The use of geographical information in retail locational decision-making

Byrom, John (2000) The use of geographical information in retail locational decision-making. In: Manchester Metropolitan University Business School Working Papers. Working Paper. Manchester Metropolitan University. ISSN 1471-857X

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Abstract

This paper discusses an on-going programme of research that investigates the use of Geographical Information (GI) in retail locational decision-making. The continued pressures facing UK multiple retail organisations are such that decisions regarding the location of outlets are of significant importance. These locations represent sites where significant amounts of retail capital are 'sunk'. Once taken, decisions regarding the location of outlets cannot be easily altered. In order to assess the current role and use of GI in locational decision-making a three-stage approach has been adopted and is reported here. First, exploratory research was undertaken to assess decision-makers' use and awareness of the geographic nature of one particular type of GI. Secondly, a detailed postal survey was distributed to those responsible for locational decisions. This recorded a 36 per cent response rate and is the main focus of this paper. Thirdly, detailed case study research is proposed in three multiple retail organisations. It is envisaged that the results thus generated will provide a richer understanding of the nuances of retail locational decision-making.