A process for the preparation of 3-substituted thiophenes which involves cyclization of a novel intermediate, avoids the use of previously employed expensive starting materials. The thiophenes are useful for the preparation of penicillins and cephalosporins.The process is for the preparation of a thiophene of formula (I): ##STR1## where R.sup.1 represents a carboxylic acid group, or an ester or amide thereof or a nitrile group; R.sup.2 represents a group suitable for use as an .alpha.-substituent in the side-chain of a penicillin or cephalosporin; which comprises treating a compound of formula (II): ##STR2## wherein X represents halogen or optionally functionalized hydroxyl, Y represents halogen, hydroxyl, or alkoxy; with a source of nucleophilic sulphur under basic conditions.