Applying Mantel’s spatial method to the case of restaurants

Abstract

Most conventional spatial analysis approaches that are used to study the effects of interpersonal spacing are positioned on urban geographical scales and are, therefore, applicable to open spaces. This article presents the challenges and limitations of the Mantel method, which is particularly appropriate for co-presence situations in enclosed spaces, and also shows how it is implemented. Traditionally used in biostatistics and ecology, the method is deployed here for the first time in the field of consumer behaviour. When applied to the case of restaurants, it helps to identify the effects of (here, socio-spatial) distance on the greater or lesser similarity of choices between customer groups and their spending. Because it allows a high degree of use across disciplines, particularly in management sciences, the Mantel method may interest practitioners seeking to (re-)arrange shared spaces, such as workspaces, shows, aeroplane areas, spas or condominium meetings.