The Safeway Branch of the RBL was formed in 1946, originally through Allied Suppliers when that company had its Head Office in the City of London .

          Allied Suppliers was among a number of companies and institutions based in the City with employees returning from the Second World War who formed their own "House Branch".  The purpose was that of comradeship and to help give financial support to many from the two World Wars who were less fortunate than themselves.

Allied Suppliers became Argyll Stores and in 1988 took over the U.K. part of Safeway.

          By 2003 the Safeway Branch had a membership of 245 split between pensioners and employees and raises funds for RBL charities, nearly £34,000 in 2002 (£13,000 by 11 riders in the Pedal to Paris). and "Car Raffle" raised £30,000 for the Poppy Appeal. The majority of our stores  support the RBL by inviting in collectors with their boxes.2

Safeway lorries also transport poppies for the Legion to the Royal British Legion Village in Kent , from the Poppy factory in Richmond twice weekly.

          Safeway have in previous years also sold Poppy Ale & continue to sell Poppy Whisky in selected stores.

          The highlight of the year is our Annual Re-union Dinner held in London on the Wednesday evening prior to Remembrance Sunday, at which we have a number of guests, including the current president of the RBL and an eminent guest speaker from the services. It is well attended along with Safeway pensioners and In-Pensioners from The Royal Hospital, Chelsea, who we have a long-standing association with, indeed, many of them are our customers at Safeway Chelsea!

          Safeway, together with Lloyds of London, are the only two remaining In-house branches, a tradition that we are very proud to maintain.