Rahbek’s mini-market

In 1960–61, grocer Rahbek set up his shop in Gedved near Horsens according to the most modern principles of self-service. He installed a freezer, a refrigerated counter, shopping trolleys and shelving with price tags on the front – and the customers took care of the rest themselves. However, there were still a few goods that Rahbek sold over the counter. A coffee grinder with three different blends, a large display of sweets in glass bubbles, and a wine and spirits section were not part of the self-service concept.

During the 1980s, the grocery shop closed down. It then stood untouched until Den Gamle By acquired the interior in 2007. Today, it is set up in a 56 m² shop.

From around 1950 to 1974, grocery shops developed at a rapid pace. Self-service replaced the grocer’s assistant behind the counter, and the range of goods expanded dramatically. Bakers, coffee merchants and dairymen now faced competition from grocers offering pre-packaged, industrially produced goods such as frozen foods, milk in cartons, sliced bread in plastic bags and vacuum-packed coffee.

Shopping Had to Be Quick
The mini market also indirectly reflects the rise of women in the workforce during the 1960s. They no longer had time to visit specialist shops on their shopping trips. Grocery shopping needed to be quick and efficient. With the growing availability of refrigerators and freezers, people could also store food for much longer than before.

Open every day from 1 April.