The Lost Sweet Shops of Sutton Coldfield
Emma Barran-Scott
- Regions:
- Shropshire, Staffordshire, West Mids, Hereford, Warwickshire, Worcestershire, Derbyshire
- Notice Period:
- Regular (more than one month's notice)
- Type:
- Professional, WI Groups, Rotary, History Societies, Townswomens Guild, Trefoil
- Fee:
- Paid: £75
- Category:
- History
- Updated:
- 5th December 2025
- Tagged:
- Sweets | Sweet Shop | Sutton Coldfield | Local History
The Lost Sweet Shops of Sutton Coldfield began in an unexpected moment back in 2009, during my very first talk. An audience member asked me about the sweet shop nearest to the venue, and I realised instantly that there was a whole new story waiting to be uncovered. That simple question planted the seed for what would become a major research project 16 years later.
In 2025, I dedicated a full year to exploring the sweet shops that once shaped Sutton Coldfield, from the earliest record I uncovered in the 1850s to the much-loved family shops people still talk about today. Along the way, I discovered forgotten shopkeepers, local favourites, and the cherished places where generations spent their pocket money.
This talk brings together those findings with warmth, nostalgia, and social history. It was proudly showcased as part of Birmingham Heritage Week, where it received an excellent reception, and it continues to resonate with audiences who remember these shops with affection.
"The talk was very well-received - you created a great informal atmosphere and getting people to recall their memories was a great idea. We definitely want you back!" ~ Organiser of Birmingham Heritage Week
Views: 4 | Enquiries: 0About Emma Barran-Scott
Hello, my name is Emma and I am the founder of Sweet Heritage and have been giving my talk, 'Sweet Heritage,' for the past 16 years. Ever wondered what happened to Spangles? How well do you know Bertie Bassett? Do you remember when 4 Black Jacks cost you a penny?
From rationing to retro tuck sop to long-lost local factories, I dive into the fascinating world of confectionery and the memories it holds for so many of us. My talks are light-hearted, full of charm and always tailored to the audience whether that's a WI group, a social club or a community event.
I arrive with samples of sweets and leave with smiles, laughter and lovely feedback. With 20 years experience of selling sweets and working in museums across Birmingham alongside a History Degree and Heritage Masters, I offer you my passion - a love of history and sweets.
My sweet CV includes working for Sela Confectionery, Cadburys and running a 1930s sweetshop for 7 years.
Talks available: The Original Sweet Heritage - an overview of the history of sweets and chocolate in the West Midlands Sweets and the World Wars - the impact the wars had on the manufacturing of confectionery
If you have a niche interest in sweets or chocolate, please get in touch, I can create bespoke talk for you.
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