The world famous Robert Opie Collection – an ever-evolving and unrivalled collection of seemingly everyday objects amassed over 45 years, is revealed in the Museum of Brands, Packaging and Advertising. The vibrant collection tells the story of over 150 years of British consumer society and numbers over 12,000 original items; some are obviously significant in their own right, but many, including sweets, washing powder boxes, posters, toys, household appliances, food packaging and fashions, only reveal their significance when seen as part of a body of objects unfolding as visitors progress through the Museum’s time tunnel.

Decade by decade, the Museum identifies objects which have the power to unlock memories; products long since consigned to history, design classics, or long- forgotten childhood toys. But beyond the ability to inspire fond memories, the Museum traces changes in social trends, style, design, fashion, entertainment, communications, travel, transport and behaviour that have transformed life in Britain. Even a short time among the 10,000 items in the Museum galleries can reveal hidden meaning and significance behind seemingly one-dimensional objects.

The Museum also presents the great inventions of the past – among them the radio, television, computer, vacuum cleaner – with some well-loved examples, the 1895 Gower-Bell telephone, the 1911 Star Vacuum Cleaner, the 1890 Rippingille oil warming stove and the world’s first portable gramophone, the 1909 Pigmy Grand.