The popular discount stores of the early 20th century didn’t emerge overnight. Many startups and small chains either merged with or were consolidated into bigger companies. One distinctly American retail phenomenon was the five-and-dime store, which began in the 19th century and became wildly popular in the 20th century. Numerous aspiring retailers experimented with new business ideas to attract bargain-hunters.
Among these entrepreneurs was John P. Brittan, who, along with his younger brother Percy, formed the Brittan Brothers company. The brothers had worked in retail for several years before opening the first Britt’s discount store on Riverside Avenue in Spokane in 1915. Following the success of their Spokane location, they expanded with stores in Walla Walla, Yakima, and Portland.
In 1924, the Brittan brothers relocated their original store from Post Street and Riverside Avenue to a new spot in the remodeled two-story Wolverton Building at Riverside and Wall Street. At this time, the store’s name was updated to include the phrase “5 cent to $1,” broadening the range of inventory they could offer.
The Britt’s store adhered to the classic discount formula. Advertisements from 1924 showcased items such as wicker laundry baskets for 25 cents, brooms for 15 cents, and salted peanuts for 10 cents a pound. These affordable prices helped draw in customers looking for value.
Meanwhile, the J. J. Newberry company was making a significant impact on the retail market. Founded by John Josiah Newberry with his first store in 1911 in Pennsylvania, the fast-growing company acquired the Britt’s store chain around 1930, at which point Newberry had reached 300 stores.
In 1946, Newberry demolished the downtown Britt’s store and, by around 1950, constructed a new section that extended over more than half a city block behind a single storefront. The lower level included a long lunch counter, providing a space for shoppers to rest and dine. Newberry also operated stores at Shadle Center and University City Mall.
John P. Brittan passed away in 1935 at the age of 54 due to a neuromuscular disease. His brother Percy remained with the Newberry company for several years before relocating to Portland, where he started other business ventures. Percy died in 1947.
Following the broader decline of dime stores through the late 20th century and the emergence of other discount retailers, the downtown Spokane Newberry store eventually closed its doors in 1991, marking the end of an era.
http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2025/oct/27/then-and-now-britts/
