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Retailing – WJEC Where does retailing occur?

Retailing is the activity of selling goods or services to buyers for personal, family or household use. It has undergone a transformation in the past 60 years and this has had a profound effect on the cities and towns in which we live. It is a driving force for change in towns and cities within the UK and the world.

Part of GeographyRural-urban links

Where does retailing occur?

In traditional towns and cities within the UK, retailing takes place in many areas.

In Cardiff, large out-of-town retail parks can be found at sites such as Culverhouse Cross on the edge of the city. Large, modern, covered shopping centres, such as St David's 2, are located in the centre of a city, also known as the Central Business District (CBD).

There are also many small high street shopping areas like those in the suburbs of Whitchurch or the inner city area of Splott. In addition, throughout Cardiff, there are many small retail businesses such as corner shops or individual supermarkets.

Retailing also occurs away from the urban area. In small villages and hamlets, small post offices or general stores are often found – these provide vital connections with urban areas and provide locals with essential convenience goods.

A land use model showing the location of various types of retail within the city of Cardiff.
Figure caption,
A sketch of a land use model