Then the internet came along and spoiled everything for department stores.
Some have managed to cling on in the face of ever-growing pressure, but many once mighty high street giants have fallen.
Those lost department store chains hold fond memories for many people who used to shop there, especially those who recall visiting the magical toy sections as a child, or being treated to a meal at the in-store cafe or some pick ‘n’ mix.
Below are nine of the biggest department store chains you’ll remember if you grew up in the 60s or 70s, and what made them so popular.
Between them, they once had hundreds of branches, and their demise has left a big hole in the nation’s high streets.
How many of these lost department stores did you shop at, and is your old favourite among them?
If you’re in the market for more retail-based nostalgia, you might like this look at high street chains that were huge in your childhood but are now struggling or defunct.
1. British Home Stores
BHS, as it was better known, was launched in 1928 and was for many years one of the biggest names on the nation's high streets. It was perhaps best loved for its lighting department, but it was also a popular place for people to buy school uniforms and underwear, while the in-store cafe served classics like egg, ham and chips. | National World
2. Binns
Binns began life in Sunderland in 1807 and expanded over the years, with stores in Hartlepool, Newcastle and Edinburgh, among other places. It was particularly popular for its clothing, and many shoppers also have fond memories of dining at the in-store restaurant. The chain was bought in 1953 by House of Fraser, but the Binns name remained in place for many years after. All the shops were eventually renamed House of Fraser, except for the one in Darlington, which still operates as Binns. | National World
3. Woolworths
Woolworths launched its first UK store in Liverpool in 1909, and it traded for 100 years on these shores until the last branches shut in January 2009. Many people have fond memories of buying pick 'n' mix there, and it was also a popular spot for music lovers and for children's clothes, toys and games. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
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4. Littlewoods
Littlewoods started out in 1923 as a football pools company before becoming a retail giant. It initially operated solely as a mail-order firm, with its first high street store opening in 1937, and people have fond memories of browsing the Littlewoods catalogue. Its cafes were particularly popular, especially for their full English breakfasts. The last Littlewoods stores closed in 2005, with many being sold to Primark. | Getty Images Photo: Phillips-Simpson/Fox Photos