Consequences of the changes and transformation of the commercial offer in our cities. Proximity commerce is more than just the supply of goods and products

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to vindicate the role of local commerce as a space-shaping element by contributing, with its presence and activity, to the development of urban functions. Firstly, through the bibliographic rewiew, a historial approach to the emergence of cities is made, emphasizing the multifunctionality of this space and underlining the symbiosis of commerce and city. Secondly, an analysis is made of the evolution of the commercial offer is made, spotlighting the impact of large supermarkets or peripheral commercial areas. Finally, focusing on the boost given by the pandemic in the growth of e-commerce, the current scenario is outlined. In this way, a final reflection in the form of conclusion is drawn. It is intended to serve as a framework for the administration, socioeconomic agents, and consumers to make decisions with an overview of the possible impacts, effects, and consequences of these, and to reasses the validity of the analysis of commercial activity as an indicator of changes and processes.