Modular Buildings as a Potential for Small Trade Development in a Sustainable City

Monika Siewczyńska, Borys Siewczyński, Agnieszka Grzelczak, Anna Szymczak-Graczyk () and Barbara Ksit
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Monika Siewczyńska: Institute of Building Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Transport Engineering, Poznan University of Technology, Piotrowo 5, 60-965 Poznan, Poland
Borys Siewczyński: Institute of Architecture and Heritage Protection, Faculty of Architecture, Poznan University of Technology, Rychlewskiego 2, 61-139 Poznan, Poland
Agnieszka Grzelczak: Institute of Logistics, Faculty of Engineering Management, Poznan University of Technology, Rychlewskiego 2, 61-139 Poznan, Poland
Anna Szymczak-Graczyk: Department of Construction and Geoengineering, Faculty of Environmental and Mechanical Engineering, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Piatkowska 94E, 60-649 Poznan, Poland
Barbara Ksit: Institute of Building Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Transport Engineering, Poznan University of Technology, Piotrowo 5, 60-965 Poznan, Poland

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 13, 1-28

Abstract: The development of retail stores is determined by many factors, including the availability of retail space. The construction of a new building requires time, resources, and permits. This article aims to examine the possibilities of implementing small modular retail facilities built on the principles of vending machines, which do not require constant service and social space, by examining important groups of factors: architectural and structural, production, environmental, and costs. A vending machine in modular construction technology provides new opportunities for the development of a retail network in previously inaccessible places. The research presented in this article was conducted based on a literature review and interviews with experts, on the basis of which, using the network thinking methodology, critical factors were isolated and analysed in detail. The research results show the benefits of using modular technology, meeting the assumptions of the circular economy in terms of reducing the carbon footprint and improving the construction stage and investment costs, while taking into account the aesthetics of the surroundings. The results can contribute to the popularisation of the use of modular facilities, which can complement the development of downtown areas, making cities more sustainable.

Keywords: modular building; modular architecture; BIM; self-service stores; LCA; aesthetics (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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