Alternative Approaches to Market-area Structure in the Urban System

Abstract

It is argued that the market-area structure within the typical model of an urban system does not conform satisfactorily to the pattern customarily observed. The market-area structure of the standard model of a central place system is modified, by applying, in turn, two additional frameworks: the economic law of market areas and the law of retail gravitation. It is demonstrated that each application results in a more realistic pattern of market areas, while preserving the hierarchical structure of the central place system. The strengths and weaknesses of each approach are examined, and further aspects of both approaches are then considered.