Internationalisation of large‐format retailers and leisure providers in western Europe: planning and property impacts

Abstract

Examines the effects which the institutional environment – particularly property and land‐use planning matters – may have on the process of retail internationalisation. Three North American retail and leisure providers currently expanding into western Europe are discussed – Wal‐Mart (large stores), McArthur Glen (factory outlet centres) and Warner Brothers (cinema complexes). In each case the rate of progress, and type and location of development, have been affected by limitations in the flexibility of property markets or by land‐use planning restrictions. In the case of Wal‐Mart, choice of entry mode has arguably been affected by planning restrictions. A possible link between market saturation and property/planning constraints is also identified.