An Analysis of Consumer Space Preferences using the Method of Paired Comparisons

Abstract

<p> The study seeks to derive a spatial preference model for urban places, based on a farm population's spatial choices of urban places for retail expenditure. Specifically, the study tests for the similarity in households' preference orderings of urban places, and finds a high degree of similarity. This is achieved using a model with only two simple variables, namely town population and distance to town. Tests indicate no major variable is omitted in the model. The information on households' preference orderings enables the aggregate preference order to be defined. </p> <p> Tests are inconclusive as to whether households also assign worths to urban places which indicate their awareness of the amount by which different places are preferred. </p> <p> The second part of the analysis seeks to determine if different types of households have different spatial preferences. Differences are revealed in the value different types attach to the locational convenience of places. Farm households with members working off the farm reveal a lower than average preference for convenient shopping places. Smaller, more affluent households display a stronger preference for convenient locations and a lower preference for large towns than less affluent households with young children. </p>