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2009 Lyons is re- launched to convey its timeless quality with new modern- retro packaging Gala Coffee becomes the new owner of the Lyons brand for coffee. 2000 Their coffee expertise and commitment to sustainability make them sound custodians of one of the UK’s most famous coffee names. 1981 Changing eating habits during the 1960s and 70s led to the eventual closure of all Lyons’ Teashops after more than 80 successful years. The one at Marble Arch was the last to close in January 1981 1973 Lyons Tetley is created following the acquisition of the American Tetley Tea Company, dedicated to tea, coffee and grocery brands. 1969 In the 1950s, as coffee bars began to catch on with teenagers, Lyons responded with the Wimpy Bar. By the late 1960s they were opening at the rate of one every week and had reached a total of 461 by 1969. 1954 Lyons developed the world’s first computer to be used for clerical tasks. It was called LEO, Lyons Electronic Office, and could calculate an employee's pay in 1.5 seconds instead of the 8 minutes that it took an experienced clerk. 1949 Lyons were legendary outside caterers. In 1925 they undertook the largest indoor banquet ever, simultaneously serving 7,250 people. Since 1899 Lyons were appointed caterers to the Royal Family. The occasion here is a Royal garden party in 1949. 1935 During the 20s and 30s Lyons commissioned several of the most celebrated graphic artists of the day to produce publicity material. This poster from 1935 invites guests to the Christmas and New Year celebrations at the Trocadero. 1928 Lyons opened the UK's first purpose built food technology laboratory, applying science to food manufacture, monitoring the purity of raw ingredients and their integrity through the production process. In 1949 a young chemist named Margaret Roberts joined the staff there. Thirty years later, now named Margaret Thatcher, she became Britain’s first woman prime minister. 1925 The iconic Nippy Waitress was created and the British public took her to their hearts. She became so fashionable that a play was written about her, a rose was named after her, and a racehorse and steam engine bore her name. 1921 Lyons develops a new ‘Coffee Essence’ – cheaper and easier to prepare, all social classes are now able to experience the popular Lyons flavour. 1909 Shown here in 1953, the Coventry Street Corner House was opened in 1909. Three more of these super-restaurants followed each employing over 400 staff. 1904 Lyons original blend coffee is established among high society, as its famous ‘real coffee’ flavour becomes known, loved and seen as a luxury. 1896 The famous Trocadero Restaurant opened in Shaftsbury Avenue, London, where a waiter in a fez and bolero jacket served Turkish coffee to the customers. 1894 The first Lyons Teashop opened at 213 Piccadilly, with around 250 more soon to follow. 1887 The Lyons empire is formed by Joseph Lyons and three entrepreneurial businessmen, serving the catering and food manufacturing industry.