Spiller's Records, Cardiff

Spillers Records located in Cardiff holds the distinction of being the oldest record shop in the world, a title confirmed by Guinness World Records. Established in 1894 by Henry Spiller in Queens Arcade, Spillers originally specialized in selling phonographs, wax phonograph cylinders, and shellac phonograph discs, and also handled repairs and sales of musical instruments. The business began to evolve under the management of Henry’s son, Edward, in the early 1920s, who expanded its offerings to include musical instruments, with the support of popular accordionist Joe Gregory.

The store became a fixture in Cardiff’s music scene, moving to a larger location on The Hayes in the late 1940s to accommodate its growing inventory and clientele. Spillers has been more than just a record shop; it has been integral to the city’s alternative music scene, serving as a primary location for purchasing concert tickets.

However, Spillers faced significant challenges, particularly in 2006 when a rent increase by its landlord, Helical Bar, threatened its survival. This led to a community campaign backed by notable figures such as Owen John Thomas, the Welsh Assembly, the Manic Street Preachers, and Columbia Records, showcasing the community's support for the iconic store. In response to these pressures, Spillers moved to Morgan Arcade in 2010 on what was initially a temporary basis, with hopes of permanency.