) and by 1971 the store was completely rebuilt with 100,000 square foot of floor area.[6] As of June 2018 the store was House of Fraser Grimsby. It was originally earmarked for closure under initial CVA, but was later rescued after the Mike Ashley takeover.