Spatial development of retailers in Lviv region (case of «Rukavychka» trading network)

Abstract

Lviv region stands out among other regions in matters of trade; it has the highest rates of trade networks development and the biggest rate number of institutions. Fraction of the trading network "Rukavuchka" in the structure retailers Lviv region is 43.7%. It is the biggest local network inUkraine. Studying of its spatial development allows to identify factors, features and stages of Lviv region retailer’s geospatial organization.

The main factors affecting the development of "Rukavuchka" trade network are as follows: level of income, level of urbanization, geographical position, population mentality that promotes patriotic consumption, and so on. "Rukavuchka" belongs to "Lvivholod" which arose as a result of privatization "State Reserve". During 12 years of activity it has developed into a network of 78 institutions in 45 towns. At first establishments appeared in the regional network centers (Peremyshlyany, Pustomyty, Radekhiv, Brody, Kamenka-Buzka, Sokal) and small towns (Krasne, Dobrotvir). First of all, it was caused by the financial possibilities TOV "Lvivholod". Afterward, the retailer "Rukavuchka " developed its activities in the regional centers and other big cities of the region. Favorable for its development have been 2007, 2009, 2012 and 2014. Stages of development of the network associated with the peculiarities of the national economy ofUkraine, changing periods of economic boom and crisis.

The rapid development of "Rukavuchka" network led to appearance of trade aglomeriation around the largest cities. Retail development was slowed in the mountainous part of Lviv region, border areas, and in some main cities of the region (Drohobych Sambir, Stryi, Chervonograd). In the mountain areas, it is caused by small population and relief. In big cities, a factor of rivalry from largest retailers has a decisive influence. In border areas retail development slow down trade connections within 30km zone withPoland. In the city ofLviv, there are significant differences in network development in administrative areas. The sharpest increase we can observe in so-called dormitory suburbs, the worst in the city center, where the cost of rental is higher, as well as in industrial areas.