Join me for a trip down memory lane as I look at Barbie’s available for sale in 1996.
The Argos catalogue, a prominent feature of British retail, was first introduced in 1973. It became a household staple, often referred to as the “Book of Dreams” due to its comprehensive collection of consumer goods ranging from toys to electronics. The catalogue allowed customers to browse, order items in-store, and then wait for their purchases to be brought from the storeroom.
Throughout its history, the Argos catalogue released biannual editions, typically for spring/summer and autumn/winter seasons, and special Christmas editions. This format remained popular for decades, particularly with children who eagerly anticipated the latest toy selections each Christmas .
However, the retail landscape changed with the rise of e-commerce. In 2012, Argos announced a shift in focus towards its online operations, reducing the number of printed catalogues. By 2019, after Argos was acquired by Sainsbury’s, the company began closing or relocating many standalone stores and integrating Argos outlets within Sainsbury’s supermarkets, further decreasing the need for printed catalogues .
Despite the decline of the physical catalogue, Argos has preserved its legacy by creating an extensive online archive, celebrating its nostalgic value. This archive, dubbed “The Book of Dreams,” offers digital versions of old catalogues, allowing people to reminisce about past products and the cultural moments they represent .
For more detailed explorations and access to the digital archives, you can visit The Book of Dreams and Retromash.