The effect of shopping malls opened in city centers on tradesmen: The example of Rize

Throughout history, the concept of the city has hosted various definitions, encompassing unique cultural values within each community and reflecting differences through inter-city development and transformation. Trade, as the most significant factor enabling cultural interaction between cities, has played a fundamental role in sustaining their existence and fostering social interaction, allowing people from different societies to come together and experience diverse products. Tradespeople, as one of the cornerstones of trade, play a crucial role in the economic development of society. Operating as small-scale enterprises, they contribute to local economies, create employment, and strengthen competition, thus balancing the dominance of large corporations. At the same time, they support the vitality of local markets by ensuring price and product diversity, while also reinforcing social bonds and enhancing the sense of solidarity within communities. Although craftsmanship and small trade have historically functioned as a means of meeting basic needs, in today's modern world changing consumption patterns, technological advances, and growing demands have pushed tradespeople into the background. Traditional shopkeepers once offered a shopping experience based on personal relationships, whereas in shopping centers this relationship has become more anonymous and functional. Customers are now able to meet their needs within a single structure, spend their leisure time, and participate in cultural activities. This transformation has weakened the competitive power of traditional tradespeople making it difficult for some businesses to survive. In this context, the city of Rize has been selected as a case study. Despite challenges such as harsh climatic conditions, rugged terrain, and labor outmigration, Rize managed to develop its own economy, experiencing economic vitality with the introduction of tea cultivation in the 1930s. Developments in agriculture also laid the foundation for industrial growth. With its historical trajectory, Rize has contributed to the economy through diverse sectors ranging from industry to agriculture and livestock. The expanding local market has enabled tradespeople to broaden their business capacity, increase their customer base, and operate across different sectors. Therefore, examining the impact of shopping centers established in city centers on tradespeople is crucial for sustainable economic development. Studying the effects of shopping centers on tradespeople in city centers is vital for sustainable economic progress. As one of the focus areas of economic geography, trade is also closely linked to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Particularly associated with the goals of "Decent Work and Economic Growth," "Sustainable Cities and Communities," and "Reduced Inequalities," trade serves as a fundamental tool for ensuring the livability and resilience of cities. Thus, understanding the role and future of tradespeople—who represent an integral part of urban life—in the urban economy is essential for sustainable urbanization. This study aims to analyze how shopping centers located in city centers affect tradespeople spatially, economically, and socio-culturally. The research seeks to reveal the reflections of changing consumption patterns and modern shopping centers on the urban economy.