This Small Grant for Exploratory Research award funds data acquisition for a study of supermarket competition. The PI will use this data to conduct work on how multi-store chains compete in geographic markets. The model will include the possibility that chains make strategic choices about store locations.

In the US, many retail industries have become dominated by strong regional or even national chains. This project will focus on better understanding the nature of competition in this kind of industry. Analyzing both the spatial and dynamic aspects of competitions will significantly enhance our understanding of how firms compete.

The result will be a model that can be applied to a wide variety of retail industries. Investment in variety enhancing distributions systems plays a central role in the markets for consumer electronics, home furnishings, building supplies, video rentals, and many other consumer durables. Understanding how these investments impact competition will help guide effective merger policy in these industries.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Social and Economic Sciences (SES)
Type
Standard Grant (Standard)
Application #
0517889
Program Officer
Daniel H. Newlon
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
2005-09-15
Budget End
2006-08-31
Support Year
Fiscal Year
2005
Total Cost
$6,160
Indirect Cost
Name
Duke University
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Durham
State
NC
Country
United States
Zip Code
27705