In 1890 Charles Ernest Wooding, son of George of Wellingborough, came to Rushden, then aged 17, and was an assistant at B. Denton and Son's grocery shop in High Street. His brother, Frederick Wooding (born 1877) came to Rushden and managed the same grocery shop. Charles took other positions, travelling around England.

In 1899 Frederick married Florence Kate Hart, and they lived in Griffith Street.

Charles returned to Rushden in 1907. The brothers bought the grocery shop from Denton's, and became partners.

Rushden Echo, 31st January 1908 Large Assortment of Fancy cakes, fancy tins of biscuits, muscatellies, bonbons, figs, and everything good for parties, at the old noted shop, Wooding Bros. (late B. Denton and Son), High-street.

Sadly Charles died in 1908, and in 1909 Frederick was declared bankrupt.

The following year Frederick and Florence had moved to High Street South, and opened a buisness in Florence's name.

Rushden Echo, 26th August 1910, transcribed by Peter Brown F K WOODING, grocer, is now open at No. 59, High Street South, Rushden (nearly opposite the National Schools), with a first-class supply of groceries and provisions. Having been thoroughly acquainted with the local grocery trade for the last fifteen years, F K Wooding thoroughly understands the requirements of the people of Rushden. All orders promptly attended to, and goods delivered immediately in any part of the town or district. Excellent stock of seasonable specialities.

Soon they moved to 23 Church Street, with their 4 children, Roland Jack, Dorothy, Marjorie, Frank. Baby Bob was just 14 days old when the census was taken in 1911.