HOW DOES URBAN MORPHOLOGY SHAPES PROFITABLE ACTIVITIES?

A comparative essay of two areas in Barcelona and São Paulo

Abstract

The retail and services sectors play a crucial role in urban dynamics and can contribute to urban vitality and community cohesion. Small independent businesses are key elements in the development of a sustainable retail ecosystem and local economy boosting. This study investigates the relationship between plot sizes and the presence of local businesses versus high-capitalized companies in two street sections of Barcelona and São Paulo. It was found that Barcelona’s section has larger plots and a stronger presence of big franchises, suggesting a potential threat to local retailers. On the other hand, São Paulo’s section has smaller plots, with a higher prevalence of local businesses. Findings suggest a correlation between plot size and level of localness in profitable activities. Smaller plots seem to favor local and independent businesses, while bigger plots are related to the dominance of big companies over capital and land.