The F.W. Woolworth Company was a retail company founded by Frank Winfield Woolworth in 1879. It became famous for its "five-and-dime" stores, which sold a variety of inexpensive goods, including household items, toys, and snacks. The chain was known for its innovative approach to retail, allowing customers to browse and select items freely. At its peak, Woolworth operated thousands of stores across the United States and internationally. The company played a significant role in the development of the modern retail industry, introducing concepts like self-service shopping. However, it faced challenges in the late 20th century and eventually closed most of its stores by the early 2000s.