Waitrose was founded in 1904 by Wallace Waite, Arthur Rose and David Taylor as a small grocery called Waite, Rose & Taylor in Acton, West London. The name "Waitrose" was adopted in 1908 after David Taylor left the business.
In 1937, the company was acquired by the John Lewis Partnership, the UK's largest employee-owned business. This unique ownership structure means all employees are Partners who share in the responsibilities and rewards of the business.
Today, Waitrose operates 329 stores across Great Britain and the Channel Islands, including 65 "little Waitrose" convenience shops. Known for its premium positioning, the company holds a royal warrant to supply groceries, wine, and spirits to King Charles III.