You can freely build on How Clarence Saunders Invented the Modern Self-Service Grocery Store
This patent expired in 1936. Every claim — 0 independent, 0 dependent — is now unenforceable. Anyone can use, reproduce, manufacture, sell, or offer for sale this technology without a license.
Original assignee
Individual
Patent granted
1917
Expired
1936
Forward citations
22
What this patent covers
This patent describes a specific physical layout for a retail store designed to eliminate the need for clerks to fetch items for customers. It utilizes a one-way path through a series of aisles, forcing customers to pass by all displayed merchandise before reaching the checkout area. By arranging goods on open shelves accessible to the public, the design shifts the labor of gathering products from the store employee to the shopper.
What is now free to use
All 0 claims of US 1242872 are in the public domain. Specifically:
The 0 dependent claims add narrowing limitations and are also free.
What is NOT covered
Patent expiry frees this specific invention. Separately-patented improvements made after expiry may still be protected.
Does not cover automated checkout systems or self-scanning technology.
Does not cover stores that allow customers to exit without passing through a specific checkout turnstile.
Does not cover online grocery ordering or delivery services.
Who is building on this today
Major global retailers like Kroger, Walmart, and Tesco continue to refine the self-service model pioneered by Saunders. While the patent itself has long expired, the fundamental principle of customer-accessible inventory remains the standard for physical retail.
Products built on expired version of this technology
Piggly Wiggly stores
Modern supermarket layouts
IKEA store navigation paths
How to cite this patent in your documentation
Individual. US Patent 1242872. Self-serving store.. Granted 1917, expired 1936. Now in the public domain.
Note: This is a convenience citation. Consult a patent attorney for formal freedom-to-operate analysis.
PatentBrief is an educational resource and does not provide legal advice. Patent expiration information is derived from USPTO records and may not reflect continuation patents, divisional filings, or separately-patented improvements. For commercial use or production decisions, obtain a formal freedom-to-operate (FTO) opinion from a registered patent attorney.