Where did it all begin for Tesco and Amstrad?

The most prolific multinational corporations of today had to start somewhere. For example did you know Tesco and Amstrad both started in London. Years of hard work, investment and a little bit of good luck meant some of the budding startups of 100 years ago have gone on to become some of the biggest brands in the world today. But how did they do it?

The government-backed Start Up Loans Company has taken a look back at where it all began and produced an interactive timeline featuring some of the world’s major brands. You can follow Tesco and Amstrad’s journey’s and find out how they got to where they are today.

The timeline shares some little-known facts about Tesco, Amstrad and the other businesses and details some key turning points over the past 100 years that have shaped the businesses we know today.

For example, did you know…

• Tesco began as a market stall in London’s east end back in 1919
• In 1965, Amstrad began with a 17 year old Alan Sugar selling reconditioned TV’s from his house in Hackney, London
• Tesco launched its healthy eating range in 1985
• In 1973, Amstrad’s profits stood at £194,000

David English, Chief Marketing Officer at The Start Up Loans Company, said:

“This timeline details the journey of some the biggest brands in the world. It just goes to show that it wasn’t always as glamorous as it is now, and often these companies started out doing something completely different.

“We wanted to show how hard work, business sense and the right amount of money can go a long way. Who knows where launching a startup might take you?”

You can read the piece here: www.startuploans.co.uk/100-years-start-ups

Feature image : © Copyright Martin Bodman and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.