Greggs

Greggs began in 1939 when John Gregg started selling eggs and yeast from a bicycle in Newcastle upon Tyne. The first shop opened on Gosforth High Street in 1951, and under the leadership of John's son Ian Gregg, the chain grew steadily through acquisitions, most notably the purchase of 250 Bakers Oven shops in 1994. By the early 2000s, Greggs had transformed from a traditional bakery into a nationwide fast-food retailer, known for its sausage rolls, steak bakes, and pasties.

The company has consistently adapted to market trends. In January 2019, the launch of a vegan sausage roll generated significant publicity and a surge in sales, despite backlash from some commentators. Greggs now offers a wide range of sandwiches, salads, sweet treats, and a breakfast menu. Its loyalty app and partnerships with delivery services like Just Eat and Uber Eats have expanded its reach. As of 2024, the chain operates over 2,500 outlets across the UK, with plans to reach 3,000.

Greggs is publicly traded on the London Stock Exchange (FTSE 250) and reported revenue of £1.81 billion in 2023. Its headquarters remain in Newcastle upon Tyne. The brand's identity is built on affordability and accessibility, with a social media presence that is humorous and self-aware. Limited-edition products, such as the Festive Bake, drive customer engagement. While mostly UK-focused, Greggs has a small number of shops in Belgium near military bases.[edit]