These adverts were published in trade union and labour movement journals between 1910-1929, and would have been targeted at a working class audience. They give general information about the costs of new items of furniture, including 'suites' to furnish particular rooms. Many of the adverts are for 'hire-purchase' companies such as Smart Bros. Ltd. and Downing's, both of Elephant and Castle, London. These firms allowed the purchaser to buy goods through a series of monthly payments rather than by paying the full sum in one go. The total cost of buying 'on the H.P.' would have been dearer than paying up front. Furniture could also have been purchased second-hand or passed on by family or friends.