In 1900, the conditions of ordinary working people were far removed from today's 'Welfare state' society.
No State pensions, sickness benefits or child allowance and the Poor Law system was still in existence, where the dreaded workhouse beckoned to those who had fallen on hard times.
Wages were generally low but prices remained high.

Some Friendly Societies and similar organisations had been in existence for many years but it was felt a more concerted effort was needed in an attempt to alleviate local hardship.

A co-operative society had begun and was prospering in nearby Blaina, based on a system pioneered in Rochdale - open membership, fixed rates of interest and a dividend paid on purchases.

The Blaina Society was approached with a view to encompassing Tredegar within its operation but finally a decision was taken to form a separate society to be known as the TREDEGAR INDUSTRIAL & PROVIDENT SOCIETY.

A five year lease was acquired on a property at The Circle, Tredegar and on 29th March 1901 the shop, dealing in groceries and provisions, was opened for business.

First shop at the Circle, Tredegar 1901

The venture was successful - customers and new members were attracted by fair prices, quality of goods and not least the promise of dividends and by 1904, the business relocated to new premises in Commercial Street, Tredegar.

By 1906, the society expanded - taking over the Blackwood Society and opening branches in Rhymney and Abertysswg.

Premises at Blackwood

Over the following years despite the setbacks of war, depression and strikes the Society managed to remain intact, and was even able to expand its interests into footwear, drapery, meat, milk and bread supplies.

Central Grocery Store, Commercial Street

Central Grocery Store Interior

Further branches were opened at Argoed, Markham, Oakdale, Pontllanfraith and Cwmfelinfach and now the Society's influence extended throughout the length of the Sirhowy Valley.

Sadly, the demise was to come - the 1960s brought new prosperity with customers now having more freedom of choice - the supermarket era had arrived and the Society found it difficult to adjust to the new trading conditions.
Today, even the 'Flagship' central store at Tredegar has long disappeared.