Sainsbury’s marks the 50th anniversary of its first petrol station, opened in Cambridge on January 10, 1975. Initially offering petrol at 68p per gallon, the station featured electronic payments that overwhelmed demand, causing long wait times. The store, part of a significant expansion for Sainsbury’s, also introduced non-food items and attracted large crowds during its opening amidst a national shortage of staple goods. The original branch’s unique offerings and customer convenience set a precedent for future supermarket services.