Exploratory space data analysis of spatial patterns of large-scale retail commercial facilities: The case of Gulou District, Nanjing, China

Abstract

This study uses methods, such as a nearest proximity index, nuclear density, spatial interpolation, buffering zone, and overlay analysis, based on an exploratory spatial data analysis tool. It focuses on a large commercial facility in which a mathematical analysis is conducted on its spatial patterns. In the study, 45 large-scale retail commercial facilities (LSRCFs) in the Gulou District, Nanjing, China, were chosen, and the spatial concentration, density, and structure of the LSRCFs in this area were analyzed. Three additional factors, namely, population, transportation, and consumption, were examined to determine their impact on the spatial patterns of the LSRCFs. Finally, this study recommends a spatial layout for the future of the Gulou District according to the analysis results.

Keywords

• GIS
• Large-scale retail commercial facilities
• Nanjing
• Spatial patterns