CRI

 [ABSTRACT]

Rapid demographic shifts driven by low fertility rates and population aging have transformed food consumption patterns and contributed to a decline in traditional offline grocery stores. Yet grocery stores play an essential role in supporting residents’ daily nutrition, particularly for the elderly and digitally illiterate populations. Expanding grocery stores are also critical for revitalizing local small business economies.

Using public data, this study analyzes the relationship between demographic structures and the spatial distribution of grocery stores in Chungcheongbuk-do, and proposes strategies to strengthen local grocery retailing in response to demographic change.

The analysis reveals several key patterns. Regions with higher shares of young residents tend to have more specialty food stores, supermarkets, and convenience stores, reflecting stronger family-oriented consumption. Areas with larger working-age populations have fewer specialty stores and supermarkets but more convenience stores, whereas regions with higher elderly shares show the opposite trend. A higher proportion of small households and a higher net migration rate positively influence all store types, suggesting greater demand for nearby, small-scale shopping. Income effects were insignificant, while a higher apartment residence ratio was associated with fewer traditional grocery outlets, likely due to substitution toward large-scale or online retail.

These findings highlight the need for region-specific retail policies that reflect local demographic structures. Urban areas such as Cheongju, Chungju, and Jincheon should enhance digital-based retail strategies through public delivery platforms and mobile ordering. In contrast, rural and aging areas require support for accessible grocery options, including demand-responsive transportation, healthy food supply, and small-portion packaging.

Finally, data-driven policymaking and broader adoption of smart distribution technologies are essential. Strengthening traditional markets and small retailers through digital training and improved accessibility, and promoting mobile grocery markets and community group-order services can enhance food accessibility and sustainability in depopulating regions.