Abstract:

The market background is first examined to give an indication of the competitive advantage that could follow the development of consumer durable shop siting studies. Next, the methodological factors which distinguish these studies from research into branded products and siting studies for repeat-purchase items are discussed. The concept of the trading area is then touched on briefly, leading to a discussion of the preliminary research necessary before fieldwork, and the interrelationship between secondary statistical sources and survey objectives. There follows a consideration of survey methods, sampling problem and the concept of accessibility with particular reference to practical problems, leading to a case history report on how research indicated which one of two sites in a town was preferable. Finally, brief consideration is given to the use of research to investigate currently unprofitable branches.