The vast trade which passed through Liverpool's historic docks was managed and organised in an increasingly specialised and sophisticated business district. New and ever-larger offices, banks, warehouses and salerooms, often innovative in design and of spectacular architectural quality, were built in a highly concentrated area, which powerfully represents the confidence and prosperity of the period. This book, attractively illustrated by photographs and drawings, tells the story of the business quarter from the 18th century to the present day and emphasises that conservation of historic commercial buildings is important in retaining the area's distinctive character.