In September 1817 Henry and William Matthews took over the grocery and apothecary business of George Houghton in Exeter’s Fore Street. The business became known variously as William & Henry Matthews and Matthews & Co. and as such is listed in Exeter directories at 101 Fore Street between 1831 and 1841. A series of advertisements, ranging from baby food to anti-ferment for cider, is to be found through the 1820s and 30s for their growing business. In April 1828 there were looking to recruit an apprentice.