Whatever happened to Penny Candy Stores?

There was something special about being a kid in Paris and going to one of the many corner stores we had They were a place where you could find all sorts of treasures, from candy and toys to snacks and drinks The stores might have been small and cramped, but they were full of possibilities. As you approached the store, you could feel the excitement building inside you. You might be with your friends, or maybe you're going solo, but either way, you knew you were in for a treat. The bell on the door jingles as you push it open, and you're hit with the sound of fridges running and the smell of sugary treats. You head straight for the candy counter, your eyes wide with anticipation. There are so many choices, it's hard to decide what to pick. Do you go for jawbreakers, fireballs, Laffy Taffy, hot lips, double bubble, wax bottles, sour candy, pixie sticks…? The list was endless! Maybe you'll get a little bit of everything You carefully count out your coins, hoping you have enough to cover your purchases. These stores were billed as “penny candy” stores The reason being is that you could walk in with ten cents and leave with a little paper bag full of goodies If you were lucky, you had a quarter! But it's not just about the candy.

The corner store was also a place to catch up on the latest news and gossip. You might run into your neighbours or classmates, and you'll swap stories about what's been going on in your lives. The store owner might chime in with a joke or a bit of advice, and you feel like part of a community As you leave the store, your pockets a little lighter but your spirits high, you feel like you've accomplished something You've navigated the world of commerce, made some new friends, and satisfied your sweet tooth all at once. It was a good feeling, one that you'll remember for years to come. Sadly, the corner penny candy stores are disappearing just like the pennies we used to buy candy with.