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The shops had a number of standard features (from Wiipedia): "....... wide polished black granite band above the shop windows for signage, metal vent grates bearing the company logo, billiard halls on the upper levels, window lights showing the locations of other Burton stores, and mosaic titles - sometimes including the company logo - in the doorways".
"At ground level, foundation stones were often placed by Montague Burton's four children, Barbara, Stanley, Arnold and Raymond. Each store might have one or several foundation stones, each bearing one name and the year".
I noticed the edge of the Burton building in the Bull Ring (once stood next to the Times Furnishing building) in this photo posted by Stitcher on the Bull Ring 1930s to 1950s thread. The building shows several features of those mentioned in the quote. But sadly the building has gone.
I've seen Burton buildings with the plaques mentioned in the quote but not in Birmingham. They're about 12" square at street level. The one I saw had four stones on one building. So keep those eyes peeled ! Viv.
A classic Burton shop survives today on Stratford Road. And still has a snooker hall above - not sure if it's still in use. Images courtesy Google Streetview. Viv.
ive had some very funny looks in the past froth...especially when taking photos of old urinals at the back of what used to be a pub..got to be done though