Abstract:

The recognition of spatial differentiation of retail formats and its driving force is very important to optimize the allocation of urban resources. The traditional research is mainly based on sampling survey and questionnaire interview to observe the difference of spatial distribution. Based on that, the driving mechanism is further explored. With the emergence of new data, it is possible to explore the spatial differentiation of retail industry in more detail. Spatial distribution recognition of retail formats based on high precision and large sample data is more accurate and convenient than traditional research. Based on that, this study is based on the data of 47 026 retail outlets in Guangzhou in 2014. By using the methods of information entropy, nearest distance analysis, and kernel density analysis, we discussed the distribution pattern of retail industry in Guangzhou. The study process is as follows: First we analyzed the overall distribution pattern of retail industry in Guangzhou. Then we discussed the spatial differentiation of different formats. Finally, we analyzed the impact mechanism of retail industry in Guangzhou. The results are shown as follows: 1) The retail function of Guangzhou concentrates on the urban core area. The urban core area has a higher density distribution of retail outlets, and the development of retail function is more mature. The retail function is more proportionate in Yuexiu, Liwan, Tianhe (North) districts and the proportionality is significantly decreased from the core to the periphery. 2)The spatial distribution of different formats of retail industry has different characteristics. The concentration of retail outlets based on commercial services and basic living services is significantly higher than the comprehensive retail format. Convenience stores, professional stores, and food stores have a high degree of agglomeration, while the distribution of supermarkets and shopping malls is relatively balanced. 3)The distribution of different types of retail outlets is significantly different in each circles. The integrated types are relatively proportionate while those commercial types are more concentrate in the core layer and the inner layer. The integrated retail format has a consumption threshold so that their distribution is more balanced. The retail formats of business services more rely on the distribution of people, so they are concentrated in the urban core areas. 4)The driving force of urban retail spatial pattern is complex. The consumers flow, agglomeration factors, accessibility, the distribution of population, local policy factors and social spatial differentiation work together to affect the formation and evolution of retail format space.

Key words: retail industry, retail formats, spatial differentiation, POI, mechanism, Guangzhou