Local Amenities – Spatial Modelling of Market Potential Based on Open Data

Abstract

Abstract This paper presents the concept and methodology for assessing the market potential of local convenience shops in spatial terms. The methods concerned are based on spatial analyses using information derived from open data concerning local population density and competing establishments. The study focused on four main stages, including the estimation of shop density, population density, the compilation of a market potential map, and data reclassification to identify the potential for the location of new shops. The area under study comprised three cities: Łódź, Poznań, and Wrocław. The results of the study suggest that a high market potential does not concern the most populated areas but less populated ones, which is mainly due to much less competition. It was also indicated that the study may serve an important role in terms of sustainable urban development and an improvement in the inhabitants’ quality of life.