5 years ago... Safeway takes the PC plunge

25.06.99: UK supermarket chain Safeway is to enter the PC market by selling cut-price Fujitsu computers at 25 of its stores.

Safeway's move echoes that of rival retailer Tesco, which started selling Siemens PCs in October.

Last month, Safeway launched in-store public Net access points, giving the uninitiated web user the chance to browse as they shop.

25.06.04: So five years on and 'Safeway' as was is passing into obscurity following its acquisition by rival supermarket chain Morrisons.

However, the practice of supermarkets selling PCs has certainly continued apace since 1999 - even if it hasn't become a mainstay of their business models outside semi-regular promotions and special offers.

Similarly some have moved into the telecoms space as the modern supermarket distances itself from the image of 'just groceries' to become a one-stop shop for everything from tea to technology.