Despite an economic downturn in the colony, his business thrived. He left the security of the dispensary and by September 1840 had opened his own shop in Hindley Street near Rosina Street with borrowed capital of £220. It, too, prospered, and soon he moved into larger premises at 67 Hindley Street opposite Club Lane.Harding William Bickford (1877–1919) was the youngest son of Harry (1843–1927)"The article reports on "A Valedictory Social" held for Mr Harding Bickford prior to his departure for England to "improve his knowledge of pharmacy". The gathering was presided over by Mr William Bickford (jr. – his uncle), who provided a summary of the history of the company, its key personnel, its locations and its business."</ref> As business flourished, the wholesale lines became the larger part of the firm's business.Advertisement for the sale of 700lbs of Blue Stone (ie.copper sulphate) "at a low price". Retrieved 31 January 2011</ref>