Pennies of Andover marks a milestone. It celebrates 50 years in business, serving generations of customers.
Penny’s granddad and dad started the store in the 1970s after her dad left the RAF. They also owned the George at Thruxton pub at the time.
The shop moved around Andover, including locations in the Chantry Centre and Waterloo Court. It has been in Shaws Walk for 25 years.
Penny took over the shop in 1990. It began on Union Street and moved as it became more popular. Penny has seen many shops close, but her shop is still there.
She enjoys seeing returning generations of customers. Ian Field, Penny’s fiancé, said the shop’s long run is amazing, and he thinks no other town shop has lasted so long.
Good service is key as they give advice and are polite. Ian has helped Penny for five years and noted their service during the lockdown.
They delivered items directly, and customers left money outside. They never charged for delivery, and Penny said free delivery helped the country.
Penny doesn’t know how much longer she will run the shop, which has survived pandemics and recessions. She will serve customers as long as they come.