Exploring the Spatial Pattern of Retail Businesses in Chengdu Based on the Coupling of Nighttime Light Image and POI Data

Ling Jiang (), Binyu Wang, Chuanhui Wen, Tao Zhang and Ji Zhou
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Ling Jiang: School of Resources and Environment, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China
Binyu Wang: School of Resources and Environment, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China
Chuanhui Wen: School of Resources and Environment, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China
Tao Zhang: School of Resources and Environment, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China
Ji Zhou: School of Resources and Environment, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 2, 1-24

Abstract: The rational spatial layout of retail businesses is the foundation for promoting urban economic sustainable development and meeting the growing material living needs of residents. Meanwhile, the spatial correlation between commercial establishments and the population is one of the key factors in achieving a rational spatial layout. This study explores the spatial distribution of retail businesses and its coupling relationship with group activity levels in the central urban area of Chengdu, using a coupling model based on NPP–VIIRS nighttime light images and points of interest (POI) data from various retail outlets in 2023. Results indicate that the spatial distribution of retail commerce in Chengdu exhibits the characteristics of multi-center agglomeration, which is generally consistent with the population distribution. However, the distribution patterns vary among retail areas with different degrees of coupling. In terms of coupling coordination degree distribution, all retail categories show a similar trend to that of Chengdu. The analysis reveals that the retail category significantly influences the coupling degree distribution, while geographical location greatly affects the coupling coordination degree. This research will offer a reference for optimizing a city’s commercial spatial structure and scientifically planning enterprise outlet layouts.

Keywords: nighttime light image; POI; spatial coupling; spatial pattern; urban economy (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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