[{
      "title": "Product Manager: MAPP (12 month maternity cover)",
      "date": "Tue Jun 02 2026 10:14:44 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/we-are-hiring-product-manager-mapp-maternity-cover/",
      "excerpt": "Join Geolytix as Product Manager (maternity cover) for MAPP. Lead B2B SaaS roadmap, feature design & web mapping strategy. Apply now!",
      "content": "GEOLYTIX is seeking an experienced Product Manager (maternity cover) to help us as we evolve and grow our web mapping and reporting capabilities through our SaaS application, MAPP. As Product Manager in the MAPP team, you will be the driving force behind ensuring that our web mapping software is in the best shape to help our clients answer their location questions, both now and in the future. You will sit at the intersection of the business, technology and business development teams, understanding the evolving needs of the users and translating them into actionable concepts for our software developers. You will be the go-to expert on MAPP across the business, showcasing evolving features and supporting account managers and the business development team as they engage with clients. \n\n\n\nResponsibilities\nProduct Strategy and Roadmap Ownership. Own and manage the MAPP product vision and roadmap. Define product goals and KPIs, prioritise initiatives and make trade offs between feature development, quality improvement and technical investment.\nCustomer and User Centric Product Development. Maintain a deep understanding of users and their workflows. Lead continuous product discovery, and convert problems into clear requirements ensuring changes are driven by evidence.\nCompetitive Intelligence: An understanding of the broader Geospatial/Location Intelligence market to ensure MAPP stays ahead of \"future\" location questions.\nBacklog Management and Requirements Definition. Own the product backlog, ensuring epics and stories are outcome driven and implementation ready. Document clear requirements and acceptance criteria that enable teams to deliver with minimal ambiguity. Ensure alignment of priorities across key stakeholder groups.\nClient Relationship and Adoption Support. Act as the ‘go to expert’ on MAPP, for client implementation and demo support. Provide structured feedback on client trends, recurring pain points and feature opportunities.\nDevelop team maturity: As part of a growing Product function, advance the definition and evolution of team ways of working. Refine best practice for discovery, opportunity prioritisation, and Product and engineering synchronisation.\nRelease Planning and Product Governance. Own go to market plans for new features, and ensure change is communicated, documented and measured. Maintain product coherence and guard against fragmentation across the offer.\nStakeholder Management and Communication. Act as the primary point of contact for MAPP product direction across the business. Communicate roadmap, priorities and decisions clearly to commercial, delivery and leadership teams.\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout You\nAn experienced Product Manager who is comfortable working in B2B environments.\nFamiliar with web mapping tools and GIS (geographical information systems) capabilities - ideally a competent GIS user in your own right.\nComfortable working in a data centric environment. Able to engage with the data scientists and analysts whose work will be brought to life in your platform.\nAn exceptional communicator, able to share complex ideas simply and communicate an idea in multiple different ways to ensure it lands with different audiences.\nAlways looking for process improvements, you don't just follow a workflow; you improve it. You are comfortable in ambiguity and enjoy creating the structures and templates that help a growing team scale.\nData driven, yet confident in making decisions amongst uncertain indicators.\n\n\n\n\n\nSkills & Experience\nAt least 3 years Product Management experience, ideally in a B2B SaaS environment.\nDemonstrable experience in working with enterprise customers to define, build, and scale successful B2B software products.\nGood understanding of B2B business models, pricing, and go-to-market strategies.\nStrong attention to detail, driven to ensure that our clients receive the best possible experience.\nProven ability to work with enterprise customers, from discovery and requirements gathering to feedback and iteration.\nExceptional communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to articulate product strategy and roadmap to both technical and non-technical audiences.\nA commercial mindset with a track record of delivering against business KPIs.\nA data-driven approach to decision-making, with experience using product analytics tools to inform product strategy.\n\n\n\n\n\nDesirable\nA history in working with retailers, ideally in their property or location planning functions.\nAn understanding of the key principles of Location Planning, and how these users operate.\nCuriosity and a proactive approach to new technologies, including AI, and how they can be applied to solve B2B challenges.\n\n\n\n\n\nOther stuffThis is for a 12 month contract to cover maternity leave. Our offices are in Leeds and Clerkenwell, London. The role can be located in either. Competitive salary. We’re a young and growing company who embrace flexible working; full time or part time, family friendly hours and/or working from home days considered.\n\n\n\nInterested?If you are interested in this role, please send your CV and cover letter to careers@geolytix.co.uk. No agencies please.\n\n\n\n\nPhoto by Nick Morrison on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "What’s the Catchment?",
      "date": "Tue May 26 2026 17:14:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/whats-the-catchment/",
      "excerpt": "Catchments are more than just shapes on a map. Discover 7 ways to map your customers, analyse competitors, and optimise your location planning.",
      "content": "Catchments are more than just shapes on a map, they visualise essential data for location planning. In this blog post we are going to explain what makes a catchment, the benefits of building and analysing catchment areas in location planning, some of the different ways in which you can tackle this common problem and how to choose the right one for the task in hand. What is a catchment?Catchments, sometimes known as Trade Zones are the geographic areas from which retailers, services and organisations draw their customers. Depending on the method used, they can vary significantly in size and shape, influenced by factors such as transport links, population density, and physical barriers.Determining a location’s catchment is pivotal for location planning. Know where your customers are coming from by mapping and visualising your main service areas.Knowing about your existing estate can be used to your advantage when planning new locations. Understand gaps and overlaps, and get a sense of the overall market by deep-diving into competitor locations. Streamline operations and optimize strategic planning, ensuring your offering is geographically and demographically tailored.By combining the catchment areas with other data your business can uncover powerful insights; what demographic characteristics surround your best and worst performing stores, which competitors are also within your catchment, are some of your existing stores already cannibalising each other?\n\n\n\nHere’s a handful of common approaches for determining catchment areas\n\n\n\nStraight lineAlso known as buffers, distance based catchments or ‘as the crow flies’, these are simply a distance radius around the site, and are the most basic approach to catchment area analysis. Buffer catchments can be really useful for quick, simple analysis and opening the door for deeper questions.Straight line 'buffer' example\n\n\n\nDrive TimeSometimes known as isochrones, the trade area or catchment is defined by the drive time to the point of interest (POI). We can use our novel data sources to look at these during peak, off peak or average traffic conditions. They help paint a clear picture of how accessible your location is to customers, and are especially useful if you are interested in a drive through mission type, or sell large and heavy items. This principle can also be applied to other forms of movement, such as travelling by foot or using public transit.Travel time using a drivetime example\n\n\n\nNearest CatchmentNearest catchments assign catchments based on proximity to the point of interest (POI) by assigning every ‘cell’ in a study area to its closest POI. At Geolytix, we use a H3 resolution 9 hex grid which allows for consistent mapping across an entire country and clearly show how catchment sizes change by urbanity. Because of the way hexagons tessellate, they behave more like circular buffers, whilst tiling perfectly across the map.Nearest catchment example\n\n\n\nGravity ModelThe core principle of a gravity model catchment bases the size of the catchment on the attractiveness of the point of interest using market share, assuming that larger, more appealing destinations have a stronger ‘pull’ on the customer. They also use distance decays to capture the relationship between the propensity to spend and distance, accounting for the decline in interaction as distance increases. The rate of decay is not constant across markets or mission types and we can build bespoke decay curves to account for this.Gravity model catchment example\n\n\n\nCustomer CatchmentOf course, if you collect customer data, you can see where they live and where they shop, meaning it is possible to define ‘primary’, ‘secondary’ and ‘tertiary’ catchments based on variables such as their number of visits or total spend at each location. This is often aggregated up to small local geographies to protect a customer’s privacy - this data is usually highly sensitive! Depending on the desired results there are various ways of defining primary and secondary catchments; for example, while the closest 50% of customers has the advantage of giving you a clean primary catchment, ordering by spend or transaction penetration might give you more accurate insights, but generate a catchment with holes in.\n\n\n\nMobilityUsing phone mobility data, it is possible to visualise where people are coming from and going to. Like drive time catchments, this can be done at a number of temporal granularities, enabling differentiation between daytime shoppers, night time economies, workers and residents. It highlights busyness hot spots, and the different patterns generated by pedestrians and vehicles.Mobility data derived catchment example\n\n\n\nBanking DataUsing data from our banking partner we can build out spend contribution catchments based on aggregated home locations at specific outlet levels. This is based on real spend at the retailer and identifies neighbourhood areas that are spending the most at your store (or your competitor's stores) and lets you quantify the value of that area to your asset. Our banking catchments are built at quarter annual frequency so you can even monitor how contributions adjust with your retail strategies.Banking data derived catchment example\n\n\n\nWhilst some methods are simple and others are more involved, or require a greater depth of available data, no one method is the right one. This is determined by your requirements, the missions you want to target and the speed at which you’d like the answers. There are pros and cons to all, and if this blog post hasn’t demystified them completely then we can help you choose the right one to support your next location planning decision!\n\n\n\nEllen Talbot, Data Scientist at Geolytix\n\n\n\n\nPhoto by Martin Sanchez on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Grocery Growth: UK Supermarket and Convenience Changes in 2026 Q1",
      "date": "Thu Apr 30 2026 12:36:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/grocery-retail-points-2026q1/",
      "excerpt": "Convenience-led growth and selective closures have defined the UK grocery sector in the first quarter of 2026, as retailers continue to reshape their store networks.",
      "content": "In this blog, we take a closer look at how the UK grocery landscape has evolved between the end of Q4 2025 and Q1 2026, focusing on overall change across the quarter. By updating our store-level dataset, we’re able to build a more detailed picture of how networks are evolving beneath the surface, not just where retailers have grown or shrunk, but how those changes have played out over time.AldiAldi continues steady expansion in the UK, reaching 1,080 stores by the end of Q1 2026, up from 1,066 in December 2025. The chain added 14 stores across England and Scotland, with no closures this quarter:\nEast Midlands: Southam By Pass\nLondon: London Road West, Uxbridge\nNorth West: -\nNorth East: Colliery Lane (Hetton-le-Hole), West Denton Way (Newcastle)\nSouth East: Hove\nSouth West: Merlin Road (Bristol), Yate\nWest Midlands: King George’s Way (Pershore)\nYorkshire & The Humber: Huddersfield Road (Mirfield), Gallamore Lane (Market Rasen)\nScotland: Dundee Road (Arbroath), 11 Boghall Road (Glasgow), 1 Mcgavigans Road (Kirkintilloch)\nWales: -\n\nLooking ahead, Aldi has unveiled plans to open 40 new stores across the UK in 2026 as part of a £370m investment, including locations such as Southam in Warwickshire, Hastings in East Sussex, and Amersham in Buckinghamshire. The expansion is part of the retailer’s longer-term strategy to reach 1,500 stores nationwide, addressing gaps in areas without an Aldi and continuing to make high-quality, affordable food more widely accessible.\n\n\n\nAsdaAsda continues its gradual expansion nationally, growing from 1,116 stores at the end of December 2025 to 1,123 by the end of Q1 2026, with seven new sites and no closures this quarter. All of the new stores are Asda Express locations, reflecting the retailer’s continued focus on convenience retail. Notable examples include Asda Bradford, Toller Lane Express and Asda Salford, Greengate Express, both of which opened in January and helped tip Asda over the milestone of 500 Asda Express stores nationwide.\n\n\n\nBoothsBooths remains a fixture of high-end grocery in Northern England, operating 25 stores across Lancashire, Cumbria, Yorkshire, and Cheshire. In Q1 2026, the store network remained stable, with no changes, continuing to serve its loyal customer base across the region. The most recent change was the closure of the Ripon branch in July 2025, ending a 16-year presence in the city to make way for a Tesco store, which opened a few months later in November 2025.\n\n\n\nBudgensBudgens has consolidated itself around the 400-store mark, with the estate now at 415 locations. The retailer has continued its month-on-month growth by adding 13 new stores, all in England, strengthening its convenience footprint.\n\n\n\nCentraCentra, the newest addition to the Grocery Retail Points dataset in 2025, is based entirely in Northern Ireland. The chain has maintained a stable network of 101 stores throughout the quarter, with no changes, continuing to serve its established customer base across the region.\n\n\n\nCostcoCostco’s UK network remains unchanged at 29 stores in Q1 2026, with no changes during the quarter. Excitingly, the wholesale giant is on track to open a new warehouse in Gloucester later this year, marking its first UK store opening since 2019. The 13,000 sqm facility, currently under construction, will feature a petrol station, ample parking, and sustainable design elements, representing a significant expansion of Costco’s UK network.\n\n\n\nCOOKCOOK continues to operate 115 stores across Great Britain, with no changes during the quarter. More stores are set to open in Q2 2026, including a new location in West Putney, expanding the brand’s presence and continuing to offer its signature hand-prepared frozen meals.\n\n\n\nThe Co-operative GroupThe Co-operative Group has ended the quarter with 2,411 stores, representing a net increase of three despite some month-to-month fluctuations. New additions included locations such as Co-op Gairloch, Didcot, Ashburton, and Frampton Cotterell, while closures included Axminster and Cowdenbeath.Looking ahead, Co-op is giving a flavour of what’s to come with plans to open 75 new stores in 2026, including a mix of company-owned and franchise sites. The expansion focuses on convenience, reaching both urban and rural communities, and is supported by refurbishments, sustainability initiatives, and community-focused services. Let’s see if they achieve their target and how this plays out across the UK convenience landscape.The Co‑op Societies network has seen a noticeable reduction this quarter, as smaller societies face ongoing operational pressures from rising costs and expanding competition from convenience formats.\n\n\n\nDunnes StoresDunnes Stores continues to operate 15 locations, with no changes in Q1 2026. The retailer, also exclusively based in Northern Ireland, has an exciting new store set to open at Foyleside, Derry, in summer 2026. This redevelopment will create Dunnes’ largest footprint in the region, transforming the former food court into an expanded fashion, lifestyle, and homewares destination, complete with a panoramic in-store café. We know this doesn't offer food but it made its way in years ago after a user requested it.\n\n\n\nFarmfoodsFarmfoods had a quiet quarter in terms of development and growth, with no new stores opening and three closures during this period: Selby and Erdington in Northern England, and Largs in Scotland.\n\n\n\nHeron FoodsHeron Foods currently operates 313 stores across England and Wales. This quarter saw limited activity, with 2 new and 4 closed locations. The March openings include a new store in Coventry and a relocated store in Barrow, Cumbria; both will be captured in the next scheduled update release.\n\n\n\nIcelandIceland’s store network has seen a net decline of 6 this quarter, bringing its total count to 962 stores. This comprises of 760 Iceland stores and 202 stores under the Food Warehouse fascia. One example of recent closures includes the Leigh town centre store, which shut following a lease expiry.Looking at location types against Geolytix Retail Places, Iceland’s estate remains primarily focused on town centres, with urban centres making up a smaller share at around 20% of the portfolio. Notably, the recent removals of Knowle and Prestwich fall within this category.\n\n\n\nLidlLidl has continued its strong growth trajectory in Q1 2026, recording 21 new store openings and reaching a total of 1,056 stores. This reflects consistent month-on-month increases across the quarter, building on the milestone of surpassing 1,000 stores in the UK. Closures were limited to four locations and do not indicate contraction within the portfolio as Huddersfield (Central), Horley, Dereham (Toftwood), and Basildon (Laindon) have all closed as part of relocation strategies, typically moving into larger, higher-capacity sites.At the start of January, Lidl set out ambitious expansion plans, announcing 19 new stores to open within just 8 weeks. This sits alongside a £40m+ investment programme to modernise more than 70 existing stores, introducing larger formats, upgraded facilities, and energy-efficient features.\n\n\n\nMakroMakro, the UK Cash & Carry retailer, continues to operate 23 stores across the country in Q1 2026, with no changes during the quarter. Its network is geographically diverse, covering a wide range of locations, and continues to serve businesses with its wholesale model.\n\n\n\nMarks & SpencerMarks & Spencer has seen a slight contraction this quarter, declining from 1,057 stores at the end of December 2025 to 1,048 by the end of March. The majority of these closures sit within the Simply Food and Travel formats, which together account for 24% of the overall estate. Recent examples include Luton Airport and Reading Rail, both of which sit within the transient focussed Geolytix Retail Places categories, such as airports (1.42% of the portfolio) and rail stations (4.53%). This pattern aligns with wider changes across the business, including the ongoing programme of café closures and store reconfiguration.\n\n\n\nMorrisonsMorrisons continues to see strong growth, with 1,840 in the latest count. This steady upward trajectory has been driven by 22 new sites, offset slightly by 7 closures, resulting in consistent month-on-month growth throughout the quarter.All of this activity sits firmly within the convenience space, with additions and exits attributed to the Morrisons Daily fascia. In contrast, the larger-format Morrisons network remained unchanged at 497 stores, reinforcing the retailer’s clear focus on expanding its convenience footprint instead.This direction is further supported by ongoing plans to accelerate franchise-led expansion, with Morrisons targeting the conversion of 250 independent corner shops into Morrisons Daily stores. With ambitions to deliver hundreds of additional convenience locations, the retailer’s strategy remains firmly centred on capturing more local, on-the-go shopping demand.\n\n\n\nPlanet OrganicPlanet Organic continues to operate 8 stores, with the most recent change being a high street relocation in Westbourne Grove, London, at the back end of 2024. The move, just a short walk from its original location, created a larger space, allowing the brand to expand its offering of fresh organic produce and wellness products while continuing to serve its London customer base.\n\n\n\nSainsbury’sSainsbury’s has continued to expand its convenience-focused market, with 14 new openings this quarter and only one closed. 12 of the new stores were Sainsbury’s Locals, following the common trend of convenience, while the single closure in Tottenham Court Road involved a relocation to a smaller nearby unit.Over the past 12 months, Sainsbury’s Local has grown consistently, adding an average of around four new stores per month, compared with the larger supermarket format, which has increased by less than one per month. The contrast shows the retailer’s ongoing focus on smaller-format, high-frequency locations.\n\n\n\nSparSpar has seen a net decline of 17 stores in Q1 2026, bringing its total estate to 2,209, the lowest level since the end of Q1 2025. As a symbol group, where independent retailers operate under the brand, its network is inherently more fluid than other grocers. This typically results in higher levels of both additions and site exits, with exits outweighing new additions this quarter.\n\n\n\nTescoTesco has delivered strong growth in Q1 2026, with 28 new stores and no closures, taking its total stores to 2,962 and putting it on track to surpass the 3,000 mark as early as Q2 if it continues to expand at a similar rate. This has been heavily driven by Tesco Express, accounting for 26 of the 28 openings, in line with wider plans to deliver over 70 new Express stores by March 2027.Over the past 12 months, Tesco Express has expanded at an average rate of just over 7 stores per month, highlighting a consistent and highly controlled convenience-led rollout focused on network optimisation rather than rapid expansion. Geographically, new Tesco locations this quarter have been widely distributed, with a particularly strong presence in London and other major urban areas:\nEast Midlands: Edlesborough\nLondon: Croydon (Morello), Brixton Station, Moorgate, East Dulwich (Lordship Lane), East Finchley Station, Kensington High Street, Rotherhithe Street, Wembley Stadium, Hounslow (London Road)\nNorth West: Lancaster (Bowerham), Ellesmere Port (Ledsham Village), Salford (Ordsall)\nNorth East: Newcastle (Pilgrim Street), South Shields (Marsden)\nSouth East: High Wycombe, Stevenage (Forster Park), Chatham (Victoria Cross Court)\nSouth West: Barnstaple (Bickington), Bristol (Speedwell), Brockworth\nWest Midlands: Coventry (Earlsdon)\nYorkshire & The Humber: Leeds (Kirkgate), Harrogate\nScotland: Edinburgh (Bughtlin Market)\nWales: -\n\n\n\n\n\nWaitroseWaitrose continues to operate an estate of 430 stores, up slightly from 429, with no permanent openings or closures during the quarter. The slight increase reflects the temporary closure of Little Waitrose at Shell Lizzie Brice, which has since reopened in January. The retailer maintains a strong presence nationwide, continuing its focus on convenience formats and partnerships with forecourts such as Welcome Break and Shell.\n\n\n\nWhole Foods MarketWhole Foods Market, which has been owned by Amazon since 2017, continues to operate 6 stores in the UK, with no changes during Q1 2026. Following the full exit of Amazon Fresh from the market, the retailer has unveiled plans to open six new stores across London between April and June 2026, significantly expanding its presence and bringing a wider range of organic and fresh produce, prepared foods, and speciality items to new communities. The new locations will be:\nAngel, The Mall, 359 Upper Street, The Angel, London N1 0PD: 2 April 2026\nLiverpool Street, Unit 4b-5, Blomfield Street, London EC2M 7BD: 23 April 2026\nNotting Hill Gate, 66-74 Notting Hill Gate, London W11 3HT: 14 May 2026\nWood Wharf, 4 Water Street, Wood Wharf, London, E14 5GX: 28 May 2026\nMonument, Unit 1, 20 Gracechurch Street, London EC3V 0BG: 4 June 2026\nSt. James, 57 Victoria Street, London SW1P 2HX: 11 June 2026\n\n\n\n\n\nGrocery Retailer Opening and Closures in 2026 Q1Source: GEOLYTIX Grocery Retail Points (March 2026)\n\n\n\nGrocery Retailer Openings by Retail Place TypeWhen looking at new openings by Geolytix Retail Places, there is a lack of concentration in any single location type, with only Parades exceeding 10% at 13% (20 of total additions) in Q1 2026. Beyond this, they are spread across a wide mix of location types, with Urban Centres and Town Centres accounting for just over 15% combined. This distribution highlights a relatively diverse set of trading environments rather than reliance on one dominant format, although activity remains anchored in neighbourhood and high-footfall convenience locations.\n\n\n\nGrocery Retailer Openings by RegionLondon and the South East dominated new store activity in Q1 2026, together accounting for almost 30% of all additions. London led all regions with 26 new sites, followed by the South East with 19, reinforcing the continued focus on high-density urban and commuter locations. Strong levels of activity were also seen in Scotland and the South West, each contributing just over a tenth of total new locations.\n\n\n\nSummary of 2026 Q1Q1 2026 has been defined by consistent, convenience-led growth across the UK grocery sector, with the Grocery Retail Points dataset reaching 19,254 locations. A total of 152 stores opened during the quarter, compared to 102 closures. Growth has been largely driven by smaller-format stores such as Tesco Express, Sainsbury’s Local, and Morrisons Daily, reinforcing the continued shift towards high-frequency, convenience led shopping missions.Discount retailers remain a major driver of this momentum, while relocation strategies and store modernisation programmes mean many closures reflect optimisation rather than true contraction. \n\n\n\nWhere can I access the data?GEOLYTIX tracks 22 grocery retailers and the above analyses those brands. We have been tracking and releasing our Grocery Retail Points dataset as open data for 12 years! You can view and download the data here, just toggle on the Grocery layer. We would love to hear how you use this completely free and open to use data, please tag us on LinkedIn @Geolytix or email us at info@geolytix.com.\n\n\n\nNumbers reported are based on Geolytix data, research and openly available information. \n\n\n\nPatrick Zirora, Data Analyst at GEOLYTIX\n\n\n\n\nPhoto by Scott Warman on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "The Big Spend: Highlights from the Data Science Hackathon",
      "date": "Thu Apr 16 2026 13:31:32 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/highlights-data-science-hackathon-2026/",
      "excerpt": "Each year we host a Data Science Hackathon. Danny shares the theme for this years.",
      "content": "Last month marked a bit of a landmark at Geolytix, with our 5th annual Data Science Hackathon. The general idea behind these is to take a day out from our usual project work, give the team the opportunity to try different techniques and really explore tools and data without the pressures of a deliverable output.In previously years this has included more traditional data science challenges like regression, segmentation or classification problems. This year though, the theme was a little different.\n\n\n\nThe Theme: Card Spend DataWith ever increasing interest in our unit level card spend data, there was a lot of internal excitement on how we might continue to explore the possibilities beyond the obvious applications. For those unaware, our anonymised card spend data offers a detailed view of the UK retail landscape, for over 200,000 individual retail units. The breadth, granularity and temporal nature of this data opens up a world of possibilities for location planning purposes.The well-trodden use cases of understanding customer spend by brand and location (including for competitors), are of course very useful for solving network planning problems, but what else can we do?With the theme set, we broke up into teams of two, to see what we could come up with in a day. Each team was then also required to present back their experiments and ideas with some key members of the wider Geolytix team. I’m always amazed by the quality and quantity of good ideas that are generated during our hackathons, despite the obvious time limitations.\n\n\n\nThe Experiments:Some of the experiments covered this year included:\nUsing temporal data to capture store/competitor opening dates to assess impacts.\nAssessing closure rates by shopper town, and analysing which features may help explain variations in regional closure rates.\nExploring catchments derived from banking data, and analysing how these vary by brand, industry and Retail Place type.\nExamining temporal trends at unit level, to benchmark and compare individual store trends against those in close proximity.\nBuilding demand surfaces using banking data (or refining existing approaches).\nExploring how and why seasonality patterns might differ at a granular level, even within the same town.\nProfiling customers for a handful of example brands, using only banking data.\n\n\n\n\n\nLooking Ahead:All of this generated much food for thought for the wider business, but also for the Data Scientists involved in ongoing projects. Watch this space for some enhanced products coming soon!I do think it’s important to be able to step back occasionally or try to tackle a problem in a new way. In addition to our yearly hackathon, we also have an annual Data Science day, where we plan similar activities, but in the field, so expect another post later this year!\n\n\n\nKeeping the brains well fed 🍕\n\n\n\nIf you’re reading this and think this sounds up your street, we publish any available roles on our website.If you’re reading this and want to know how card spend data could help your business, get in contact today!\n\n\n\nDanny Hart, Head of Data Science\n\n\n\nTitle Image: Photo by Mika Baumeister on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Beyond footfall: where retailers really outperform in London",
      "date": "Mon Feb 16 2026 14:53:36 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/banking-data-where-retailers-outperform-in-london/",
      "excerpt": "Card spend data reveals where London retailers actually outperform their own estates. From high-conversion rail hubs to high-productivity retail parks, discover the locations driving real growth.",
      "content": "Retailers have long relied on familiar signals to judge location performance: footfall, demographics, tenant mix, catchment spend.Useful, but blunt.Our card spend data offers a more sophisticated measure of performance: it shows where retailers actually outperform their own estates, not just where they should perform well.When we apply this lens to London, a clear pattern emerges.The city's 10 strongest outperforming locations fall into three distinct Retail Place types, each offering very different strategic insights for retailers.\n\n\n\n1) Rail Stations: intensity and impulseLondon’s major rail hubs consistently rank among the top outperformers:\nKing's Cross\nSt Pancras\nEuston\nWaterloo\nPaddington\n\nThese locations combine extreme footfall intensity with a highly spend-ready customer mix. For many brands, they deliver trading levels significantly above estate averages, particularly in categories suited to convenience, gifting, food and premium impulse.The Insight:Rail stations aren’t just high-footfall locations, they are high-conversion environments. Unit-level data helps brands quantify that uplift and benchmark the true premium of station-based retail.Fascia decile of in-store card spend for top 450 retailers.\n\n\n\n2) Retail Parks: unglamorous, but highly productiveSome of London’s strongest outperformers are not in prime high streets or flagship malls, but in retail parks:Purley Way North Retail ParkRuislip Retail ParkTower Retail ParkThese locations often fly under the radar in traditional location analysis.Yet unit-level performance data shows that categories like DIY, home, furniture and bulky goods consistently trade exceptionally well here.The Insight:Retail parks can deliver some of the most reliable and scalable performance in an estate, especially for space-hungry or destination-led categories. Data-driven benchmarking helps brands recognise value where traditional metrics might undervalue it.Fascia decile of in-store card spend for top 450 retailers.\n\n\n\n3) Shopping Centres: concentrated demandMajor shopping centres also stand out:\nWestfield Stratford\nBrent Cross\n\nThese environments combine scale, brand adjacency and customer dwell time, creating pockets of sustained outperformance for fashion, beauty and lifestyle brands.The Insight:Not all centres are equal. Unit-level data reveals which centres genuinely drive above-estate performance, rather than simply looking strong on paper.Fascia decile of in-store card spend for top 450 retailers.\n\n\n\nWhy this mattersLondon isn’t a single retail market, and performance isn’t driven by one factor.By moving beyond proxies and analysing real trading outcomes, retailers can:\nIdentify micro-locations where they are most likely to outperform\nCompare fundamentally different Retail Place types on a like-for-like basis\nChallenge assumptions about where their best opportunities really lie\nMake expansion and optimisation decisions with defensible evidence\n\n\n\n\n\nIn short, sophisticated performance measurement reveals opportunities that traditional location analysis simply can’t see.\n\n\n\nInterested in more detail? Click this link to book a demo of our UK banking data platform and start de-risking your site selection today.\n\n\n\nAuthor: Ben Purple, Director at GEOLYTIX\n\n\n\n\nPhoto by Benjamin Davies on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Employee Benefits at Geolytix",
      "date": "Mon Jan 05 2026 10:30:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/employee-benefits-at-geolytix/",
      "excerpt": "If working with an awesome team on interesting projects isn't quite enough, Geolytix employees benefit from lots of other perks too. ",
      "content": "Our employees don’t just benefit from working with an awesome team, their salary and pension. We’ve talked and worked out the benefits that mean the most to us.Flexible WorkingWe don’t pay this lip service. Two Thirds of our leadership team work part time. We trust our team to work around their other commitments, whether that be school drop offs, volunteering or wellbeing. It’s something we’re passionate about. We love to see people in the office, but also give people the benefit of working from home.VitalityThis is a recent benefit we’ve signed up to for our UK colleagues – it’s brilliant! Dental, GP, Opticians, Physio, Specialists, Mental Health Sessions, Free Amazon Prime, Cinema tickets, Coffees, Gym discounts. The list goes on and on – the best thing about Vitality is that its encouraging us all to get up and move more.Attractive Maternity PolicyWe love it when our wider Geolytix family grows and want to support our colleagues during and on the return. We offer up to 26 weeks full pay.Attractive Paternity PolicyWe’ve had quite a few new fathers recently! They’ve enjoyed our enhanced paternity policy of 2 weeks full pay plus either a further 7 weeks at 50% pay or further 3.5 weeks full pay.Flexible Bank Holidays and unpaid leaveSometimes it fits in with our lives to work a bank holiday - a perfect opportunity to get our head down when it’s busy. Geolytix employees can do this and take the holiday at another time. The team can top up their time off with unpaid leave and sabbaticals.Birthday HolidayEnjoy a bonus day off on, or a week either side of your birthday - another reason to celebrate!Cycle to work Scheme / Tuskerdirect Car SchemeWe’re thrilled that so may of our employees have taken advantage of the Cycle to Work Scheme, where Geolytix loan the money to buy a bike and the employee pays back monthly pre-tax! We’ve also partnered with Tuskerdirect who incentivise the purchase of electric and hybrid cars.Opportunity to Travel AbroadWe have employees in China, Japan, Australia, South Africa, France, Italy and Poland – they love to have visitors. We also work on many projects where there is an opportunity to visit countries to understand the retail landscape.Bonus based on PerformanceWe’ve paid out fantastic double digit bonus’s for the last 10 years, based on how well Geolytix performs. We tend to pro rata these for employees who haven’t been with us a year so they don’t miss out.Become a Geolytix ShareholderAfter employees have been with us a year, they can enter our long term incentive plan. At the end of 3 years if we hit the targets then they will be awarded Geolytix shares and own part of the company – we offer this every year to everyone so shares will build up for our old timers. As a smaller company this is something we’re proud we’re able to offer. \n\n\n\n“Vitality is great! Not only does it cover the important stuff like opticians and dental costs as standard (I got my latest pair of glasses covered through the membership), but there are great extras that can be earned. My Hot Chocolate intake has definitely increased, due to the weekly free drink from Caffe Nero, achieved through the exercise I now do with my discounted gym membership” - Dan Dungate, Head of Data Science\n\n\n\n"
    },{
      "title": "Your Complete Guide to UK Banking Location Data",
      "date": "Tue Nov 18 2025 16:35:34 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/banking-building-societies-locations-2/",
      "excerpt": "An overview of the uses of banking location data and how it can support mapping, analysis and planning across a range of projects.",
      "content": "UK Bank & Building Societies LocationsIn an increasingly digital world, the way customers access financial services is dramatically changing. Yet one thing remains constant: people still need to know where they can access banking services. Whether it’s a high-street branch, a building society, or a community financial hub, accurate and up-to-date location information continues to play a vital role in customer experience, financial planning, accessibility research and allocating service provision.For those and other reasons, in 2021 Geolytix started releasing the locations of major bank & building societies across the UK. A reliable, openly available resource that gives businesses, researchers and public organisations the ability to integrate this data into their work.Updated every six months, our open dataset includes the locations of 36 of the biggest banks and building society operators across the UK. We offer expanded commercial add-ons for organisations that need even further detail, whether that be additional operators or opening hours.\n\n\n\nUnderstanding Financial AccessibilityAccess to financial services is not evenly distributed across the UK. Rural areas, older communities and lower-income regions can face reduced banking access due to branch closures and consolidation.Our dataset enables:\nAnalysis of where physical banking services are still available\nResearch into banking deserts\nPlanning for mobile banking services or local financial support initiatives\n\n\n\n\n\nPowering Location-Based ApplicationsDevelopers and businesses increasingly rely on location data to enrich user experiences. Our dataset can be integrated into:\nMaps, apps and digital tools that help users find their nearest branch\nCustomer-facing financial tools that direct clients to in-person services\nAccessibility platforms that highlight essential community services\nRetail or commercial analysis looking at demand and footfall\n\n\n\n\n\nSupporting Financial Service ProvidersBanks and building societies themselves can benefit from understanding the landscape:\nBenchmark branch coverage against competitors\nIdentify areas of saturation or opportunity\nSupport decisions around expansion, relocation, or consolidation\nEnhance internal mapping and resource-allocation tools\n\n\n\n\n\nWhat Geolytix Offer\nVerified branch locations\nCoverage of 36 banks and building societies\nUK-wide distribution\nConsistent formatting for easy integration\nOpen usage with limited restrictions\n\n\n\n\n\n✔ Optional Paid Add-OnsFor clients requiring greater depth, we offer extra attributes in an enriched dataset, including additional operators and opening hours. These add-ons are competitively priced, updated on the same schedule, and available in flexible formats to suit your workflow.\n\n\n\nAccessing the DataYou can download the latest version from here with an accompanying user guide, alternatively visualise, search, filter and download the data in MAPP here: https://geolytixmapp.com/product If your work involves geospatial analysis, service planning, community research or financial accessibility, this dataset can certainly save you time. We would love to hear how you are using the data, contact us here.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPhoto by Alicja Ziajowska on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix and Superdrug: Shortlisted at the DataIQ Awards 2025",
      "date": "Wed Nov 05 2025 08:31:01 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/dataiq-awards-2025-finalists/",
      "excerpt": "We’re proud to be shortlisted with Superdrug for the DataIQ Awards, recognising our collaboration and innovation in new ways of working with data.",
      "content": "We're incredibly proud to announce our joint nomination with Superdrug for the 'New Ways of Working with Data' category at the DataIQ Awards this week.Superdrug has ambitious plans to expand their presence on the high street, rather than simply commissioning analysis, the Superdrug Insights team partnered with us to collaborate and upskill their analysts in new ways of working with spatial data.This partnership has empowered Superdrug to identify optimal 'white space' opportunities by combining their loyalty data with Geolytix’s extensive geospatial data. Key to this shift is the Geolytix MAPP platform, which allows their teams to self-serve powerful insights, from mapping competitor locations to using essential small area footfall data.Their Property and Finance teams can now assess opportunities with confidence and speed, bringing tangible evidence and significant savings to the business.We're delighted to have been working with Superdrug for a year now and look forward to what the future holds for this relationship. We’re wishing the best of luck to everyone at the awards ceremony."
    },{
      "title": "Navigating the AI Fog of War",
      "date": "Fri Oct 03 2025 09:43:40 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/navigating-the-ai-fog-of-war/",
      "excerpt": "This blog grapples with the AI “fog of war”, exploring future challenges Geolytix may face. Blair reflects on key themes from the recent Geographic Data Service partner conference.",
      "content": "Business isn’t war, thank God else I would have been shot very dead very long ago, but I still learn from military writers. Coping with incomplete and contradictory intelligence, Clausewitz’s ‘Fog of War’; and the importance of planning ‘every battle is won or lost before it is fought’ as Sun Tzu puts it.Trying to pull focus on the shadows I glimpse through the AI fog and deciding what they mean for Geolytix’s future battles is one of my main jobs. It has always been true that talking to real experts in real life over real coffee (or real wine) is a great way, maybe the best, to learn. Which brings me to the inaugural Geographic Data Service (GDS) partner conference that I went to last month. The GDS is the successor to the Consumer Data Research Council (CDRC) and features the same wonderful roster of the world’s best researchers, industry heavyweights, and policy makers. The fifteen talks on Friday were given by some of the best in our little corner of the spatial data science world, and they all touched on AI. We were spared vendor pitches, TEDx wannabes, and case study humble brags. All thriller no filler. Rather than review the talks I have tried to distil the day down to themes.\n\n\n\nAI-enabled Data Creation & EnhancementAI’s and agentic collections of them are scarily good at doing data creation and augmentation. From mining the Mapillary image stream to find Starbucks stores, to feature additions for existing definitive data sets (backfilling opening years for our UK supermarket data coming soon for example) to generating real time maps from trace data. AI out the box is just very good at doing this today. The best way of harnessing this appears to be an open data model, but that faces the same perennial challenges so eloquently summed up by Stewart Brand and so frequently misquoted as ‘data wants to be free’; the actual quote is ‘information is valuable and thus wants to be expensive, but the cost of distribution is constantly decreasing, leading to a desire for freeness’. Meta, Amazon, Microsoft are spending a lot of effort here. Expect to see Overture and related projects rapidly gain utility, traction and coverage. Businesses based solely on proprietary data are in for a heck of a challenge. AI’s first foundational shift in our industry is happening now in data creation.\n\n\n\nText Based Disciplines Facing DisruptionWhere an industry (law, strategy consulting), study area (psychology), or human skill (writing computer code) is fundamentally text based the power of today’s LLM’s is astonishingly superior to any individual human. Here, it does feel like we are in Wile E Coyote territory, off the cliff but he hasn’t realised he is about to fall yet. I hadn’t really joined the dots, so to speak, on the importance of whether a discipline is at its core text based or not. Numerical and spatial disciplines will come later, but where something is captured via writing the collections of LLM’s properly corralled are out the box able today, to pretty much solve any challenge thrown their way. Text based subjects fall first to AI, in order of text purity.\n\n\n\nThe Web is Going Dark and so are the old Web Business ModelsWe, I’m sure, are all noticing this, but maybe haven’t figured out what happens next. Google’s omnibox and new ‘AI mode’, plus Microsoft Copilot and Apple Smart Search are changing the way people interact with the great card catalogue that enables humans to navigate the world wide web. In the good old days, we would search for ‘chocolate cake recipe’ receive a ranked list of pages with cake recipes and then visit one (generating an advertising stream) and read about cakes. Now we get to specify a bit more and get our recipe direct. This new process relies on training an LLM on vast amounts of content concerning, chocolate, cakes, recipes; and chocolate-cake, cake-recipe, chocolate-recipe and chocolate-cake-recipes. This LLM then generates a string of text direct to us bypassing the source that the card catalogue summarised. The giant merry-go-round of income where clicks led to money, and visits led to more clicks and more money is breaking down. The (God I hate this phrase) content creators are responding by banning the robots from reading and so training on their text. Over 60% of top tier news sources have strict no crawl and robot banning policies. The open web model and associated click based monetization is over.\n\n\n\nData as Fuel & Model CollapseAll AI starts with data, and is itself data. People who deeply understand the data they are using to fuel their models build better AI. People in the data business have always known this, but it's worth reminding everyone. All data is created with a reason and unless you understand that reason you won’t understand the data’s weaknesses and strengths. If location data streams from an app on a phone when the phone acquires signal… yeah you are going to see hotspots outside of places where people pop up out of tunnels. If you are examining spatial variations in food prices it is sort of useful if you know that all the UK supermarkets operate national price files so any variation you are seeing is not spatial but is brand mix driven. Using the public web as your fuel carries many risks. Core code itself becomes data via the tokenisation of massive source code repositories. It is turtles, or rather data, all the way down. A foundational risk is model collapse. As content, both fundamental training data and the software code itself, becomes AI generated you are training on second generation content. As the content/training merry-go-round spins your model generations exponentiate and your models start to misbehave and eventually collapse. It is data all the way down, and eating your own output is dangerous.\n\n\n\nFoundational Spatial Model R&DGardener ‘Frame of Mind’ placed Linguistic, numerical and spatial/visual as the core of our standard ideas of intelligence. His other dimensions like music, body, and interpersonal intelligence are out of reach for AI for now but will have to be developed for a true AGI. There is a huge effort to bring maths and statistics within the current AI realm to sit alongside the linguistic skills of LLM’s. The visual is somewhat covered by the image generators but true spatial intelligence… not so much, for now. A strange set of circumstances are holding us up for now. Lack of critical mass of rare skills, inability to freely access the sweet, sweet gravy of rich comprehensive behavioural training data, regulatory and reputational risk. These all combine with the problem that spatial data or behaviour is not canonical in the same way that words or numbers are. We struggle with old problems like the Modifiable Areal Unit Problem, the curse of dimensionality and the ecological fallacy. These all make spatial AI plain harder, not impossible but hard, currently unrewarding and therefore rare. There is, as far as I can tell, little foundational research into explicitly spatial AIs.\n\n\n\nHuman Judgement is Hard to ReplicateContent can be magicked out of the stray 0s and 1s of an AI cluster. But judging that content still seems a task humans are supremely good at for now. Maybe the AI don’t yet have the deep memories and bank of experiences humans do. Maybe they need bodies before they can really know how to advise us on well bodies. Perhaps there is some weird interaction between our genes, our wet human chemistry and the electro-chemical substrate of our minds that AI can’t yet fathom when it comes to music and beauty. But for now, an art expert can spot a real Monet hiding amongst 100 AI replicas. And by extension in the human areas of expertise in our business humans still triumph. Site visits remain essential for now. In areas requiring deep human experience and multi-faceted tangential insights humans win.\n\n\n\nEthics and Guardrails are Intractable.Words can kill people. Words are now written by robots. The ethical pitfalls are obvious. We don’t need grenade dropping drones to face the danger of robots killing people. It happens in the mundane chat of therapist bots, the poor decisions made by autonomous vehicles, the edge cases not seen by the algorithm designer. One such example shared with us was in the Californian wildfires. The in-car routing engines seek out roads with low traffic, roads being engulfed by flames had low traffic, people got routed into life threatening fires. Who was to blame? I don’t know but I do know we all have to ponder that question. In the legal arena, are we going to pass laws(!) that insist only humans can give advice or make judgement? When a distraught human reaches out to be heard, does it matter that the listener is a robot? Do we need to control powerful AI as we control nuclear weapons? Our industry is niche, and we sometimes pooh-pooh these worries, but they will bite us, and bite us hard, somewhere some time. We need to talk about morals more.\n\n\n\n(No AI was used in the research, composition or editing of this post… but I do use AI assistants daily and they shape my worldview now, I did use Google to fact check a few bits, and MS Word for a grammar/readability check so I guess AI was used).Author: Blair Freebairn, CEO of GEOLYTIXTitle Image: Photo by Luke Jones / Unsplash "
    },{
      "title": "From Footsteps to Forecasts: The Power of Small Area Footfall",
      "date": "Fri May 30 2025 13:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/footsteps-to-forecasts-power-of-small-area-footfall/",
      "excerpt": "Discover how Geolytix footfall data can transform the way you understand your locations and identify where to open next.",
      "content": "Geolytix Small Area Footfall has quickly established itself as one of our most popular UK datasets. Used and loved by clients and modellers alike who find immense benefit in using the power of mobility data to show which areas of Retail Places are busy (or not!) when making site decisions. One of the most loved things about our dataset is its resolution. Reported in 20m hexes, we provide one of the most granular footfall breakdowns available in the UK market. Our latest update, released earlier this month, is available in over 20,000 Retail Places across the UK, a 25% increase on previous releases. \n\n\n\nBuilding confidence in our approachAt Geolytix we are in the privileged position of being a consultancy with the freedom to choose the right data source for the project or product at hand. This freedom of choice and breadth of access to different data sources allows us to understand the relative strengths and weaknesses of each of the datasets we use.On top of this, having spent years working with mobility data from multiple different suppliers, and experimenting with its capabilities, we’re very clear on what we will confidently report in products derived from SDK driven mobility data (for more detail, see this post, which is still wonderfully relevant!), and what we won’t. For example, one frequent request is to see the footfall count for a very specific time period (weekday evenings, for example). We find that by cutting the data multiple ways, any sample becomes too small to report with any real certainty. As a result, while we confidently report annual average footfall counts, we will use indexes to report different time periods (weekday vs weekend, or ‘daypart’ - a grouping of hours of the day).Another example of a common question is whether mobility data can be used to track change over time. Unfortunately, we find the nature of SDK mobility data feeds too volatile to report temporal changes. The approach requires a large amount of external ‘stabilising’ data (which we used for our now discontinued ‘Footfall Tracker’ product) to help tell the real story of change. For these change based questions we now prefer to use banking data, which while still not perfect, has proven to be inherently more stable over time. \n\n\n\nContinuous improvementBringing these insights to life, taking our experience, along with feedback from clients and our own teams (who use the data for modelling and analysis projects themselves), we’ve landed what we consider to be some major improvements. Improved resolutionPart of the process of creating a footfall product is to smooth the raw data. Mobile phones don’t ‘ping’ all the time, but the people carrying them cannot teleport from one place to another. We use smoothing techniques to interpolate movement between different hexes. We’ve improved this logic to render Retail Places in sharper relief than in previous years, allowing our user to pinpoint more clearly the busiest spots. Example: Bluewater shopping centre, 2023 vs. 2024\n\n\n\nNew ‘Unique Visitor’ metricWe have created a new measure that shows the number of unique visitors per day in a given Retail Place. We expect that this will allow both us and our clients to rank the relative busyness of different retail places, allowing them to prioritise targets for new store expansion. More sources of ground truthingWe have incorporated more ground truthed footfall counts than ever before. From publicly available information sources, through to commissioned surveys, and even our own team carrying out targeted counts, we’ve left no stone unturned to ensure we’re reporting sensible numbers. …and always room for more!We never shy away from describing our footfall product as a modelled result. Irrespective of your data source, any nationally available product will always rely on modelling to scale the sampled data to general coverage. As with any model, there can always be improvements. We’ve already got some ideas ahead of next years update!Have a look for yourselfIf you have any feedback on our footfall product, or would like a demonstration, then please get in touch at info@geolytix.com.\n\n\n\n\nPhoto by Jonathan MONCK-MASON on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Cracking Code: Highlights from the Data Science Hackathon",
      "date": "Fri Mar 28 2025 12:26:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/highlights-data-science-hackathon-2025/",
      "excerpt": "Each year we host a Data Science Hackathon. Danny shares the goal and outcome of this years.",
      "content": "A few weeks ago we hosted our annual Data Science Hackathon. This has become an annual Geolytix tradition, and this was the 4th iteration. With previous hackathons focussing on regression, segmentation and analogue models, this year the goal was for each team to build a binary classification model.\n\n\n\nThe GoalThe main aim of the day is for everyone to try something new, in a no pressure environment, and hopefully learn something along the way! As for the exercise, this year’s goal was to accurately predict the results of direct marketing campaigns, for a Portuguese banking institution (a bit different to our usual spatial questions), using a classification approach of each team’s choosing. A feature matrix was provided, though feature engineering was required, with a few red herrings thrown into the mix. This included details on the customer themselves, wider market conditions, previous responses and other factors which might help determine how likely an existing customer is to purchase a particular product.\n\n\n\nThere was a host of different techniques used, and it was great to see so much variety and each team trying something new! Below are some of the approaches used:\nLogistic regression\nVarious GBMs (e.g. AdaBoost, CatBoost, LightGBM etc.)\nNeural networks\nDirect outputs from GPT4o\nTabNet\n\n\n\n\n\nThe models were then all applied to the same hold-out set. Impressively, all teams managed to build working models in just a single day, including visualisations on model contributions for 3 specific example hold-out records.We presented back the approaches, results and learnings at our monthly Data Science Forum. Discussion points included which metrics were most suitable when measuring the success of our models. This is an especially important question for a problem like this, where finding a “yes” is more important than avoiding a “no”, as call durations tend to be short (hence low-risk), and a customer subscribing to a product can be profitable to the bank. In our sample, ~1 in 10 customers would subscribe to, so there was significant bias in the likelihood of not subscribing. With this in mind, a combination of recall, F1 score and MCC were determined to be the most appropriate measure of model quality, in our case.\n\n\n\nNext year will be our fifth hackathon, so ideas on a postcard for our next challenge!Whilst a little different from our usual geospatial, if any of this sounds up your street, we’re also currently hiring for a Data Scientist position. Please see here for details:  https://geolytix.com/blog/could-you-be-our-next-data-scientist/\n\n\n\nWe promise the enjoyed it more than they look here\n\n\n\nAuthor: Danny Hart, Head of Data Science at GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "We’re a British Data Awards 2025 Finalist",
      "date": "Wed Mar 19 2025 06:41:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/british-data-awards-2025-finalist/",
      "excerpt": "Up against though competition from 448 entries we are delighted to be announced finalists in three categories at the British Data Awards 2025 for GEOLYTIX and GEOLYTIX MAPP.",
      "content": "We’re excited to announce that we’ve been named a Finalist in the British Data Awards 2025.\n\n\n\nThank you to the British Data Awards 2025 all-star judging panel for recognising GEOLYTIX and GEOLYTIX MAPP in three categories.A.I. Company of the YearInnovation of the YearTechnology Company of the Year\n\n\n\nThe British Data Awards is an annual quest to discover and celebrate the UK’s data success stories.A record 448 entries were received for the fifth edition of the British Data Awards which means that competition to be named a Finalist proved to be exceptionally strong, so we’re especially pleased to be recognised. Organisations taking part this year range from FTSE 100 heavyweights, public sector innovators, technology unicorns, fast-growing scale-ups, critical Not-For-Profits, and everything in between.Jason Johnson, Co-Founder of Predatech and British Data Awards judge said: “Judging so many excellent entries really is a huge challenge but also an enormous privilege. Every organisation named a Finalist this year should be exceptionally proud of this achievement. By sharing your data success stories with us, you’re also helping to showcase the strength and vibrancy of the UK’s data ecosystem, and I can’t wait to celebrate your achievements on the 14th of May.”\n\n\n\nWe are thrilled to hear that Geolytix and our product Geolytix MAPP are a finalist in three  award categories: A.I. Company of the Year, Innovation of the Year and Technology Company of the Year. The team have worked exceptionally hard over the last year and regardless of the outcome we are incredibly proud of the products we have created, services we have provided and we are thankful to everyone who plays a part in GEOLYTIX - thank you!"
    },{
      "title": "Danish Design and Hygge Homeware - variety store trends in the UK",
      "date": "Mon Mar 17 2025 07:40:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/sostrene-grene-danish-design-hygge-homeware-uk-growth/",
      "excerpt": "Josh reviews the grand opening of Søstrene Grene in Leeds along with other Danish brands taking the UK by storm. Who could be next?",
      "content": "This January we attended the grand opening of the latest UK branch of Danish variety retailer Søstrene Grene, at the Trinity shopping centre in Leeds. From our privileged position at #2 and #3 in the queue, we were treated to a tote bag of goodies, as well as a two-woman ballet performance set to a live string duet. At 10am on the dot we were led into the winding maze of homeware - organised not by room or theme, instead by hue - whereupon I quickly bought too many candles and a vase.\n\n\n\nTwo Geolytixers up early for the opening\n\n\n\nThis was Søstrene Grene's first UK opening of 2025, which held an energy and an eagerness that belied the stormy weather. They've been growing fast in the last 6 months, not just in the UK where they now have 46 locations, aiming for 100 by 2027, but also in Europe where there are over 250 more. They're not the first Danish variety store to take the UK by storm in recent years, but their aesthetic is notably different from Flying Tiger, who despite also offering some homeware items, mainly stock toys and accessories. What is it then about Danish variety that is so attractive to the British high street shopper, allowing them to compete with home-grown chains like B&M and Poundland?\n\n\n\nSøstrene Grene and Flying Tiger locations, UK February 2025 (Source: Geolytix Retail Universe)\n\n\n\nA feature of both Søstrene Grene and Flying Tiger, as well as another Danish variety store Normal that's yet to cross the Nordsøen, is the IKEA-style winding path layout, meaning you cannot see the whole of even a small store from the entrance. Combining this with the \"treasure hunt\" style shelving system (to quote Flying Tiger's former CEO Mette Maix), means that even with a specific shopping mission in mind, a customer must travel through the entire store, looking at every shelf with equal focus - meaning that they may end up with more in their basket than they expected by the tills.\n\n\n\nDanish variety is growing in the UK, could Normal be next?\n\n\n\nSøstrene Grene locations also hold a sense of exclusivity, with their products being primarily own-brand, injecting a feeling of luxury despite the lower price points. There's a lot of wood, ceramic and paper, with minimal single use plastics, both in the product lines and the décor. Many of the stores are being placed directly next to high end brands - the Oxford location which opened in the Westgate Shopping Centre this past August (2024) occupies the old Ted Baker unit, and is adjacent to the likes of Charles Tyrwhitt and Flannels.Could it be then that, with rising cost of living, shoppers want a bit of the indulgence that's normally associated with eclectic antiques shops or cosy handmade homeware, without the high prices those things usually demand?\n\n\n\nInterior of Søstrene Grene, Leeds\n\n\n\nDenmark's aren't the only variety shops to make their way onto British high streets of late. With over 7,000 locations worldwide, Chinese giant MINISO opened its first UK store in 2019, quickly reaching 35 sites by time of posting. We’ve got one in Leeds now too! Despite a later start than Flying Tiger, Søstrene Grene, or even Japanese retailer Muji who have been around in the UK since 1991, MINISO seems to be slotting neatly into all of the same city centre locations, and rapidly acquiring the rights to dozens of product IPs - thereby also directly competing with the gift & souvenir market.So it seems like this shift in UK variety retail has been building up for a decade or longer, and is now locked in post-Covid. Consumers are spending more time working from home, and want an affordable, hygge homelife surrounding them.\n\n\n\nGeolytix Retail Universe is a comprehensive data set of over 100,000\nstore locations covering more than 500 major brands across the UK.\n• Find your competition and spot opportunities, or avoid saturated areas\n• Locate benchmark brands to take advantage of existing footfall\n• Optimally locate your asset for potential customers\n• Understand the retail provision\n• Review locations to quickly identify potential or discount as an option\n• Monitor trends of sectors growing or declining\nGet in contact if you would like to know more about this data set.\n\n\n\n\nJosh Reynolds, Data Scientist at GEOLYTIXImages: Authors own"
    },{
      "title": "Leeds and the 15-Minute City: A Retail Perspective",
      "date": "Mon Mar 10 2025 11:11:57 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/leeds-tram-15-minute-city-a-retail-perspective/",
      "excerpt": "Leeds, the biggest city in Europe without a mass transit system. That is set to change. Freddie Wallace explores the benefits and challenges while evaluating the idea of a 15-minute city.",
      "content": "At GEOLYTIX, we love Leeds. It’s our home outside the capital and it’s been a big part of our journey. But like any city, Leeds has its problems.I recently read an article from the Economist titled ‘Must Leeds always lose?’ which compounded a fact I was told in my very first lecture at university here; it’s the biggest city in Europe without a mass transit system.The news in this domain is, however, bittersweet.Leeds will be getting a tram! …but no shovels will hit the ground of the city until 2028, and this will be followed by years of disruption. I heard the phrase “Leeds will be nice when it’s finished” muttered in a pub when I first arrived 5 years ago, and its fair to say that we will be waiting a while to see it.But despite my complaints in jest, better transport is vital for Leeds. After losing out (let’s not debate that right now) from Westminster on HS2, which could have secured greater national mobility for residents, Leeds must now find another way to boost its economy, and the tram could be vital to this.The Labour Government recently announced a devolution white paper which aims to hand power to the Mayor, Tracy Brabin in Leeds, to enact changes at a local level. As a resident of the city and an individual interested in retail landscapes, I investigate how this plan could be developed using the tram, urban planning concepts and lessons learned in Edinburgh.\n\n\n\nWhat Are We Talking About Here?Well, put simply the tram and development of Leeds is not just about making commutes easier. It’s about rethinking how people move, shop, and live. When places are well-connected, everything benefits - retail, culture, education, healthcare, jobs. Due to the relatively contained land area of the city centre a tram could easily pull Leeds towards the 15-minute city concept, popularised by Carlos Moreno in his 2016 book. His notion suggests that essential services - including shops - should be within a 15-minute journey via public transport, cycling or walking. It’s an idea that seems like common sense, yet has caused some controversy. Opposing views suggest they are a concept designed to control people's movements and track whereabouts and some councils have removed using the term altogether.\n\n\n\nThe reality?It’s simply about giving people more options. A well-designed city doesn’t stop anyone from driving - it just makes it easier not to. And for retail, that’s a good thing. More foot traffic can attract more local spend and encourage thriving high streets.But while some cities are shying away from the phrase, others - like Edinburgh - are quietly making it a reality.\n\n\n\nEdinburgh: A City That’s Making It WorkEdinburgh has embraced the principles of the 15-minute city, with plans for ‘20-minute neighbourhoods’.The Scottish capital has been laying the groundwork for years, weaving walkability and accessibility into its urban strategy.Edinburgh’s City Mobility Plan 2030 is all about reducing car dependency, with better public transport, cycling infrastructure, and pedestrian-friendly streets. The tram network also continues to expand in contrast to Leeds, where mass transit remains a distant promise.The city is also putting these principles into practice with new housing developments. Take Edinburgh Quay, for example - boasting a waterfront backdrop that blends modern apartments, office spaces, and leisure facilities with strong public transport links, including trams connecting it to the city centre. It’s a model that works for residents and businesses alike, keeping footfall high and ensuring commercial spaces remain vibrant. Unlike Leeds Dock, which is loosely connected by a small taxi boat from the city centre, Edinburgh Quay benefits from integration with Edinburgh’s transport network, making it more accessible and well-connected.This is highlighted by GEOLYTIX’s footfall data with Edinburgh Quay peaking at 25k per day compared to Leeds Dock’s 10K, despite the fact they sit similar distances from their respective city centres.GEOLYTIX Small Area Footfall for Leeds and surrounding Retail Places in MAPP\n\n\n\nThe Challenges of ChangeWhilst the benefits of a 15-minute city are recognisable and quantifiable they do not come without their own challenges.A key issue is affordability. Walkable, well-connected neighbourhoods are ultimately more attractive and in turn tend to become more expensive, potentially pricing people out. This issue will only be exacerbated by the growth of the universities and student accommodation in Leeds.Transforming car-reliant areas into pedestrian-friendly hubs takes time, investment, and political will.Train Stations and Retail Places surrounding Leeds City Centre in MAPP\n\n\n\nWhat Leeds Can LearnThe tram system is a step forward, but public transport alone won’t solve the city’s connectivity issues. The city needs a broader vision - one that prioritises well-connected, mixed-use neighbourhoods. Edinburgh offers a roadmap for how this can be tackled, whilst also highlighting areas from which Leeds could learn.In terms of context specific lessons, Leeds could benefit from the introduction of tram stops near key retail hubs, like how Edinburgh’s tram system connects major commercial areas like St James Quarter and Princes Street.Leeds could also look to the example of Manchester’s Metrolink - this system is used to travel in and out from surrounding areas, rather than hopping between stops in Manchester centre, due to its already largely walkable city centre. A Leeds system could include linking retail hubs such as Crown Point, The White Rose Centre, Birstall Shopping Park and Leeds Dock all without use of a car, and potentially within 15 minutes to the city.Manchester Metrolink Stations in MAPP\n\n\n\nCombined with City Square’s redevelopment to bring enhanced walkability, the potential exists to drive growth.15-minute cities are about adding choice and creating growth; The ability to walk to a shop, cycle to work, or grab a coffee without jumping in a car. And for retailers, that shift presents an exciting opportunity.\n\n\n\nHow Can Retailers Adapt?Should Leeds and other UK cities follow this development plan retailers will require strategy adaptation. Big retail parks, designed with cars in mind, will of course still have a place, but may be less relied upon for certain services in areas where walkability is prioritised. In addition, businesses will need to focus on how they also fit into more localised, foot-traffic-driven environments. Businesses that align with these urban changes will be best placed for success, with high streets, mixed-use developments, and pedestrian-friendly locations becoming increasingly important.Such strategies could be data-driven and the importance of micro geographies such as footfall data could play a key role. At GEOLYTIX we are aware of the changes on the horizon for retail and we would love to discuss them with you.\n\n\n\nFreddie Wallace, Client Solution Analyst at GEOLYTIX\n\n\n\nPhoto by Tim Lumley on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Top Five Takeaways from the CUSP Data Dive 2025",
      "date": "Thu Feb 27 2025 16:17:27 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/cusp-hackathon-2025/",
      "excerpt": "Blair was recently invited to judge the Centre for Urban Science and Progress (CUSP) Data Dive 2025. He shares five emergent themes upon reflecting on the day.",
      "content": "Will we have rainbows day after day? Que sera, sera, whatever will be will be. In uncertain times one thing I am sure will be is London remaining a global centre for geospatial thinking. One of the biggest pluses of having our UK offices in London and Leeds is the chance to work with some of the world’s best academics and students. The Geolytix team were with Leeds University students just this Monday. And last Friday I was with Masters and Phd Students from around the world at a hackathon hosted by Kings College.\n\n\n\nDr Yijing Li is group lead at the Centre for Urban Science and Progress (CUSP), a joint endeavour between Kings College London and New York University (NYU). She was kind enough to invite me to help judge the latest CUSP hackathon. This brought together 13 teams of students from Kings, NYU, Peking U and Abu Dhabi. It was great to hear them report back on their work on using data to support a sustainable London.\n\n\n\nAfter each team had walked us through their findings and recommendations I was struck by a number of emergent themes.Whenever you try and model any human outcomes at small scales affluence nearly always trumps (sometimes overwhelms) other affects.Students quickly discover age-old truths about data wrangling; missing values, data typing, incompatible definitions, outliers… Still tripping us all up same as when I was a baby analyst in the 1990s.Techniques like correlation matrices, linear regression are still the first go to, but the availability of standard modelling packages seems to dominate students approaches.Repurposing software from adjacent spaces to create new approaches is a fascinating development. I particularly like the use of Blender to analyse 3-d building datasets.Confident presenters are rare, and when you see one they stick in the memory. Top tip… get good at presenting as early in your career as possible.\n\n\n\nCongratulations to all the teams and also thanks to my fellow judges. Hearing from the next generation of Spatial Data Scientists is always joyful. They will have to navigate the coming (make no mistake it is coming) AI revolution, they will be the ones that ensure we have rainbows day after day.\n\n\n\nBlair Freebairn, CEO at GEOLYTIX\n\n\n\nJudges left to right: Jon Reades (CASA UCL), Blair Freebairn (GEOLYTIX), Sophie Johnson (Crown Estate), Tyler Woebkenberg (Entain), Peter Baudains (CUSP)"
    },{
      "title": "GEOLYTIX are Geoawesome - Global Top 100 Geospatial Companies",
      "date": "Wed Feb 05 2025 10:51:18 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/top-100-geospatial-company-geoawesomeness-2025/",
      "excerpt": "We are thrilled to make the Geoawesome Top 100 Geo for 2025, the annual list of the best geospatial companies in the world.",
      "content": "The Global Top 100 Geospatial Companies 2025 list was unveiled on Friday 31st January 2025 and we are delighted to be listed for a third time. This list is an annual ranking of the most innovative and influential companies shaping the geospatial industry.\n\n\n\nOver 1000 companies were reviewed by a distinguished and diverse expert committee of eleven members, we are honoured to have then made the shortlist of 261 companies and finally voted to be one of the Global Top 100 Geospatial Companies list for 2025.\n\n\n\n\"The Global Top 100 Geospatial Companies 2025 serves as a key resource for professionals, investors, and decision-makers looking to understand the evolving landscape of geospatial technology. From startups disrupting the market to established giants setting new benchmarks, this list reflects the diversity and dynamism of our industry.\"\n\n\n\nThank you to the Geoawesome committee for recognising us and thank you to our wonderful team for all their dedicated work to making us a truly fantastic and valued geospatial company. This is the third time we have been recognised by Geoawesomness as one of the top geospatial companies in the world having also been listed in 2023 and 2021.Well done to all the other companies who have also been recognised on the 2025 edition.\n\n\n\n"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix MAPP: Global Location Intelligence at your fingertips",
      "date": "Fri Jan 10 2025 09:58:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/geolytix-mapp-spatial-intelligence-customised-for-you/",
      "excerpt": "MAPP, our online mapping tool, allows anybody to use location data for business decision-making. The tool, which is accessed on an internet browser via unique login-credentials, is secure and available whenever and wherever you are.",
      "content": "MAPP, our online mapping tool, allows anybody to use location data for business decision-making. The tool, which is accessed on an internet browser via unique login-credentials, is secure and available whenever and wherever you are.Geolytix MAPP provides access to global data and spatial analytical tooling to help you to assess a potential location. Overlaying multiple datasets, displaying them on a map and analysing them geographically can be incredibly powerful. It can help you to understand a location before you’ve even had a chance to visit it. And whilst there’s never anything quite as valuable as seeing the place in real life (as covered in our Site Visit blog), it could help to save time by narrowing down the list of potential opportunities to explore.For example, using MAPP you can overlay:\n\nYour store locations\nYour competitor store locations\nGeolytix Retail Places\n\nUsing the tooling that is available to you in MAPP, you might learn that 53% of your estate are in Retail Parks, there are 46 locations where your competitor has a presence where you do not, and of the top 20 retail parks in the UK you are only located in 12 of them. You might then want to bring in catchment demographics and suddenly the list of 58 that you started with quickly whittles down to 27, with 31 being ruled out due to poor brand-alignment.Once you have refined the list even further, MAPP lets you add a pin-marker to the map at the precise location and generate a summary report (or dashboard). This can be easily shared with other stakeholders in your organisation in support of investment board decisions.Obviously, this is a very hypothetical scenario, and there is usually much more to it than that, but hopefully this starts to give you a bit of a flavour as to how MAPP - together with the data it houses and tooling it provides - can quickly help you to refine your search and help you to derive a target opportunity list to take a closer look at.To bring it to life further and to see how MAPP might be able to support you, please don’t hesitate to contact us about how you can register for a free trial.\n\n\n\nJasmin Fitzpatrick, Head of Product (MAPP) at Geolytix\n\n\n\nFirst published: 1st August 2022\nLast updated: 10th January 2025\n"
    },{
      "title": "Grocery Growth: UK Supermarket and Convenience Openings in 2024",
      "date": "Tue Dec 31 2024 16:15:13 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/grocery-growth-uk-supermarket-convenience-openings-2024/",
      "excerpt": "2024 saw major shifts in UK grocery retail with bold expansions, innovative formats, and strategic closures shaping the industry.",
      "content": "2024 has been a transformative year for the UK grocery sector, marked by significant expansions across convenience stores. The supermarket retail landscape continues to evolve in response to shifting consumer preferences. In this blog, we’ll delve into the highlights of the year, summarizing the most notable store openings, trends, and innovative strategies shaping the industry. Whether you’re tracking retail developments or simply curious about the changing face of your local high street, this summary offers an insightful overview of 2024’s most exciting grocery milestones.\n\n\n\nIn September 2023 Aldi hit the 1,000 milestone with their store opening in Woking. Since then they have opened 51 stores, a combination of new and relocations, 29 of these openings were in 2024:\n\nEast of England: Waltham Cross\n\n\nEast Midlands: Ellistown, Shepshed, Swadlincote\n\n\nLondon: Beckton, Holloway, Leytonstone, Muswell Hill\n\n\nNorth West: Ashton In Makerfield, Congleton, Preston, Skelmersdale\n\n\nNorth East: -\n\n\nSouth East: High Wycombe, Horsham, Olney, Queenborough, Totton\n\n\nSouth West: Bristol\n\n\nWest Midlands: Mere Green, Rugeley, Sedgley\n\n\nYorkshire & The Humber: Goole, Middleton Leeds\n\n\nScotland: Castle Douglas, Dundee, Loadhead, MacDuff\n\n\nWales: Aberdare, Newport\n\n\nOf the eight closures in 2024, seven locations still have Aldi presence in the same towns: Airdrie, Middleton Leeds, Middleton Greater Manchester, Newport, Preston, Rugeley, Selby. Aldi Sheerness closed with the opening of a store in July 2024 in the next town along, Queensbury.Aldi has announced it plans to invest around £650 million across Britain next year. The supermarket is targeting around 30 new store openings in total in 2025, contributing to their previously stated plans to grow to 1,500 across the UK.Aldi opened its first UK store in Stechford, Birmingham, in 1990. The 'Aldi Local' concept was first launched with a 6,500sq ft store in Balham, London in 2019. The format is smaller than a standard Aldi and typically stock a reduced product range with a focus on more grab and go items. This fascia can be found across Greater London with the most recent opening on Holloway Road, Islington on the 24th October 2024.\n\n\n\nAmazon Fresh opened their first store one day short of a year since their last opening, West Hampstead opened on 28th November 2024. This takes the brand to 21 locations across Greater London.\n\n\n\nAsda has 1,106 stores across the UK with their supermarkets, superstores, supercentres, express and living stores.In 2020 Asda launched their 'On The Move' fascia to expand its presence in the convenience sector and increase the number of customers who could access their products by opening roadside and neighbourhood locations. In February 2023 they celebrated the opening of their 100th On The Move store. By late 2023 Asda began converting the 'On the Move' stores to 'Asda Express', as part of their broader initiative to accelerate growth in the convenience market.2024 welcomed 262 Asda Express openings taking their total to 478. One supermarket opened in May 2024 at Hale Barns, Altrincham in the closed Booths store. Of the 99 closures Asda made in the year, there was one Asda Express in Feniscowles, a village west of Blackburn and ninety-eight Asda On The Move conversions or closures.\n\n\n\nBooths is a chain of high-end supermarkets in Northern England. They have 26 stores; 15 stores in Lancashire, 7 in Cumbria, 3 in Yorkshire and 1 in Cheshire. 2015 was the biggest year for Booths when they opened five new stores: Barrowford, Burscough, Poulton, St Annes and Hale Barns, the latter closed in April 2024.In May 2021 Booths introduced a new wine bar concept at Booths Lytham. The Gallery Wine Bar offers morning coffee and pastries, light lunches and evening drinks.\n\n\n\nBudgens has 385 stores, 384 across Great Britain primarily in England with 4 stores in Scotland and 2 stores in Wales. Budgens has had a busy year, opening 77 stores and closing twenty-six. 2024 openings included their first store in Guernsey, in the area of Vale.\n\n\n\nThe Co-operative Group continue to open and close stores. 2024 saw forty new openings and over one hundred closures taking them to over 2,400 locations across the UK. The openings are a range of standalone, parades, universities and hospitals. Most closures are standalone sites, parades, village and urban centres, some being converted to Asda Express. Various co-operative societies in the UK have undertaken strategic decisions regarding their store portfolios, leading to both openings and closures.\n\n\n\nCOOK offer hand-prepared, frozen meals through their stores and from over 1,000 independent stockists across Great Britain. The brand has gone from strength to strength since opening a small shop in Farnham in March 1997. COOK celebrated opening their 100th shop in Poynton in March 2024, along with 5 other openings this year:\nCOOK Poynton (March 2024)\nCOOK Heswall (June 2024)\nCOOK St Albans (July 2024)\nCOOK Chelmsford (October 2024)\nCOOK Frinton on Sea (November 2024)\nCOOK Christchurch (November 2024)\n\n\n\n\n\nCostco have warehouses in fourteen countries, entering China in 2019 and New Zealand in 2022. They first opened in the UK in 1993 in West Thurrock, Essex and now have 29 stores across Great Britain. The most recent opening was in July 2019 in Stevenage. Last year articles suggested that Costco had intentions to open 14 news stores over the next two years. In December 2024 Gloucester City Council approved plans for a new Costco store with construction expected to start as soon as possible.\n\n\n\nDunnes Stores is an Irish multinational retail chain which has locations in Ireland, Spain and 15 stores in Northern Ireland (NI don't currently sell grocery). In 2023 they reported their best financial year in their Northern business for a decade. \n\n\n\nThe frozen food retailer Farmfoods has 351 locations across Great Britain. In spring 2024 they reported their annual turnover had passed £1bn. They have been averaging 13 openings a year for the last 5 years but in 2024 announced they are targeting 20 to 30 new stores a year with a focus on London. This year they opened fifteen locations, four of which within Greater London and closed four.\n\n\n\nHeron Foods have 313 stores across England and Wales, 21 stores were opened in 2024, the most in a single year since 2020. The majority of their locations are in Town Centres and on Parades. The three store closures this year were all relocations to nearby units; Langrick Boston, Newton Aycliffe and St Helens.\n\n\n\nIceland opened 13 new stores in 2024, all but one being under The Food Warehouse fascia. A combination of new stores, relocations and fascia changes. Iceland closed 12 stores this year; eight Town Centres, one Retail Park, two standalone Shopping Centres and one Urban Centre, some being relocations. In Dagenham the supermarket relocated a few minutes walk to the former Wilko store in Heathway Shopping Centre.\n\n\n\nLidl has 1,010 stores across the UK, 24 openings in 2024, a similar number to 2023 but lower than in previous years. Lidl had announced plans in 2021 to reach 1,100 stores by the end of 2025, but in 2023 revealed they had scaled back plans.While Lidl continue to open standalone locations, Retail Park locations have slowed and this year they haven't opened any new City Centre locations to join the existing seven: Belfast, Bristol, Glasgow, Liverpool, Manchester, Sheffield and Southampton. The brand opened eight new stores on two days in December 2024 including Caterham Town Centre, Forest Gate Urban Centre in East London. Northern Irelands 43rd Lidl opened in place of the derelict Carryduff Shopping Centre. 2024 regional openings:\n\nEast of England: Downham Market, Hemel Hempstead, Ipswich\n\n\nEast Midlands: Long Eaton\n\n\nLondon: East Ham, Forest Gate, Fulham Broadway, Hoxton, Newbury Park, Wandsworth\n\n\nNorth West: Altrincham\n\n\nNorth East: -\n\n\nSouth East: Alton, Burgess Hill, Caterham, Shinfield, Worthing\n\n\nSouth West: Bovey Tracey, Bristol\n\n\nWest Midlands: Birmingham - Selly Oak\n\n\nYorkshire & The Humber: -\n\n\nNorthern Ireland: Belfast, Carryduff\n\n\nScotland: Edinburgh - Meadowbank, Edinburgh - Pilgrig\n\n\nWales: Connah's Quay\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMakro, a Cash & Carry retailer, began its operations in the UK in 1971 and has 26 locations across the UK. In 2012 it was acquired by Booker from German based company Metro. There have been no recent new Makro store openings in the UK.\n\n\n\nThis year Marks & Spencer (M&S) has been actively expanding and refurbishing its store network. A combination of company owned and franchised stores takes their estate to 1,055.New store openings in 2024 include Washington The Galleries (30th May), Dundee Gallagher Retail Park (16th July), Selby Three Lakes Foodhall (28th November) and Battersea Power Station (4th December). In a strategic shift, M&S opened its first clothing-only store in London's Battersea Power Station this year. The store focuses exclusively on clothing and beauty products, marking a departure from the traditional combination of food and clothing offerings.M&S Brixton Road reopened on 20th November 2024 after a seven-month refurb.Closures this year include Peterborough, Neath, Sunderland (May 2024), Walworth, Ilford (June 2024), Dundee (July 2024), Leicester, Redhill (August 2024) and Crawley (Nov 2024).\n\n\n\nMorrisons are nearing 500 full range stores thanks to their opening in new town Cranbrook, Exeter on the 12th December 2024 taking them to 497. Morrisons first trialled their convenience fascia Morrisons Daily in 2015, which was developed to tap into the growing demand for convenience shopping by providing essentials and serving local communities with accessible locations, many located at petrol stations, via smaller-format stores. The chain have expanded their Daily fascia rapidly, in part due to the acquisition of McColl's in 2022. As of September 2024 all remaining shops were converted to Morrisons Daily and in May 2024 Morrisons acquired 38 stores in the Channel Islands from long term partner SandpiperCI. With 488 openings in 2024 and 361 in 2023 this takes the fascia to 1,244 locations. A combination of Morrisons, Morrisons Select and Morrisons Daily takes the brand to 1,745 locations. They don't plan to slow down either, aiming to open 400 more stores by 2025, which would bring their total to 2,000. \n\n\n\nPlanet Organic, probably the UK's first organic supermarket first opened in 1995 in Westbourne Grove, London. The brand has 9 stores across London with no openings or closures occurring in 2024.\n\n\n\nSainsbury's have had a similar number of openings in 2024 as in 2023 but fewer closures with only three, down from eleven in 2023. With twenty-one new Sainsbury's Locals and three new Sainsburys; Llantrisant, Southport & Winchburgh, this takes the retailer to 1,444 stores, 845 of which are Locals.2024 also welcomed Sainsbury's first ever airport store, opening at Edinburgh Airport on the 12th December and is located before security. They also opened their first city centre store since 2021 with the Sainsbury's Local on Oldham Street in Manchester.\n\n\n\nKeeping track of symbol groups can be a challenge all of its own. For those unfamiliar, a symbol group is a type of franchise where independent shops trade under a common banner, but are not owned or operated by the group. This means there can be large scale changes, 2024 alone saw 102 Spar additions and 122 Spar closures.\n\n\n\nSeventy-two new Tesco's opened in 2024 taking the chain to over 2,900 locations across the UK under their Superstores, Extras and Express'. Of the 64 new Express stores, three of them can be found on the Isle of Man (Castletown, Peel, Ramsey). Of the eight new superstores opening this year, five opened on the Isle of Man (Douglas, Onchan, Peel, Port Erin, Ramsey) taking the Tesco island total to nine, this is due to the purchase of Shoprite which was agreed towards the end of 2023.Tesco closed nine stores in 2024, two of those being superstores; Chippenham and High Wycombe. In August Chippenham lost its central superstore but opened a Tesco Express nearby. A similar situation occurred in High Wycombe in October but this store has only closed till next autumn while its under renovation, a temporary express store has opened in the meantime.\n\n\n\nWaitrose opened its first store in six years, Little Waitrose Hampton Hill opened on November 28th 2024. It's great to see a new opening from the retailer after a quiet few years, and it looks set to continue. In August 2024 they announced plans to open up to 100 convenience shops in the next five years. Their partnerships with Welcome Break and Shell are sure to play a role in the Waitrose convenience growth strategy. In January 2025 Waitrose will join Pret, Starbucks, KFC and Burger King at the new Rotherham Services Welcome Break.\n\n\n\nWhole Foods Market have five stores in London after the closures of their Fulham and Richmond stores in Spring 2024. In growth news for the brand they have signed a lease to open at One Twenty King's Road, Chelsea. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGrocery Retailer Opening and Closures in 2024Source: GEOLYTIX Grocery Retail Points (December 2024)\n\n\n\nGrocery Retailer Openings by Retail Place TypeWhen analysing the new openings against Geolytix Retail Places, parades were the favoured location type to open on in 2024 for grocery retailers, which follows the trend of previous years. This year Town Centres have seen an increase, accounting for 17% of 2024 openings, up from 9% in 2023 and 5% in 2022. Village Centres are also experiencing an increase compared to previous years with 14% of this year openings locating here, an increase from 10% in 2023 and 8% in 2022. Retail Parks on the other hand have seen a fall in grocery openings compared to their peak in 2020 which accounted for 17% of the openings that year, slowly decreasing to 10% in 2022, 7% in 2023 and 6% in 2024. This is not surprising given the increase in motivation by many grocery retailers for a smaller convenience store offer focusing on neighbourhood and roadside locations.\n\n\n\nGrocery Retailer Openings by RegionLidl favoured London (25%) and the South East (21%) which accounted for nearly half of their openings in 2024. The South East region was most popular for new Aldi's too, welcoming 17% of their 2024 openings, followed by London, North West & Scotland each contributing 14% of new stores. Neither opened stores in the North East. Lidl, M&S, Spar and Tesco were the only retailers to open new stores in Northern Ireland. Asda Express and Morrisons Daily both opened or converted nearly a fifth of their new 2024 stores in the South East region.\n\n\n\nSummary of 20242024 has been another interesting year for the UK grocery sector; significant store openings, strategic closures, and dynamic shifts across major supermarket chains and convenience locations. Key trends include increased investment in convenience formats, improvements to existing stores and relocations, regional expansion, and a focus on meeting evolving consumer preferences. These developments highlight a competitive market with retailers striving to adapt and innovate. 2025 looks set to be another exciting year.\n\n\n\nWhere can I access the data?GEOLYTIX tracks 22 grocery retailers and the above analyses those brands. In October 2024 we celebrated 10 years of releasing this open data set, we are extremely proud to release our Grocery Retail Points quarterly. You can view and download the data here. We would love to hear how you use this completely free and open to use data, please tag us on LinkedIn @Geolytix or email us at info@geolytix.com.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLouise Cross, Product Owner at GEOLYTIXNumbers reported are based on Geolytix data, research and openly available information.Photo by Scott Warman on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "GEOLYTIX and the 30 Day Map Challenge 2024",
      "date": "Mon Dec 09 2024 10:35:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/30-day-map-challenge-2024/",
      "excerpt": "Daily social mapping project happening every November: https://30daymapchallenge.com/. The third year we have joined this as a team, see all our maps here.",
      "content": "The team created maps based around different daily themes for a social mapping project happening every November. Always great to see what ideas our team and others come up with for the various topics each day.\n\n\n\n📅 Day 1: Points by Louise CrossUK Grocery Retail PointsWe kicked off the month with not only a map but some open data! You can download the data behind this map here.\n\n\n\n📅 Day 2: Lines by Louise CrossConnecting Capital Cities📅 Day 3: Polygons by Louise CrossGeolytix Retail Places📅 Day 4: Hexagons by Josh ReynoldsHex Cartograms of UK Election & Geolytix Shopper Towns📅 Day 5: Journey by Louise CrossGeolytix Interaction Surfaces📅 Day 6: Raster by Ilya IlyankouCentral London & Oxford Street at Night📅 Day 7: Vintage by Simon LeechGeolytix MAPP through the years📅 Day 8: HDX Data by Neil FarrickerSecurity Incidents in South Sudan📅 Day 9: AI by Christoph MulligannAnguilla as drawn by AI📅 Day 10: Pen & Paper by Aimee Thomason & Rebecca MellorKnow your town like the back of your hand, Leeds by memory and pencil📅 Day 11: Arctic by Louise Cross8 countries in the Artic region📅 Day 12: Time & Space by Freddie WallaceGeolytix Small Area Footfall across Manchester Retail Place📅 Day 13: A New Tool by Kieron FerreyFirst time for Kieron using QGIS📅 Day 14: A World Map by Louise CrossGeolytix Urban Areas📅 Day 15: My Data by Jasmin FitzpatrickJasmin's running routes from Strava📅 Day 16: Choropleth by Christoph MulligannHelicopter Prion Escapes according to Wikipedia📅 Day 17: Collaborative by Imogen FrancisGeolytix's favourite restaurants📅 Day 18: 3D by Brendon EdwardsPedestrian Busyness in Kuala Lumpur📅 Day 19: Typology by Josh ReynoldsOrigins of popular fonts in Europe and USA📅 Day 20: OSM by Louise CrossOpenStreetMap edits by country📅 Day 21: Conflict by Will JohnsonConflicts based on ACLED Conflict Index📅 Day 22: Two Colours by Owen HibbertThe great divide...📅 Day 23: Memory by Simon DixonShould we be impressed or worried? Mapping 20 pubs near Geolytix HQ from memory📅 Day 24: Circles by Dennis BauszusDemographics at NUTS3 represented as circles📅 Day 25: Heat by Chloe SmithWhere are the 'hottest' places in Leeds City Centres? Find out using Geolytix Small Area Footfall📅 Day 26: Projections by Blair FreebairnProjected growth of urban population on a dymaxion projection📅 Day 27: Micromapping by Louise CrossRooftop geocoding of Retail Universe📅 Day 28: The Blue Planet by Freddie WallaceUK fishing vessels📅 Day 29: Overture by Louise CrossGeolytix POI data using Overture📅 Day 30: The Final Map by Christoph MulligannWrapping up 2024 with a creation from Christoph - a powerful map that combines an important message and AI. This image speaks volumes, conveying more than words ever could.\n\n\n\nWe really enjoy contributing to this as a team and hope you enjoy looking through them. It's a bit of fun, an opportunity to get creative and indulge in one of the things that unites us in the geospatial world, maps.Freddie Wallace: \"November the most wonderful time of the year! Moustaches and Maps ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐\""
    },{
      "title": "World Mental Health Day 2024: It’s time to prioritise mental health in the workplace",
      "date": "Thu Oct 10 2024 08:35:51 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/mental-health-at-geolytix-2024/",
      "excerpt": "The overall objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilise efforts in support of mental health.",
      "content": "Of course World Mental Health Day and Mental Health Awareness Week (in May each year) are brilliant reminders to everyone and an opportunity to really put deserved attention and bring awareness to this important topic but we want to be sure we are continuing that throughout the year. This years World Mental Health Day theme is \"It's time to prioritise mental health in the workplace.\"\n\n\n\nSupporting both physical and mental health within GEOLYTIX has always been important. In 2021 we were delighted to be able to offer Mental Health First Aid training to our colleagues for the first time, and since then others have taken up the opportunity to become qualified to join the MHFA group. It's not enough to tick the training box, it's about living those values every day and ensure it runs through the culture of companies. All our Mental Health First Aiders have embraced their role in raising awareness of mental illnesses and reducing the stigma associated with them.We hear from the MHFA team at GEOLYTIX to hear why they wanted to become qualified and how they ensure that as a company we look to address this incredibly important topic not just today but everyday.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMeet the MHFA team\n\n\n\nBecca\"I wanted to join the mental health first aider team at Geolytix to be an extra point of contact that is available to listen, offer support or information and encourage getting appropriate professional help if needed. The skills I gained through the MHFA training are invaluable both inside and outside of work. With 1 in 4 people in England experiencing poor mental health, it's so important to have people around to offer understanding and support, especially in a workplace where you spend so much of your time.I think it's important to promote mental health awareness at work as it helps build a more inclusive environment where people feel valued not just for their work, but as individuals too. We're very lucky at Geolytix in that employee well-being is a priority and having a MHFA team at hand is one of the great ways to do that!\"\n\n\n\nJosh\"I've been involved in speaking about mental health since university, because both there and in the workplace it's important to have people available to talk to who are more familiar with your situation, on top of existing mental health resources. There's a lot of stigma in particular about men's mental health, as they are reportedly far less likely to communicate their feelings or make use of traditional therapy.A workplace having visible Mental Health First Aiders available helps to help reduce that stigma, and encourages employees to reach out and speak about how they might be feeling, whether that's to us or someone else in their life.\"\n\n\n\nCatherine\"We spend so much of our time in the workplace that having someone around with a \"physical\" first aid or first response qualification has become a no-brainer and I believe mental health first aid should be treated the same way. Just like poor physical health, poor mental health isn't something that we can leave at home or switch off at the office door, and sometimes we can't help it affecting our work.I'm really happy to work in a company that understands this, and facilitates the training of Mental Health First Aiders so that if anyone at Geolytix is experiencing poor mental health, they know they have colleagues who will listen non-judgmentally and can point them to further resources if needed. I completed the MHFA training to more effectively contribute to fostering this culture at Geolytix as I passionately believe there should be no stigma around mental health, but also so that I could be more informed on the best ways to support my colleagues.\"\n\n\n\nDonna\"Mental health to me is so important. In life, personally & professionally but I think it has been something that many working environments haven’t had much focus on.Mental health in the workplace is ridiculously important. Work life can place a lot of stress on people with heavy workloads and deadlines, it can send people into a downward spiral particularly if there are things outside the workplace going on too. It can become overwhelming.When I asked to participate in becoming a mental health first aider, it was met with enthusiasm.It was more important for me as I had struggled with my own mental health disorder and I had made a lot of progress in dealing with how I coped with it. If I could gain some professional knowledge and use my own experiences to assist others who may be struggling I was aware of what an amazing impact this could have on how others combatted it.As a company Geolytix have actively supported and encouraged myself and all the MHFA’s and they have put in some really important measures to make sure that their employees know that they are supported.Because of this, Geolytix has enabled me and other employees to have a safe space to speak about any issues and talk openly about their concerns. It makes an incredible difference and can really change how you conduct yourself day to day. Times are changing, life seems more challenging to lots of people. It is imperative that we actively encourage people to come forward and feel comfortable speaking about these. Not necessarily to provide a solution but even to give people a space to voice their opinions and feelings without judgement.Being a MHFA is an honour and I will continue to encourage promoting the importance of prioritising mental health in the workplace.\"\n\n\n\nWensi\"Mental health can sometimes be put at the backseat. Everyone can be affected by it knowingly or not. It is equally important as the physical health.Work space is a key environment to talk about mental health since for most of us, a large chuck of our waking hours are spent at the work. Being a mental health first aider means that I have a good understanding of it and I am properly trained to not only help myself and others to be able to deal with it when needed.\"\n\n\n\nImogen\"Focus on good health has typically been around physical wellbeing - but what about good mental health? It is only in more recent years that mental health has started to become less of a taboo subject and more talked about, but in my view there is still a very long way to go.Just earlier this year, it was reported that there have been huge increases in the number of people taking time off work as a result of poor mental health, with Mental Health UK highlighting the risk of a \"burnt out-nation\". There are at present more than 1.8 million people on waitlists for mental health treatment and services in the UK - really, the fact is that we are in the midst of a mental health crisis.Having witnessed first-hand the struggles of poor mental health, whether connected to work or otherwise, I want to try and make a difference and raise awareness in any way I can, to support colleagues, family and friends with both their mental and physical wellbeing.Being a mental health first aider has provided me with the education and additional skills to be able to listen and support others in an effective and non-judgmental way. I am very lucky to work for a company where good mental health is continually supported and promoted - so many others are not so fortunate.\"\n\n\n\nThank you Rebecca Mellor, Josh Reynolds, Catherine Duffy, Donna Kirton, Wensi Kirkham and Imogen Francis from everyone at GEOLYTIX. \n\n\n\nYou can have the best team in place but it also needs to be supported from every level in a company so we asked CEO, Blair Freebairn about his thoughts on this topic:\"Good work is so important to people's meaning and so their mental wellness. People also work to support loved ones and the workplace can help nurture and grow entire communities. I am not a fan of the phrase 'work-life balance', it sets work up in opposition to life, as if by working you are trading off your living. This is nonsense, you need good work to live well, and you need a good life to work your best. As CEO of Geolytix I cannot know the squalls or storms the team are dealing with, but I can make sure they all know they are valued and have purpose here, and if there are practical things we can do to calm the weather we do them well.\"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPhoto by Dan Meyers on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Discover GEOLYTIX MAPP: Your Ultimate Global Location Intelligence Solution",
      "date": "Thu Sep 26 2024 11:25:42 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/geolytix-mapp-global-location-intelligence-platform/",
      "excerpt": "Geolytix MAPP helps you assess potential locations with geodata insights, catchment analysis, and easy-to-share reports, all from a user-friendly platform.",
      "content": "Geolytix MAPP, our global Location Intelligence Platform provides you with everything you need for assessing your next location.The intuitive platform (designed and built by Geolytix) lets you visualise your estate on a map and overlay Geolytix geodata layers helping you to make sense of a location (and whether it is a good fit for your next opening), before even visiting it.The tool lets you quickly refine your location search by setting criteria and applying thresholds, conduct catchment analysis almost anywhere in the world, and harness statistical modelling capabilities to help you predict if a site is likely to be successful or not.When you’ve pin-pointed that next location, you can quickly and easily be board approval ready. Extract all the information you need together into a succinct summary report, which is easily shareable via the URL or save it and send it as a PDF. \n\n\n\nKey features of GEOLYTIX MAPP Tailored with your data – access all the information about your estate in one place – MAPP can integrate into your own systems so it's always up to dateGeolytix data stylised and ready to go – gain immediate access to our any or all of our innovative data products, people, places and points, we've got you covered. Unlike some proprietary web GIS, our datasets come with stylisation already appliedCatchment and demographic analysis – generate a drivetime, create a buffer or draw a bespoke catchment to derive an area profile offering insights into potential opportunitiesGap and hot spot analysis – set search criteria thresholds to reveal locations which match your requirementsReporting – Site feasibility and assessment reports to summarise location insights and understand whether it is a viable opportunityTerritory management – draw, edit and ‘snap’ territory boundaries with our easy-to-use catchment editing toolCompare and benchmark – compare multiple locations side by side and benchmark against existing stores to help you understand how they might performImpact assessment – Identify overlaps and monitor cannibalisation\n\n\n\nBenefits of GEOLYTIX MAPPCloud-based – accessed anywhere across the world via desktop or mobile. Perfect when out in the field on site visitsEasy to use – no previous technical experience required (unlike proprietary GIS)Repetitive tasks simplified and streamlined – save time on manual tasksFast to load – our lead developer has a need for speed, model and data loading speed that is. We ensure models and drivetimes run at lightening speedDifferent access roles – these roles can be applied to individual territories or so sensitive info can be restricted\n\n\n\nWhat are GEOLYTIX MAPP users saying?\n\n\"Geolytix MAPP has transformed our property development and operational processes.\"\n\"Carissa Penfold, Head of New Business at COOK\"\n\n\n\n\n\"As we rapidly scale our hybrid working solutions globally, we have partnered with Geolytix to strategically plan our network expansion and growth.\"\n\"Daniella Yacoubian, Corporate Development at IWG\"\n\n\n\n\n\"Working with Geolytix has provided us with tangible evidence and a greater understanding of our key customer groups as well as pinpointing priority locations for strategic expansion. \"\n\"Simon Owers, American Golf CFO\"\n\n\n\n\n\"Wow! Messing around with MAPP for the last hour or so... really really cool.\"\n\"Happy Geolytix Customer\"\n\n\n\n\n\nSupport your gut feel, start your data informed approach to location planning today by requesting a free demo or trial. Contact us at info@geolytix.com."
    },{
      "title": "GEOLYTIX Named a Finalist in The 2024 A.I. Awards",
      "date": "Wed Sep 18 2024 08:59:44 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/geolytix-finalist-a-i-awards-2024/",
      "excerpt": "International Cloud Artificial Intelligence Awards Program Announces its Finalists. Geolytix are a finalist in the A.I. Implementation of the Year.",
      "content": "17 September 2024 - GEOLYTIX has been named a finalist in The 2024 A.I. Awards program, in the AI Implementation of the Year category.  \n\n\n\nA new awards program launched earlier this year by established cloud computing awards body The Cloud Awards, The A.I. Awards recognizes and rewards excellence and innovation in the use or development of cloud artificial intelligence technologies, and machine learning.CEO of The Cloud Awards, James Williams, said: “We’re excited to reveal the finalists of the inaugural A.I. Awards. The program spotlights the incredible innovations taking place in the world of cloud AI all over the globe, and GEOLYTIX fully deserves its place amongst this year’s outstanding finalists.“Across the whole program these finalists demonstrate that ingenious AI-driven solutions can emerge from anywhere, from organizations of any size, driving positive change in almost any industry you can think of. We can’t wait to see who the judging panel selects as the winners, and wish all of our finalists luck in the final round of assessment.”\n\n\n\nSam Taylor, New Product Director at GEOLYTIX said:“We are delighted to have been selected as a finalist in the A.I. implementation of the Year category at The 2024 A.I. Awards. This achievement reflects our commitment to create the best outcomes for our clients through understanding and adopting new and emerging technologies, including A.I. tools and techniques. We are proud to be in the running for these awards and look forward to the final results.”\n\n\n\nThe program will now begin its final round of judging – resulting in a winner in each category being selected from this group of finalists. A.I. Awards winners will be announced on Tuesday 8 October 2024.The full cast of finalists across all categories can be viewed here: https://www.cloud-awards.com/2024-ai-awards-finalists"
    },{
      "title": "GEOLYTIX Shortlisted in The 2024 A.I. Awards",
      "date": "Tue Aug 20 2024 10:20:21 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/geolytix-shortlisted-a-i-awards-2024/",
      "excerpt": "International Cloud Artificial Intelligence Awards Program Announces its Shortlist. Geolytix are amongst them and are up for three categories.",
      "content": "20 August 2024 – GEOLYTIX has been shortlisted in The 2024 A.I. Awards program in the categories:\nBest A.I. Platform\nA.I. Implementation of the Year\nBest Use of A.I. in Retail and eCommerce\n\n\n\n\n\nA new awards program launched earlier this year by established cloud computing awards body The Cloud Awards. The A.I. Awards recognizes and rewards excellence and innovation in the use or development of cloud artificial intelligence technologies, and machine learning.The program contains a wide range of categories. Some focusing on specific industry verticals such as healthcare, finance, and manufacturing, others on the use of AI to drive process improvements such as personalization or automation. Overall excellence in AI practice is also recognized through awards such as ‘AI Solution of the Year’ and ‘Most Innovative AI Technology’. The program received entries from organizations of all sizes worldwide, including North America, across Europe, the Middle East, and APAC.CEO of The Cloud Awards, James Williams, said: “We’re thrilled to announce the shortlist of the inaugural A.I. Awards. The program gives a dedicated platform for organizations to highlight the exciting work that is being carried out in the world of cloud AI, and those who have been shortlisted represent the very best in this field, worldwide.The shortlist demonstrates that innovation is being driven by established household names to bold new startups, and everything in between. Our judges have an enviable task in determining which of these outstanding organizations deserve to be taken forward to the next stage of this year’s program. Good luck to all our shortlistees!”To view the full shortlist, please visit: https://www.cloud-awards.com/2024-ai-awards-shortlist\n\n\n\nSam Taylor, New Product Director at GEOLYTIX said: “We are delighted to have been shortlisted in three categories; Best A.I. Platform, A.I. implementation of the Year & Best Use of A.I. in Retail and eCommerce at The 2024 A.I. Awards. This achievement reflects our commitment to create the best outcomes for our clients through understanding and adopting new and emerging technologies, including A.I. tools and techniques. We are proud to be in the running for these awards and look forward to the final results.”"
    },{
      "title": "Oxford Street Reinvented",
      "date": "Wed Aug 14 2024 11:46:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/oxford-street-reinvented/",
      "excerpt": "Ben recently took to Oxford Street to ask the question \"can it make sense to have 4 stores in the same vicinity, no matter how strong that Retail Place is?\"",
      "content": "Two important disclosures at the outset: 1) I don’t like shopping and 2) Geolytix don’t currently work with Uniqlo (but if you’re reading, we’d love to…)The reason I mention #1 is that whilst I’m often in and around shops for work, it’s quite rare to just have a wander (which is what I did yesterday – prompted by a summer holiday ‘I’m bored’ moment from the youngest Purple and a visit to the Apple Store on Regent St to try on the amazing Vision Pro goggles – if you’re at a loose end and don’t mind heights, I’d highly recommend it).But when you have a wander, you see obvious things that you maybe miss when you’re on a more specific mission. For me, yesterday, it was just how much the Oxford Street retail scene has changed.Looking at the TFL station data from their fabulous open dashboard, the total taps across Oxford Circus, Tottenham Court Road and Bond Street stations are pretty much the same as they were in June 2019 – within half a percent of each other w/c 16 June, in fact.But that headline masks a massive shift between stations – back in 2019, Oxford Circus accounted for 50% of the taps, TCR 26%, and Bond St 24%. Fast forward 5 years and the Elizabeth Line, and TCR now leads the way with 40% of taps, Oxford Circus down at 34%, and Bond St pretty steady at 26%.The difference that shift has had on the retail gravity and composition has been significant. In the years since covid and as the Elizabeth Line has got up and running, there was a short period where the doom-laden question was ‘why are there so many American Candy stores around Oxford Street’? On Sunday, the 2024 version of that question felt much more positive: ‘why are there are so many Uniqlo stores around Oxford Street’.Which brings me to #2 and a quick Uniqlo case study / love letter after the opening of their latest store earlier this year as part of the One Oxford Street development, directly above Tottenham Court Road station. This store represents their 3rd store on Oxford Street, in addition to the one on Regent Street. The location planner in me immediately asked, can it make sense to have 4 stores in the same vicinity, no matter how strong that Retail Place is? And the answer is, it depends on how much overlap there is between those locations.This gave me a good excuse to play with our Interaction Surfaces again – and we can see from the maps below that the 4 store strategy gives Uniqlo a really nice distribution with relatively low overlap between locations, despite their proximity to one another.One Oxford St interaction with Oxford St and Regent St storesUniqlo 170 Oxford St interaction with Oxford St stores and Regent StUniqlo 311 Oxford St interaction with Oxford St stores and Regent StUniqlo Regent St interaction with Oxford St stores\n\n\n\nSo, overall conclusions: 1) Oxford Street feels healthier and better balanced than it has for a long time; 2) Uniqlo have executed a great location strategy 3) If Uniqlo (or anyone else) wants to have a chat about Interaction Surfaces or anything else to help keep growing successfully, we’d love to talk… just drop me a note: ben.purple@geolytix.com\n\n\n\nPhoto by Jonathan Chng on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Interaction Surfaces explained: Why Context is Everything",
      "date": "Fri May 31 2024 15:36:04 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/interaction-surfaces-mobility-data-in-context/",
      "excerpt": "Christoph Mülligann, Chief Innovator at Geolytix, takes us behind the curtain of developing Interaction Surfaces and gives us his unique take on making sense of mobile data.",
      "content": "As one says* \n\n\"Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana.\"\n\n\n\n\n\nThe problem is, we blinked.And now we’re left wondering how the arrow found its target.And how the eating habits of certain holometabolans found their way into this blog.Whether you are analysing large amounts of ping data from mobile devices or the connection between a blog’s leading quote and its title, context matters. When it comes to Interaction Surfaces, without context-awareness in fact we would not have a product. Here is why:Mobile data is a sample of real-world movements. But it is not only a sample in the sense that devices represent a subset of the general population. On the individual device-level, the discrete data points - or, as we call them, “pings” - are also a sample of a continuous path through space-time. Both are a necessary requirement for the safe consumption of such sensitive data but equally present a challenge for the interpretability of the data on an aggregate level. When developing interaction surfaces, we embraced the opportunities presented by the latent contextual information in the raw data instead of “aggregate first, worry later”. The following are some highlights from our methodology where this approach was critical.\n\n\n\nFrom Fuzz to FocusLet’s start with locations. In a mobility data set, they are reported at different granularity depending on the data capture method. That granularity is sufficiently high for many aggregate use cases. It may produce some ambiguity, however, for speed estimates, which are essential to separating pedestrian from vehicular devices and make sure we are always looking at the audience most relevant to our clients’ use case. By comparing slowest and fastest scenarios given a particular granularity, we can determine whether devices are in walking mode or not with relative certainty. Think of it as a vote - if both scenarios agree on the discrete outcome, numerical fuzziness is irrelevant. Where the vote is split, we can make use of the trajectory context to pick the most likely classification. As a consequence, our devices don’t flicker between walking and driving. We preserve valuable co-occurrence information of walking locations and our interaction surfaces are all the better for it.At this stage we have only looked at a device location in the context of the device’s entire trajectory. For the final two points, it’s all about a device’s movement in the context of every device’s movement - call it “swarm intelligence”. (Yes, I have finally justified the fruit flies and the bananas - thank you for bearing with me)\n\n\n\nBeam me up, ScottyUnfortunately, teleportation is not a thing (yet). That means in the real world, in order to get somewhere, people need to go through somewhere else first - regardless of the scale at which you define a place. But, due to its discrete nature, even the densest ping data set won’t record how devices enter or leave a place at any spatial resolution.By quantifying what that leakage is at the fixed resolution we deem most valuable to report daily pedestrian interactions on, we can manufacture a dataset where everyone - no matter how often they ping - comes from and goes to somewhere (we do exclude proper dwell locations like home, work, school, etc. for privacy reasons). It makes sure the values you see in our interaction surfaces are not only meaningful relative to each other but can be interpreted as actual probabilities.\n\n\n\nHere, There and EverywhereSo we have identified which devices are pedestrians. We have made sure they don’t just zap around. We have processed our co-occurrence probabilities. But we are still looking at each pair of locations separately. What a waste! We might not know the likelihood of someone going from A to C. But we do know the likelihood of someone going from A to B and the likelihood of someone going from B to C. Cascading probabilities allows us to enrich the interaction surfaces data and give you more insights for a single location. I would not recommend trying this at home though and in fact I am contractually obliged to mention there is still a lot of AI and ML involved in this process.\n\n\n\nI hope you enjoy the product 😄Author: Christoph Mülligann, Chief Innovator at Geolytix*authorship contested\n\n\n\nAll artwork by Google Gemini"
    },{
      "title": "Interaction Surfaces: How to maximise store density and minimise overlap",
      "date": "Wed May 29 2024 10:51:37 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/interaction-surfaces-to-maximise-opportunity/",
      "excerpt": "If it was possible to maintain 3 successful stores in one area instead of 2, wouldn’t you want to know?",
      "content": "Interaction Surfaces, the new tool available in our online platform MAPP, gives you insights into how people move around busy cities. It uses millions of mobile location data points to predict pedestrian flow in urban areas, taking the guesswork out of new site locations and impacts assessment.But what does that mean for you? This tool is designed for location insight and property teams that are responsible for dense networks in busy urban areas. Using the probability of interaction you can see the likelihood of overlap between: your stores, your competitors, and strategic POIs like transport hubs or attractions. If you have a successful site in a busy location and a feeling there is more demand to provide for, knowing the likely flow of pedestrians could allow you to expand into previously unimaginable locations, backed up by robust data.\n\n\n\nIn this real example, Store A is a location nestled into an already dense network in a busy area of London. How have they pulled it off?Reviewing our Interaction Surface of the new location in MAPP, we can see that the likelihood of interaction drops off sufficiently to allow all three to operate in harmony.If the retailer had instead chosen Bishopsgate as a location, the interaction with their Store B becomes much higher and increases impact on the current store. If the site had been further south on Old Broad St there would’ve been the same problem at Store C.An excellent example of dense network store planning, backed up by Geolytix Interaction Surfaces.\n\n\n\nWe’re always delighted to give you a demo of our products and talk to you about any specific needs you might have, please get in touch at info@geolytix.com.\n\n\n\nTitle Image: Photo by Anna Dziubinska on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Interaction Surfaces: Illustrate The Complexity Of The City",
      "date": "Tue May 28 2024 15:50:39 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/interaction-surfaces-illustrate-complexity/",
      "excerpt": "Our new MAPP tool, Interaction Surfaces, lets you interrogate complex pedestrian interactions in urban areas and start to see the wood for the trees.",
      "content": "Interaction Surfaces are the latest product in our suite of mobility data tools in GEOLYTIX MAPP. The tool is fast and responsive and lets you see clearly the pedestrian flows in urban areas, with compelling visualisation and quantifiable labels.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn MAPP, switch on the Interaction Surface layer and activate the tool to see the Availability Area. This orange surface represents the area that we have defined as giving a robust result based on the sufficient quantity of data and to adhere to strict privacy thresholds. The gaps in the availability area are only indicative of the tools activation points, and don't limit the returned interaction surface.The vibrant visualisation demonstrates clearly the paths of most probable pedestrian flow, and the labels give quantifiable values to help you keep track of impacts of your new site selections. The returned surfaces are smooth and based on robust underlying data, with minimal gaps. The theming is set to sharply represent areas of significantly high probability in a deep fuchsia (over 45% as a rule of thumb), becoming lighter as that probability reduces, but still displaying all low probable interactions, based on two years of movement data. This gives a full and rich picture of sometimes complex street networks in busy areas, and are all the better when they show you exactly what you expected from the ground.Let your curiosity run unencumbered by simply reactivating the tool and panning around the map to rerun results for nearby comparisons as your instincts guide you. The speed of our data API and the responsiveness of the MAPP system makes the tool a pleasure to use. Maximise your results by making use of all of the other datasets available to deploy in MAPP including footfall data, store information, and catchment analysis.We’d be delighted to give you a demo of our mobility products and talk to you about any specific needs you might have, please get in touch at info@geolytix.com."
    },{
      "title": "GEOLYTIX MAPP wins Innovation of the Year at the British Data Awards 2024",
      "date": "Thu May 09 2024 10:30:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/british-data-awards-2024-winners/",
      "excerpt": "We are thrilled to win Innovation of the Year for GEOLYTIX MAPP and the British Data Awards 2024.",
      "content": "Absolutely delighted to be awarded Innovation of the Year at the British Data Awards presented by Exponentia.ai. Jasmin Fitzpatrick, Dennis Bauszus & Simon Leech members of our awesome GEOLYTIX MAPP team picked up the award last night. Well done to the whole team!MAPP started out seven years ago when we had tested various online mapping softwares, many of us as an end user, and we knew what frustrated us and how we could build it better. So we did, driven by our experienced developer Dennis. It’s pretty unbelievable to think what has been achieved by such a modest but mighty team. In 2023 we had over twenty-five thousand logins to MAPP from over 850 users across 71 customers in 96 countries, and counting. \n\n\n\n\nA chief developer officer called MAPP \"Utterly sensational.\"\n\n\nA new space manager said “This has simply changed our lives.”\n\n\n\n\n\nHappy clients is our priority and make it all worthwhile.This year the ceremony took place at the iconic Grand Hall of the Grand Connaught Rooms in London and was hosted by the comedian Lucy Porter.The British Data Awards is an annual quest that discovers and celebrates the UK’s data success stories. The awards also help to showcase the organisations and people that are truly passionate about data."
    },{
      "title": "Interaction Surfaces: Understand common pedestrian movement patterns for better site location",
      "date": "Wed May 08 2024 10:34:26 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/interaction-surfaces-better-site-location/",
      "excerpt": "Whether its finding new opportunities or analysing impacts of new store openings (your own or a competitors), GEOLYTIX Interaction Surfaces can help. Find out more.",
      "content": "Here at Geolytix we’ve been working hard behind the scenes on our next exciting new product, which we’re calling ‘Interaction Surfaces’.We’ve created a simple but powerful tool, based on mobile phone data, that allows the next level of insight into pedestrian movement patterns and trends. \n\n\n\nWhat’s the point?We often get asked questions about where our clients’ potential customers are when they’re not in their stores. Even with loyalty card data it’s hard to understand whether customers also visit competing stores. Analysing customer movement trends helps to quantify some of these previously hidden patterns, and Interaction Surfaces in GEOLYTIX MAPP puts this data at your fingertips.Finding new opportunitiesUsing a measure of interaction, you can identify where in an urban area there are gaps in your store network coverage - areas where customers are who aren’t likely to have passed one of your existing outlets already.Aggregated interaction map of a store network in central LondonIn the example above, despite a dense store network in central London, there are some surprising ‘white spots’ where pedestrian interaction is lower than average - even very close by to existing stores.Impact analysisHow much will a new store opening - be it a competitor or one of your own - affect sales of your existing outlets? By knowing that 20% of pedestrians will walk past their site and your outlet in the same day, you can start to assess the likely value of any impact.Interaction surfaces in MAPP. 10% of pedestrians in the highlighted hexagon also visit Oxford Circus on the same day\n\n\n\nHow does it work? (AKA the clever bit)After removing vehicular mobility ‘pings’, we aggregate multiple years’ of mobility data to find patterns of ‘co-occurrence’ between different locations, represented by H3 hexes. We report these co-occurrences in urban areas, using 50m hexes.To ensure that the data is showing general trends, we ensure that any patterns which we only see once or twice are discounted, and that trips are being made by a minimum number of devices, removing those that aren’t.We take a rigorous approach to privacy, so in addition to the above we have also made sure that only locations which have a relatively high level of interaction can be accessed, home locations are excluded, and we don’t report around sensitive points of interest.\n\n\n\nWhat next?As we’ve begun to use this data, we’ve found that the product can be really powerful as a supply side indicator when used in conjunction with our Small Area Footfall dataset, which can proxy demand. We are looking to improve the integration between the two in MAPP.We’re also aware that this product works really well for pedestrians in urban areas, but the same questions remain for customers in vehicles, and across larger distances. We’re developing a cross-shopping product that will help to answer these questions, based on our popular Retail Places definitions.We’d be delighted to give you a demo of our mobility products and talk to you about any specific needs you might have, please get in touch at info@geolytix.com."
    },{
      "title": "We’re a British Data Awards 2024 Finalist",
      "date": "Wed Mar 20 2024 11:13:46 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/british-data-awards-2024-finalist/",
      "excerpt": "Up against tough competition from 320 other entries we are delighted to be announced finalists for Innovation of the Year and BI Solution of the Year at the British Data Awards 2024 for GEOLYTIX MAPP.",
      "content": "We’re delighted to announce that we’ve been named a Finalist in the British Data Awards 2024. Innovation of the Year and BI Solution of the Year for GEOLYTIX MAPP.\n\n\n\nThe British Data Awards is an annual quest to discover and celebrate the UK’s data success stories. Organisations taking part this year range from FTSE 100 heavyweights, public sector pioneers, technology unicorns, fast-growing scale-ups, essential Not-For-Profits, and everything in between.A record 321 entries were received for the fourth edition of the British Data Awards which means that competition to be named a Finalist proved to be particularly tough, so we’re especially pleased to be announced as a Finalist.Jason Johnson, Co-Founder of Predatech and British Data Awards judge said: “With so many excellent entries received this year, being named a Finalist in the British Data Awards 2024 really is a great achievement. Our Finalist also remind us of the rich vein of innovation that runs throughout the United Kingdom, and I can’t wait to celebrate all our Finalists in May.”\n\n\n\n\"I am thrilled to hear that Geolytix MAPP is a finalist for the award of Innovation of the Year and BI Solution of the Year. The team have worked exceptionally hard over the last year and the product really has gone from strength to strength. I am amazed sometimes at just how much a team our size can achieve, and being a finalist at the British Data Awards is fully deserved.\" - Jasmin Fitzpatrick, Head of Product (MAPP)\n\n\n\nThe British Data Awards 2024 will announce Winners across some 24 categories and several Highly Commended awards will also be presented. This year the ‘Data Transformation of the Year’ category received the most entries.Other categories include ‘Data Leader of the Year’ and ‘Technology Company of the Year’, while new categories including ‘Data Team of the Year’ and ‘Data Management Solution of the Year’ were introduced to help showcase and celebrate the achievements of a diverse range of organisations and people.\n\n\n\nThe British Data Awards 2024 all-star judging panel includes:Neil Carden: President, EMEA at BlendDr Sophie Carr: Founder at Bays ConsultingCaroline Carruthers: CEO at Carruthers and JacksonDr Roxane Heaton: Chief Information Officer at Macmillan Cancer SupportRob Holtom: Executive Director, Digital, Data & Tech at the Information Commissioner’s OfficeDr Johanna Hutchinson: Chief Data Officer at BAE SystemsJason Johnson: Co-Founder at PredatechKinnari Ladha: Chief Data Officer at Merlin EntertainmentsSami Rahman: Director of Data at HypebeastNiresh Rajah: Group Chief Data Officer at Danske BankAdam Ryan: Chief Data Officer at CalligoRomit Sen: Head of Data Science at British AirwaysDr Jo Watts: CEO & Founder at Effini\n\n\n\nFinalists will be celebrated, and Winners will be announced, at an awards ceremony taking place on the 8th of May at the iconic Great Hall of the Grand Connaught Rooms in London."
    },{
      "title": "DOOH Retail : Geolytix et in-Store Media partenariat",
      "date": "Sat Feb 17 2024 08:06:30 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/dooh-retail-geolytix-et-in-store-media-partenariat/",
      "excerpt": "Depuis janvier 2023, in-Store Media fait confiance à Geolytix pour la qualification des zones de chalandises des galeries commerciales et hypermarchés qu’il équipe en DOOH (affichage digital) afin d’améliorer le ciblage et la performance de ses campagnes.",
      "content": "in-Store Media, leader du DOOH Retail avec plus de 3300 écrans disponibles dans plus de 600 points de ventes (hypermarchés et galeries commerciales) dont E.Leclerc partenaire historique et le plus important s’associe à Geolityx. Grâce au savoir-faire du spécialiste en géomarketing, l’expert du Retail Media augmente sa capacité de qualification d’audience. Fort d’une audience hebdomadaire de 19 millions de shoppers à travers la France en 2023, ce partenariat a pour objectif de donner plus de granularité aux ciblages des audiences lors de la mise en place des campagnes DOOH dans les Centres Commerciaux auprès des marques et des agences Media. Geolytix, créé en 2011 à Londres et présent en France depuis 2022, accompagne les retailers et les enseignes de restaurations dans la compréhension de leurs performances locales et leurs potentiels sur l’ensemble des canaux de vente. Dans un futur proche sans cookies, ce nouveau partenariat vient renforcer l’approche data centric de l’offre DOOH Retail d’in-Store Media auprès des marques et des agences media, toujours soucieuses de cibler correctement les shoppers, dans un contexte affinitaire tel que celui de l’acte d’achat. \n\n\n\nNicolas Benoit, Directeur Général France in-Store Media témoigne : “Nous sommes ravis de ce partenariat avec Geolityx. Leur expertise va jouer un rôle crucial dans la mise en œuvre de notre stratégie omnicanale visant à consolider notre position d’expert du Retail Media sur le marché tout en améliorant l'expérience client.” “Nous sommes ravis de collaborer avec In-Store Media en mettant notre expertise Retail au service d’un media efficace comme le DOOH.” indique Stéphane MARTIS, Directeur France & Western Europe chez GEOLYTIX. “Nous avons permis à in-Store Media France de maximiser l’adéquation entre les annonceurs et les audiences à l’aide de nos Data et via une modélisation des zones de chalandise des Malls. De nombreux indicateurs sociodémographiques sur la clientèle estimée des Malls ont été agrégés afin de cibler et de personnaliser les lieux d’activation des campagnes via des données objectives et à jour sur l’ensemble des points de contacts.”  \n\n\n\nA PROPOS D’IN-STORE MEDIA:in-Store Media est un expert du Retail Media, dont la mission est de transformer l’univers Retail en media stratégique et impactant pour les marques. in-Store Media s’appuie sur 25 années d’expertise pour concevoir, déployer et commercialiser différentes solutions media omnicanales dans 6000 points de vente avec 70 enseignes partenaires en Europe, Asie et Amérique. En France, in-Store Media commercialise 3300 écrans dans 670 Centres Commerciaux et Hypermarchés, notamment des enseignes E.Leclerc et Géant Casino, pour toucher 18,8 millions de shoppers par semaine.Website: https://in-storemedia.fr/Contact presse: Agence OXYGEN, Capucine Wacogne, 06 59 67 65 92, capucine@oxygen-rp.com \n\n\n\nA PROPOS DE GEOLYTIX: Geolytix est un expert de la Data et de la modélisation géographique qui accompagne les Retailers dans la compréhension de la performance de leurs réseaux et la connaissance des consommateurs via des données, des modèles et des outils. Depuis sa création en 2011, Geolytix a aidé ses clients dans leurs stratégies réseaux, de la compréhension locale à la mise en place de réseau idéal. Ses solutions et ses Data sont utilisées au quotidien dans plus de 80 pays. Geolytix a intégré le Top100 Global Geospatial 2023, la liste des acteurs majeurs du secteur éditée par un comité d’experts de Geoawesomeness. Website: https://geolytix.fr/ Geolytix Contact: Stéphane MARTIS, 06 27 71 74 13, stephane.martis@geolytix.com\n\n\n\nPhoto by Neel Tailor on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "DOOH Retail: Geolytix and in-Store Media partnership",
      "date": "Sat Feb 17 2024 07:52:47 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/dooh-retail-partnership-geolytix-in-store-media/",
      "excerpt": "Since January 2023, in-Store Media has trusted Geolytix to qualify the catchment areas of shopping malls and hypermarkets that it equips with DOOH (digital display) in order to improve the targeting and performance of its campaigns.",
      "content": "in-Store Media, leader in DOOH Retail with more than 3,300 screens available in more than 600 points of sale (hypermarkets and shopping malls) of which E.Leclerc, a historic and most important partner, is joining forces with Geolytix. Thanks to the know-how of the geomarketing specialist, the Retail Media expert increases his audience qualification capacity.With a weekly audience of 19 million shoppers across France in 2023, this partnership aims to give more granularity to audience targeting when implementing DOOH campaigns in Shopping Centres with brands and customers Media agencies.Geolytix, created in 2011 in London and present in France since 2022, supports retailers and restaurant brands in understanding their local performance and their potential across all sales channels.This new partnership strengthens the data-centric approach of in-Store Media's DOOH Retail offering with brands and media agencies, which will be even more important in the near future without cookies. Enabling the ability to correctly target shoppers, in an affinity context such as than that of the act of purchase.\n\n\n\nNicolas Benoit, CEO France in-Store Media says: “We are delighted with this partnership with Geolytix. Their expertise will play a crucial role in the implementation of our omnichannel strategy aimed at consolidating our position as a Retail Media expert on the market while improving the customer experience.”“We are delighted to collaborate with In-Store Media by putting our Retail expertise at the service of an effective media like DOOH.” says Stéphane MARTIS, Director France & Western Europe GEOLYTIX. “We have enabled in-Store Media France to maximize the match between advertisers and audiences using our Data and via modeling of the catchment areas of Malls. Numerous socio-demographic indicators on the estimated clientele of Malls have been aggregated in order to target and personalize the locations of campaign activation via objective and up-to-date data on all contact points.”\n\n\n\nABOUT IN-STORE MEDIA:in-Store Media is a Retail Media expert, whose mission is to transform the Retail universe into strategic and impactful media for brands. in-Store Media draws on 25 years of expertise to design, deploy and market various omnichannel media solutions in 6,000 points of sale with 70 partner brands in Europe, Asia and America. In France, in-Store Media markets 3,300 screens in 670 shopping centres and hypermarkets, notably E.Leclerc and Géant Casino, to reach 18.8 million shoppers per week.Website: https://in-storemedia.fr/in-store Media France Press Contact: Agence OXYGEN, Capucine Wacogne, 06 59 67 65 92, capucine@oxygen-rp.com\n\n\n\nABOUT GEOLYTIX:Geolytix are experts in data and geographic modelling who support retailers in understanding the performance of their networks and understand consumers through data, models and tools. Since its creation in 2011, Geolytix has helped clients with their network strategies, from local understanding to the implementation of the ideal network. The solutions and data are used on a daily basis in more than 100 countries. In 2023 Geolytix was recognized in the Top100 Global Geospatial companies, this lists major players in the sector published by a committee of experts from Geoawesomeness.Website: https://geolytix.fr/Geolytix Contact: Stéphane MARTIS, 06 27 71 74 13, stephane.martis@geolytix.com\n\n\n\nPhoto by Neel Tailor on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "GEOLYTIX and the 30 Day Map Challenge 2023",
      "date": "Fri Dec 01 2023 18:32:13 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/30-day-map-challenge-2023/",
      "excerpt": "Daily social mapping project happening every November: https://30daymapchallenge.com/. This is the second year we have joined this as a team, see all our maps here.",
      "content": "The team created maps based around different daily themes for a social mapping project happening every November. Always great to see what ideas our team and others come up with for the various topics each day.📅 Day 1: Points by Louise CrossBiggest Supermarket Retail Chains In IrelandWe kicked off the month with not only a map but some open data! You can download the data behind this map here.📅 Day 2: Lines by Louise CrossLou chose her favourite lines to walk & cycle in the Peak District, any excuse to roll our National Parks data set👣 Edale Skyline, a beautiful and challenging 20 mile route along the hills and ridges above Edale village.🚲 Monsal Trail, the route follows the former Manchester to London Midland Railway line which closed in the late 1960s. This is an 8.5 mile long traffic-free route which is enjoyed by walkers, runners, cyclists, wheelchair users and horse riders.📅 Day 3: Polygons by Khrishina MistryMr Olympia competitors and winners by country since 1965Mr Olympia is the world's top bodybuilding competition, where the champion is crowned based on having the best overall physique - this is a combination of their conditioning, muscularity, posing, size, symmetry and stage presentation. Arnold Schwarznegger is regarded as one of the greatest bodybuilders of all time, and brought the sport to the masses after winning the Mr Olympia title 7 times between 1970-1980.The 2023 competition was held at the start of November and to commemorate this, Khrish's map shows where the previous competitors in the men's open class were from (there are several other classes for both men and women). Whilst there have been 58 Mr Olympia competitions since the first in 1965, the open class winners have so far only come from 8 countries.\n\n\n\n📅 Day 4: A bad map by Dennis BauszusSales/Population of Michael Jackson BAD (album)Michael Jackson's Bad album was released in 1987, selling over 35 million copies worldwide. Despite selling over 1 million copies in Brazil the size of the population dilutes the sales density. USA, UK, Germany, France, Japan and Italy also each contributed over a million units sold.🎶 UK comes out top with sales per population, followed by USA, Austria, Ireland, France, Germany, Netherlands & New Zealand.A controversial character but the \"King of Pop's\" music broke numerous records globally allowing Dennis to create this Bad map.\n\n\n\n📅 Day 5: Analog Map by Brendon EdwardsAnalog by AIHas Brendon cheated or been clever with this map? Using Dall-E-3 to 'generate a photorealistic cartographic depiction of the UK, with each region represented by intricately designed pocket watches. Utilise a DSLR camera with a 35mm lens at a 45-degree angle, ensuring a uniform lighting setup with a softbox light to capture the refined details and create a visually engaging and technically nuanced map.' Can't fight the future, we think it looks great!\n\n\n\n📅 Day 5: Analog Map by Team LeedsJust in case our other submission was a bit controversial for non-digital, we have another to balance it out. The brilliant Leeds team recently jazzed up our office with a giant world map sticker. The fun bit, it came in 2 parts which we needed to line up. It took a team effort, thanks Jessica Chapman, Aimee Thomason, Rebecca Mellor, Max Laing & Freddie Wallace, it looks brilliant. Cheered on and documented by chief photographers Wensi Kirkham & Louise Cross.Markers have also been added for all of our offices across the world:UK (London & Leeds), South Africa, France, Poland, Italy, China, Japan and Australia. But did they manage to locate the cities without consulting a map?\n\n\n\n📅 Day 6: Asia by Samantha Colebatch HodkinsonAsian leaders in provision of public Electric Vehicle charging pointsSamantha mapped out provision of public Electric Vehicle charging points per 100,000 people with data sourced from International Energy Agency.🔌South Korea are leading the way in Asia.\n\n\n\n📅 Day 7: Navigation by Alessandro De MartinoRoutes from anonymised home locations to London banks (using mobility data)Alessandro's map for today routes anonymised home locations using third party mobility data to open banks and building societies in the region of London.⬇️ You can read more and download the bank & building society locations for the full UK in the comments below. We are also testing our Locate powered by GEOLYTIX MAPP instance where you can navigate yourself to your nearest branch operator, give it a go and let us know your feedback.\n\n\n\n📅 Day 8: Africa by Sonia TraoreNumber of living languages in Africa by country, as of 2022Sonia mapped the number of living languages in Africa (as of 2022) by country. Thousands of languages are spoken across Africa. With a population of over 210 million people, Nigeria has 520 living indigenous languages.Sonia: \"The idea came from a book I’ve read recently called 'Africa is not a country' which tries to break stereotypes of modern Africa and show the diversity of the continent.\"\n\n\n\n📅 Day 9: Hexagons by Stéphane MartisThe team see hexes everywhere... Well it's not a secret that our team love a hexagon, they see them everywhere 👀. This map idea stemmed from someone saying France is basically a hexagon so there was only one man for the job... Stéphane.Paris are hosting the 2024 Summer Olympics & Paralympics, but there are venues all across France, 9 venues within Paris suburbs and 9 outside the Paris region.This then triggered the idea of what if all countries were hexagons, so in this map you can see the world if all countries were hexes, scaled to the size of the country.But in all seriousness hexagons are a brilliant shape to display certain data, Uber's H3 grid is widely used across the geospatial industry.⬡ Datasets at H3 grids enable us to map administrative geography data to consistent hex level.⬡ H3 grids naturally aggregate upwards for summary statistics at larger geographies and downward to near point level for POI.⬡ Datasets created at hex level across all markets allows for consistency of data and analysis.The next two maps show some of our mobility data based data sets which we produce at H3, our International Busyness Index and our UK Small Area Footfall for over 15,000 Retail Places.\n\n\n\n📅 Day 10: North America by Imogen FrancisUrban Areas across the USA > Urban Areas in New York > Retail Places in NYCImogen mapped our Urban Area boundaries of which we have over 1,200 across the USA. Within our New York urban area we have 17 sub areas. Overlayed on top of those are our Retail Place boundaries and locations of some major retail brands. An ideal starter pack for all those location planning based decisions.💡Our global urban areas have been created to define the boundaries of all towns and cities with population thresholds specific to each country. We define the threshold using local knowledge as well as the overall size of the country, settlement patterns, and its affluence. The boundaries are defined by the extent of heavily populated areas, so provide a more accurate extent of towns than traditionally used administrative geographies.💡Our Retail Places have existed for the UK for over 10 years, we find them invaluable for location planning so over the last 5 years we have created them (and continue to) for many other countries. Retail Places identify opportunity locations for expansion, optimisation and consolidation of stores and assets. Profiling, segmenting and scoring supports finding optimum locations and understanding activity.\n\n\n\n📅 Day 11: Retro by Chloe SmithEngland's 50 Highest Rated Antique Stores (according to Trip Advisor)A blast from the past thanks to Chloe who mapped England's 50 highest rated antique stores according to Tripadvisor.\n\n\n\n📅 Day 12: South America by Lizzie Dawson% of South American Coffee Exports with Key Coffee Producing HotspotsLizzie mapped the key coffee producing hotspots in South America, Brazil coming out top by far!\n\n\n\n📅 Day 13: Choropleth by Will Johnson\"Hold your run son!\" - A visualisation of the number of offsides per 90 minutes across Europe's premier men's football divisions in the 22/23 season.Which nation succumbs most to the offside trap? - Is it a testament to the audacity of youthful forwards or a tribute to well-drilled defensive structures? While this map offers a tidy European overview, it merely hints at the intricate chess game on the field. In the meantime, stay vigilant and keep your eyes peeled for the fluttering flag - Will Johnson\n\n\n\n📅 Day 14: Europe by Jessica Ebner-StattEurovision Jury Votes 2016-2023: the UK's Relationships with Other CountriesIt's no secret we have a few Eurovision fans within the team, one of our latest recruits joins them. 🎤 We think Jess has perfectly captured the voting relationships felt by the UK.\n\n\n\n📅 Day 15: OpenStreetMap by Stéphane MartisTravel through space and time with OSM dataStéphane used OSM to locate The Diomede Islands, ever heard of them? The place where time zones start and end. Stephane found the 2 closest OSM points which although they are only a few kilometres apart there is actually 21 hours between them.Nicknamed Tomorrow Island (Big Diomede on the left which is part of Russia) has the most easterly OSM point as a tourist point, 'Easternmost point of Eurasia'. Cleverly nicknamed Yesterday Island (Little Diomede on the right which is part of the US) most westerly point is a Laundrette. Couldn't resist looking at the OSM polys too and you get grassland and a Heliport.OSM is a fantastic resource! We are very grateful for it and everyone who contributes - thank you. So many amazing things to be shared about it. \n\n\n\n📅 Day 16: Oceania by Sonia TraoreTop 22 Best Surf Spots in OceaniaSonia putting us in the mood for a summer holiday! Top 22 best surf spots in Oceania, have you visited or surfed any?\n\n\n\n📅 Day 17: Flow by Josh ReynoldsToponymic Map of England & WalesWe learnt so many interesting things every day with this challenge from the brilliant topics the team came up with for each theme and Josh certainly doesn't disappoint with this one! Toponymic map of England & Wales using our very own Seamless Towns and Suburbs data set.\n\n\n\n📅 Day 18: Atmosphere by Rachel WylesMean Summer Temperature Change Projections (3⁰C warming scenario)Rachel used the Met Office data turn up the heat on the UK, but it's not a good thing. Summer temperature change projections with the South being impacted the most. °C change relative to a 1981-2000 baseline using 3°C warming scenario on a 12km grid.\n\n\n\n📅 Day 19: 5-minute map by Simon LeechSimon knows there's no better tool for a quick map than GEOLYTIX MAPP1 - Search for our Leeds office (Park Square)2 - Run a 10 minute walk time isochrone3 - Turn on grocery locations4 - Label food & beverage in our Retail Universe data5 - So many lunch options for tomorrow! 😀Tesco meal deal? Greggs pasty? Pret soup? Tortilla burrito?All in less than 40 seconds... it'll take him longer to decide where to actually go!We spy 3 Caffè Nero within a 10 minute walk from the office, ideal to make use of our weekly Vitality vouchers!Click for link to open video in LinkedIn\n\n\n\n📅 Day 20: Outdoors by Rebecca Mellor and Aimee ThomasonOut and About in Leeds using StravaThe highly anticipated sequel to last years pasta regions of Italy, Becca & Aimee have created another corker! This time they have been out and about in Leeds on walks to spell out GEOLYTIX... we love it!\n\n\n\n📅 Day 21: Raster by Owen HibbertPopulation density of Italian provinces based on how many people can fit on a football pitchWe always love the football themes and what better country than Italy with its boot shape looking like its kicking a ball. Owen mapped population density of Italian provinces based on how many people can fit on a football pitch.Owen Hibbert: \"It's about accessible metrics, as a population density figure is not always helpful, so by displaying it in terms of football pitches, people can begin to understand how dense a place is!\" \n\n\n\n📅 Day 22: North is not always up by Stéphane MartisCO² emissions 2021 (in tonnes per capita)No, North is not always up! The usual representation of the World is only a choice of cartographic projection. Stéphane gives us a view of the world using Azyimuthal Equal Area projection, the North Pole is now located in the centre of the map.Northern countries are used to being on top of the world map but with China, United States, Europe and Russia representing more than half of world’s CO² emissions they are also on top of this metric. According to Global Carbon Budget data for 2021, if we relate CO² emissions to the number of inhabitants, we can clearly see an over-representation of Northern countries. Top of the rankings we find Qatar (around 35 tonnes per capita in 2021) and amongst countries with more than 20 million inhabitants, we also find Saudi Arabian (18.7 tonnes) & Australia (with around 15 tonnes per capita).\n\n\n\n📅 Day 23: 3D by Freddie Wallace3D Map using height and colour to highlight which countries are the biggest hashtag #FPL fanatics.With the GEOLYTIX Bundesliga heating up and reaching 18 members this season Freddie decided to check out how many managers are putting their football brains to the test globally.Using data from @LiveFPLnet and joined to boundaries from Natural Earth, Freddie made use of Cesium to create a 3D Map using height and colour to highlight which countries are the biggest #FPL fanatics. Freddie’s codepen here. Click on the image to open the video in LinkedIn\n\n\n\n📅 Day 23: 3D by Christoph Mülligann3D LADs (Local Authority Districts)Our second map for this theme, a bonus map from Christoph we thought too good not to share. Give yourself a gold star if you can name the too many ds local authority district...\n\n\n\n📅 Day 24: Black & White by Christoph MülligannCountry Cuddle Top TrumpsChristoph never disappoints! The top trumps you never knew you needed... country cuddles. Rated on 5 criteria (smoothness, warmth, spoonitude, grip, cohesion) and hours of fun to be had.\n\n\n\n📅 Day 25: Antartica by Callum ScobyThe Mountains of AntarcticaMountains of Antarctica using data from REMA, Blender to model and Adobe Illustrator to style. We think Callum not only chose a brilliant topic for the theme but produced some beautiful artwork! \n\n\n\n📅 Day 26: Minimal by Blair FreebairnThe four Tate galleries mapped using a single text file with x, y & sizeA minimal map of the four Tate art gallery locations.Tate Britain, Tate Modern, Tate Liverpool and Tate St Ives in Cornwall.\n\n\n\n📅 Day 27: Dot by Chris StoreyUsing Overture POI data under the ‘leisure’ categoryChris: \"We've been really interested in the recent updates to the Overture dataset and it is a great resource for a challenge like this! For the dot theme we took a selection of POI data categorised as Leisure, then chose some select sub categories under three themes: art, music, sport. When aggregated to a grid we counted each type. Then we got 'dotty' with the theme, by offsetting each point symbol, the size of which represents the sum of the POIs, and an overlaying colour theme based on a printer's CMYK colour system. A lot of fun to pull together!\"\n\n\n\n📅 Day 28: Is this a chart or a map? by Christoph MülligannWhat's in a face?Christoph for the hat-trick threw some faces at Google Vision AI and asked\"Does this look like someone who can make a [map, chart]?\"The faces are a mix of chart and map inventors, Geolytix founding directors and then some others just for fun.\n\n\n\n📅 Day 29: Population by Christoph MülligannVisa-free Travel Asymmetry by CountryOn the topic of population, a map on who you can visit vis-à-vis who can visit you.Christoph went one better than a hat-trick and wins the award for most contributions 🏆\n\n\n\n📅 Day 30: \"My favourite...\" by Max Laing...holiday destinationA brilliant theme to end on for the final day. Max Laing asked the Geolytix lot where their favourite holiday destination is.From hugging sloths in Brazil, hiking the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, appreciating the glaciers of Iceland, sunning in the Whitsundays, soaking up the art in Naoshima to scooting round Tuscany, enjoying cricket in India, cheering on the tennis in Nice, road tripping in New Zealand and safari experiences in Tanzania & South Africa, plus the rest! We certainly have some well travelled talent in the company. New York was the top favourite city with both Kieron and Chloe choosing it and USA, Greece and Portugal coming out top favourite countries from the team. You can view all the destinations and some holiday snaps in GEOLYTIX MAPP.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWe really enjoy contributing to this as a team and hope you enjoy looking through them. It's a bit of fun, an opportunity to get creative and indulge in one of the things that unites us in the geospatial world, maps.Freddie Wallace: \"November the most wonderful time of the year! Moustaches and Maps ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐\""
    },{
      "title": "Retail in France post Covid",
      "date": "Thu Oct 19 2023 11:45:49 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/france-retail-post-covid/",
      "excerpt": "Stéphane takes a look at retail in France in a post-COVID world with a particular focus on Food, Beverage and Grocery.",
      "content": "Overview of Retail in France post CovidNow that France is returning to a state of near normalcy post-COVID, brands are reinvigorating their expansion plans and welcoming customers back into their stores. However, the economic situation remains challenging, mirroring the circumstances in many other countries. Across all markets, there are tensions surrounding prices, and the clothing sector is grappling with the rise of new online brands and shifts in consumer behaviour—such as the success of Vinted in the second-hand market.The retail and food landscapes in France are currently hot topics in the media, with the government pushing for modernization initiatives. In some press articles and government discussions, retail parks and shopping areas are referred to as \"Ugly France\" (la France moche in French). Despite this characterization, 75% of French consumers continue to shop or dine in these areas, compared to the 25% in city centres, according to the Ministry of Economy and Finance. Perhaps this is an example of function winning over form, or beauty being in the eye of the beholder!We are seeing many major brands opening in retail parks and shopping centres in small-medium cities and on the outskirts of major urban centres. In most cases, retail parks owners are applying best practices related to green spaces, environmental concerns, and urban planning.Photo by Geolytix: Alpha Park in Les Clayes-sous-Bois (Yvelines)Focus on Food and BeverageFrance continues to present a market full of opportunities for retailers. The restaurant sector, in particular, is thriving and is expected to maintain its momentum in the coming years, with several new players closely monitoring the French market. There's also a lot of movement in the Food Retail and Grocery Sector.In France, Geolytix is actively assisting brands in understanding local potential and helping retailers develop data-driven strategies for their expansion plans.The French market stands as one of the most attractive in Europe for international QSR (Quick Service Restaurant) brands. Recently, Paris was hailed as the best destination and the street food capital of the world!In a study conducted in November 2022, based on data from over 5,400 restaurants listed on TripAdvisor, Radical Storage analysed the top 100 city destinations to identify the world’s best street food cities. The study revealed that Paris now holds the title of the street food capital of the world, boasting 350 street food eateries and the highest score. The rankings were determined based on various indicators, including the density of street food eateries per km², average TripAdvisor ratings, cuisine types, and average meal costs. In the top 10, Athens secured the second spot, followed by Rome, Barcelona, Budapest, London, Dubai, Lisbon, Madrid, and Amsterdam.Over the past decade, the dining options have significantly expanded, both in terms of the number of restaurants and the variety of food offerings available - ranging from Asian to Tacos, Fried Chicken, Greek, Indian, and more. Each is striving to showcase creativity and originality, with even French bistros embracing burgers, adapted by renowned chefs like Joel Robuchon and Paul Bocuse. However, history reveals a mix of successes and failures in conquering the French QSR Market for global brands. Interestingly, local players in France have and will continue to leave a significant mark. This could also explain why leading global brands have had to adjust their recipes, product supply, Real Estate and franchise strategies, and sometimes their visual identity (e.g. a green McDonald’s logo).According to a study realized by the company NPD Group, the average number of restaurant visits and the overall French QSR market in 2022 are still 10% lower than in 2019. However, there was a 3% growth in quick-service restaurants. A study by APUR (the Paris Urbanism Agency) revealed the number of Quick Service Restaurants increased by 8% in Paris between 2020 and 2022, while traditional restaurants decreased by 6%.A very French aspect of the local QSR market is the prevalence of bakeries offering sandwich filings and salads alongside their traditional breads. Marie Blachère, Boulangerie Ange, and Boulangerie Sophie Lebreuilly all fall into this basket and are expanding rapidly.France, with 1,500 McDonalds restaurants, hosts one of the brands largest networks. However, other brands like KFC, Burger King, and Quick are steadily opening new restaurants each week. A newcomer like Popeyes now boasts 5 restaurants in France, following its initial opening at Paris Gare du Nord in February 2023. In a recent talk in the press, Popeyes France management anticipates that 80% of consumers in the Paris region will have sampled their products by 2023. Popeyes' ambitious target is to establish 300 restaurants and Dark Kitchens in France by 2030.The Gare du Nord area, teeming with more than 150 million travellers annually and being home to one of Europe's largest train stations, is a bustling hub for major QSR brands, including Five Guys and Starbucks within the station.GEOLYTIX mobility data based Busyness Index by hour in Gare du Nord areaFocus on GroceryMany traditional grocery brands are expanding through acquisitions, incorporating segments of their competitors' networks. In July 2023, Carrefour made a substantial investment in France, amounting to €1.05 billion. They acquired 60 CORA Hypermarkets and 115 MATCH Supermarkets, strategically covering market gaps in the Northern and Eastern regions (albeit with some overlapping and cannibalization impacts to manage). This acquisition positions Carrefour in direct competition with Leclerc for the top spot in terms of food market share. On the other hand, burdened by debt, Groupe Casino is facing significant challenges and has recently sold 119 supermarkets to Intermarché, with brand changes set to take effect in early October. Additionally, Lidl has expressed interest in acquiring 600 Casino or Monoprix stores. In terms of organic growth, ACTION! has been a significant driver in France. The financial results released by Action displayed a remarkable 30% increase in net sales in 2022 across Europe. This led to the establishment of 73 new stores in France, contributing to a total network of 730 locations (and 2,263 across Europe).In the French grocery sector, convenience stores appear to be the most resilient and active format, given the evolving post-COVID consumer behaviors and the rise in remote work for employees. In this landscape, accurately defining the relevant catchment area and understanding consumer profiles is more critical than ever. At Geolytix we use our global Retail Places product and the latest population data from the INSEE yearly census (National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies) to help retailers understand shopping destinations and the catchment population to efficiently target their expansion plans.Geolytix has identified and classified more than 1,250 retail places in France:GEOLYTIX Retail Places: Paris exampleThe French retail market is continuing to grow and evolve post Covid. Our focus on the F&B and grocery sectors in this article shows how both organic and acquisitive expansion strategies are at play to capture consumer demand. Please get in touch if you’d like to see our French data or a demonstration of Geolytix MAPP France (our web mapping tool).Stéphane Martis, Director of France & Western Europe at GEOLYTIXMain Image: Photo by Tristan Colangelo on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Mental Health at Geolytix",
      "date": "Tue Oct 17 2023 02:30:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/mental-health-at-geolytix/",
      "excerpt": "Mental health matters. We have some trained Mental Health First Aiders at GEOLYTIX who are able to support the team and also organise brilliant social events throughout the year.",
      "content": "Mental health is just like physical health in so many ways - everybody has it and it is something we need to take care of.Mental health massively impacts our daily lives - from how each day feels to us, the ability to complete tasks and how we interact with friends, family and colleagues. Our mental health can change over the course of time and we may feel bright, positive and full of energy some of the time, but then also experience darker periods where we may be low on energy or motivation, or feeling anxious and stressed.It is important to recognise that however we feel is completely normal and there are lots of resources and support out there to help with how you are feeling. At Geolytix, we recognise that mental health is something that we should take time for and this is something that is actively encouraged by the Mental Health First Aiders. Meet the MHFA teamSeven of our colleagues are qualified in Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) - raising awareness of mental illnesses and reducing the stigma associated with poor mental health. The team are also fully equipped to spot the signs of those experiencing poor mental health.Geolytix MHFA TeamSome of us at Sports Day 2022What we’ve been up to this yearAs part of our efforts to champion and promote good mental health, the MHFA team organise various events throughout the year. 2023 has without a doubt been our best yet…\nEverybody loves a team breakfast to start the day and this year for May’s Mental Health Awareness Week and October’s World Mental Health Day, the Leeds and London offices put on ‘Tea & Talk’ breakfast spreads.\n\nMental Health Awareness Week Breakfast in the Leeds Office\nJune saw the first Geolytix team walks in Derbyshire and Surrey; the northern walkers summited the B29 Overexposed crash site loop, whilst the southern walkers tackled the Box Hill walk. The feedback from participants was super positive (and for some it was their first ever hike!), it was brilliant to get out and about with colleagues for a day of walking and catching up outside of the office in the countryside - watch this space for the next ones!\n\nThe Northern Walkers at the Summit!The Southern Box Hill Hikers\nFollowing the success of last year’s ‘old school’ sports day, this year we planned a big team picnic. We miraculously managed to pick the warmest day in August for everyone to meet in Regents Park for a sunny afternoon of picnic food and games, followed by a trip to the pub to extend the day!\n\nPost-picnic Refreshments\nThe Great Geolytix Bake Off has just begun for the second year, with the Leeds and London offices taking it in turns to bring in their baked goods for everyone to sample. So far we’ve had an impressive Basque cheesecake from Will, a super chocolatey cake from Catherine (complete with the missing Raspberry!) and some millionaire slices baked by Kim, with a tasty salted caramel twist. Look out for a LinkedIn post of all our bakes once the competition finishes later this autumn!\n\nWill’s Basque Cheesecake Masterpiece!What else is coming up?The shift from the longer, lighter summer days going into the shorter, darker autumn period can be tricky to navigate for many, so it is even more important to prioritise our physical and mental wellbeing at this time of year. The 2023 activities are set to continue at our London and Leeds offices this November; we have the first Geolytix games night planned, and at the end of the month we will be participating in ‘Tech-out’ Tuesday. This is a digital wellbeing day that encourages individuals and workplaces across the UK to step away from their screens and work towards a healthier relationship with digital devices.Watch out for future blogs and Geolytix’s LinkedIn to see what else we get up to.Imogen Francis & Rachel Wyles"
    },{
      "title": "Diversity in the Workplace",
      "date": "Thu Oct 05 2023 12:00:55 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/diversity-in-the-workplace/",
      "excerpt": "Geolytix signed up to the 10,000 interns foundation to offer opportunities to black students over summer 2023. How did our 2 successful applicants find their experience?",
      "content": "The 10,000 interns foundation was set up by a group of 4 people, ‘acutely aware of the lack of representation in their sector’. They offered 100 black students internship opportunities in investment management.In just 3 years, this has grown to 25,000 opportunities, with 220 firms offering internships in the summer just gone. Geolytix were excited to be one of these firms.We got to review 100s of applications and speak to many great candidates. We were planning on offering to 1 student, but couldn’t decide between Alysha and Mohamed so offered to both. Alysha asked why she was picked - both showed passion, interest in what we do and a personable warmth that we knew would fit in well with our culture.As usual we threw them in at the deep end with 2 projects. One to help review the names of some of our global places, to ensure our automated algorithms were getting it right. This opened up our world of maps to them, in some far off places across the world.The second project used our open bank and building society data - we asked them to integrate this dataset with our other geodata to understand trends and themes in bank openings and closures across the years. This project ended with a presentation. We were really impressed by their story telling, presentation skills, working together and analytical output.The 10,000 interns programme is a fantastic initiative to help businesses tackle how to improve diversity and inclusion in their workplace. We loved that both Alysha and Mohamed shared with us that they had learnt real world skills that would benefit them in future roles, above and beyond what academia can provide: “Working at Geolytix was a brief but interesting journey. From the offset we were met with the opportunity to learn about new software and new analytical techniques and with the guidance and support of our team. Another intern and I were able to assist in the progress of a real project and provide some analytical insights into data we’d been given for our project. It wasn’t a straightforward task; we did experience some challenges. But with the support of the wider team and a little problem solving we were able to deliver a good end product for our manager and the team. I’ve learnt a lot from this experience. Special thanks to Lucy for allaying my worries before internship and supporting me throughout and also Sarah for valuing my potential and accepting me for this opportunity.Thanks for believing in me Geolytix! : )” Alysha“During my internship at Geolytix, I had the privilege of immersing myself in the world of data analysis and geospatial insights. My time with the company allowed me to apply and enhance my skills, collaborate with a talented team, and contribute to meaningful projects that bridge the gap between data and real-world decision making. It was a valuable and enjoyable experience that deepened my passion for data driven solutions. I would like to thank Lucy & the team for supporting me throughout my time there and special thanks to Geolytix for the opportunity given to me.” MohamedThank you Alysha and Mohamed and the best of luck in the next year ahead!"
    },{
      "title": "International Busyness Index: Identify Activity Hot Spots across the world",
      "date": "Mon Sep 11 2023 13:38:33 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/international-busyness-index/",
      "excerpt": "Geolytix Busyness Index can be calculated worldwide and makes it easy to spot busyness trends.",
      "content": "We are excited to be able to offer another mobility data based product. This blog focuses on International Busyness Index – identifying activity hot spots in markets across the world. Check out our other blogs on Small Area Footfall (a contiguous hex grid showing footfall estimates at micro level within Retail Places), and Tracker (reporting visitor numbers in Retail Places over time).Our International Busyness Index uses our market leading experience with mobility data to provide a country level busyness ranking with the potential to cover 50+ countries.\n\n\n\nThe index reflects pedestrians and vehicles passing through a location, it is calculated separately for each individual country, based on one years’ worth of data. The index is reported at 200m hexes covering the entirety of a country and the ranking can be viewed across different time periods:\nAverage across 12 months period\nWeekends\nWeekdays\nDay Part (h: 0-6,6-12,12-18,18-24)\n\n\n\n\n\nBusyness in ActionIn the images below we focus on the daily International Busyness Index in Abu Dhabi. We can clearly see the busyness trends in the city: the busiest area is unsurprisingly central where there are the most iconic and tourist places and buildings. It is also possible to spot the importance of Musaffah industrial district, one of the most important economic areas in the United Arab Emirates.GEOLYTIX International Busyness Index in Abu DhabiBusyness Index in central Abu Dhabi showing the busiest areaTogether with this, the International Busyness Index product also includes a 24hr focus on activity levels within urban sprawls. Every individual sprawl has its own busyness index which is calculated for each hour and visualised at a 75m hex, which can be represented as a rolling animation within our MAPP platform.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nInternational Busyness Index is easily accessible in GEOLYTIX MAPP and can be integrated with your data in an existing or a new MAPP instance, or used standalone. \n\n\n\nWhy we love using Geolytix International Busyness IndexIt can be calculated worldwide, so allows us to apply a consistent approach across multiple countries. Within each country, the Index is proportional, so a location with a score of 200 is twice as busy as that with the (country retail place average) score of 100. This can help to support macro site selection and network planning, as the busiest locations can be identified at a glance.It also helps to remove the guesswork from micro site selection within urban areas, as the 24 hour sprawl index makes it easy to spot different busyness trends for different day types and day parts - allowing us to identify the ideal location for a late night quick service restaurant, vs. a grocery store where we expect more consistent busyness trends throughout the day.Finally we can easily highlight busyness peaks and troughs within each urban area and supports in understanding whether the distribution of traffic suits your site needs.To learn more about how mobility data works check out our earlier blog – Mobility data: Behind the Scenes.We’d be delighted to give you a demo of our mobility products and talk to you about any specific needs you might have, please get in touch at info@geolytix.com.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAlessandro De Martino, Spatial Data Engineer at GEOLYTIXMain Image: Photo by Timo Volz on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Debenhams: Two years (& two months on)",
      "date": "Wed Aug 02 2023 12:28:10 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/debenhams-units-two-years-on/",
      "excerpt": "Over two years since the physical presence of Debenhams on our high streets ended, we review 126 units they left vacant. What’s become of them? ",
      "content": "Founded in London 1778, after years of struggles the impact of COVID-19 finally sealed it's fate after 242 years. Bought by Boohoo group, the brand lives on but now only trades online. Physical presence of Debenhams ended in May 2021 leaving behind large empty units on High Streets, Retail Parks and in Shopping Centres.\n\n\n\nDebenhams LocationsDebenhams were located on High Streets and Shopping Centres in City, Town & Urban Centres, Retail Parks and standalone Shopping Centres. Debenhams locations classified using Geolytix Retail Place TypesDebenhams locations classified using Geolytix Retail VenuesThe final closures affected 114 towns.London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Manchester and Sheffield were the hardest hit cities losing 2 or more Debenhams from their retail offer and leaving big empty units behind left to fill. Of these 56% are still vacant. The larger the town the higher the vacancy rates.Vacant Debenhams units by Geolytix Town classifications as of July 2023\n\n\n\nWe reviewed 126 Debenhams units which closed across 2020 and 2021Research shows there are lots of plans in place for many of these still empty spaces, with some already in use. Strategies include retailer relocations, new stores, redevelopment into flats and change to leisure use for these units which became vacant from May 2021. However vacant is still the dominant position.Summary of usesThere is some commercial risk and only certain occupiers are interested in units of this size with multiple floors. Mixed-use redevelopment of upper floors to residential and workspace conversions can be desirable leaving smaller square footage to lease on the groud floor to retail & leisure in order to maintain frontage in the retail places.Debenhams units by use type as of July 2023*Average monthly footfall is higher in the Retail Places of the vacant units (46,000) vs those which are due to or already being occupied (37,500). This makes sense when relating back to the bigger towns and stronger retail places which can demand higher rents, if willing to take the plunge the footfall could be exploited.\n\n\n\nSummary by RetailersSome brands have taken the opportunity to open in new locations or relocate from existing, primarily to benefit from the larger unit.Debenhams counts units by retailers who are occupying them as of July 2023Marks & Spencer lead the way having either occupied or with plans to open in 8 of the former Debenhams units. In May 2022 they opened on Retail Parks in Stevenage and Llandudno followed by Chesterfield in the November. Leeds White Rose relocation welcomed shoppers in May 2023, with Liverpool One opening later this month (15th August 2023). Birmingham Bullring, Manchester Trafford Centre and Lakeside Shopping Centre relocations set to be ready later in 2023.Dunelm took advantage and relocated from the Rugby Central Shopping Centre they previously operated in to the empty unit on Elliotts Field Retail Park. Workington will welcome TK Maxx this month (August 2023), local shoppers would have previously had to travel 32 miles to Carlisle to bag their fashion and home bargains.Full details of which retailers have taken which units below.\n\n\n\nSummary by RegionThis map shows the number of Debenhams units which were left empty and the percent of those which are still vacant, as of July 2023*. Vacant could mean there are plans submitted to utilise these but for now the retail landscape is faced with a blank frontage. Debenhams units by Region and the vacancy rates as of July 2023\n\n\n\nList of the 126 stores which closed in 2020 and 2021 which we analysedFrom mini hospitals to flats, the empty units are being utilised for an array of activities. While some maintain a retail occupancy, many are still vacant or are in the pipeline for redevelopment. The 15 Debenhams in Scotland did not reopen at all after the lockdowns.\nAberdeen - Temporary cancer research charity shop which opened in September 2022\nAyr - Temporary job centre\nBallymena - Vacant\nBanbury - As of May 2022 it was used by volunteers of humanitarian aid for Ukraine crisis\nBangor (Wales) - Vacant\nBarrow-In-Furness - Bought by defence giant BAE Systems\nBasildon - Recently annouced Mini hospital planning to open; Basildon Health Centre\nBasingstoke - Vacant\nBath - Vacant. Plans for ground floor retail and either lab space for life sciences or offices above\nBedford - Vacant\nBelfast - Vacant. Plans for 2 new tenants, one being the Omniplax Cinema Group. Flagship Starbucks due to occupy a unit in the Castle Court Shopping Centre\nBeverley - Dunelm opened in December 2021\nBirmingham - M&S opening later in 2023. Update Nov 2023: M&S opened their 68,000sq ft store on 7th November 2023.\nBlackburn - Vacant\nBlackpool - Frasers have taken the unit with Flannels and Sports Direct set to open later in 2023\nBolton - Primark relocating from Crompton Place, aiming to open end of 2024 or early 2025\nBournemouth - Bobby’s department store\nBradford - Vacant\nBrierley Hill (Merry Hill) - Vacant as of August 2023. Update Nov 2023: German brand XTRAFIT are set to open next summer (2024).\nBrighton - Vacant as of August 2023. Previously used as a COVID-19 vaccination centre in August 2021. Update Nov 2023: Ikea store expected to open within two years.\nBristol - Vacant. Development plans for plans ‘Barr Street Bristol’\nBroadstairs - Work is due to start on the site from July 2023 with plans including 22 ten-pin bowling lanes, hoping to open in the autumn. Update Nov 2023: Still on track but delayed, new target date to open is May 2024.\nBromley - Vacant\nBury - The Range opened in November 2021. This was the retailers 200th store across UK & Ireland\nBury St. Edmunds - Primark & Everyman cinema\nCambridge - Vacant\nCardiff - Vacant (Landsec have bought they site meaning they now own 100% of St David's Centre)\nCarlisle - Vacant\nCarmarthen - Plans for Carmarthen Hwb, a wellbeing and cultural centre\nChelmsford - The Range, opening this summer (2023)\nChester - Vacant (bought by Martin Property Group)\nChesterfield - M&S opened Nov 2022\nColchester - Vacant. Plans approved to change from retail to leisure including Putt Putt Noodle mini golf course, Boom Battle Bar and Flip Out trampoline park\nCoventry - Iceland have taken 20,000sqft of the ground floor which opened January 2023. One Beyond have taken 10,000sqft of the ground floor. The Job Centre and Toy Town have taken a split of the first floor. The top floor will be open in 2023 Q4 - a ten pin bowling and adeventure golf and adult gaming centre. (Wrongly classified as vacant on original post**)\nCraigavon - Primark which opened in Dec 2022\nCrawley - Vacant\nDerby - Frasers\nDoncaster - Vacant. Plans for a cinema although residents unsure the city, Doncaster received city status in 2022, needs 3 cinemas\nDumfries - Vacant\nDundee - Vacant. Frasers Group owner Mike Ashley bought Dundee's Overgate Shopping Centre so assumption would be one of the subsidiary brands will go into the empty unit\nDunfermline - Vacant. The unit has been subdivided with apparent active interest in half of the former Debenhams\nEdinburgh Princes Street - Hotel\nEdinburgh Ocean Terminal - Temporary creative community hub ‘The Wee Hub’. With future plans to demolish and redevelop into a mix of leisure and retail with a hotel, restaurants and shops\nEllesmere Port - Next planning to relocate\nExeter - Vacant with plans for a new cinema\nFalkirk - Vacant\nFareham - Vacant\nGlasgow Silverburn - Next beauty hall concept\nGlasgow St. Enoch Centre - Vacant with plans for it to be turned into offices with a rooftop restaurant\nGlasgow East Kilbride - Vacant\nGloucester - Vacant. Redeveloping into a campus for the University of Gloucestershire\nGravesend - Vacant\nGrays (Lakeside) - M&S relocation, opening later in 2023. Update Nov 2023: M&S opened their 97,000sq ft store on 15th November 2023.\nGuildford - Demolished for flats\nHarrogate - Vacant. A plan to demolish the store on Parliament Street has been withdrawn\nHarrow - Vacant (again). The Landmark department store which opened 21 months ago closed in January 2023\nHastings - An indoor adventure park with crazy golf, amusements and bowling opened in November 2022\nHemel Hempstead - Vacant\nHereford - Vacant. While the upper floor changed into offices the Vacant ground floor is now under offer with the empty neighbouring Paperchase unit.\nHounslow - The Loft operate a restaurant with some space of the building still vacant\nHull - Vacant\nIlford - Vacant\nInverness - Vacant\nIpswich - Vacant. New owners now redeveloping staring with a new roof\nKing's Lynn - Building flats\nLeeds Briggate - Flannels tipped to be opening\nLeeds White Rose - M&S relocation, opened May 2023\nLichfield - Plans for a four-screen boutique cinema\nLincoln - Vacant\nLiverpool One - M&S relocation, the store opened 15th August 2023\nLivingston - Vacant\nLlandudno - M&S opened March 2022\nLlanelli - Matalan\nLondon Oxford Street - Vacant. Plans to extend and have 3 floors of retail space with offices above\nLondonderry - Frasers\nLuton - Furniture store VFM opened\nManchester Trafford Centre - M&S relocation, opening 30th November 2023\nManchester - Vacant. Grade II listed building to be turned into a mixed-use development with an extension to allow retail, leisure, office space. Expected to be complete in 2025\nMansfield - Vacant\nMiddlesbrough - Vacant\nNewbury - Vacant\nNewcastle - Vacant\nNewport - Vacant\nNewry - Vacant\nNorthampton - Demolishing for student flats\nNorwich - Vacant but build a complex of shops, leisure units and student accommodation on the site\nNottingham - Vacant\nNuneaton - Vacant. Plan to demolosh the building\nOldham - Vacant\nOxford - Vacant\nPerth - Vacant\nPlymouth - Vacant. With plans to be transformed with over 160 new flats shops & cafes\nPortsmouth - Vacant. The initial planning application for a 38-storey skyscraper in Portsmouth has been withdrawn.\nPreston - Vacant\nRedditch - Vacant\nRomford - Vacant\nRugby - Dunelm relocating from Rugby Central Shopping Centre\nScarborough - Vacant. Scarborough Group International who acquired The Brunswick have plans to create a new leisure-led destination, based around a modern, high-quality cinema\nScunthorpe - B&M who are already on the retail park are relocating to the bigger unit\nSheffield - Vacant\nSheffield Meadowhall - Vacant. Plans for Frasers to take the unit\nSouthend-On-Sea - Utilize Project to create a new bustling home for small businesses and organisations opening up 5th August\nStaines - Vacant. In a battle between knocking down and redeveloping into flats and applying listed building status\nStevenage - M&S opened in April 2022\nStirling - Vacant\nStockport - Vacant\nStoke-On-Trent - Vacant\nSunderland - Vacant\nSutton - Vacant\nSwansea - Vacant\nTaunton - Vacant. Plans to redevelop into flats scrapped earlier this year\nTelford - Plans to open Flip Out trampoline park and Putt Putt Noodle, Pan Asian Themed Adventure Golf\nTorquay - Demolishing for new flats\nUxbridge - Vacant\nWakefield - Vacant\nWalsall - Vacant\nWarrington - Vacant\nWeymouth - The Range opened in April 2021\nWigan - Vacant\nWinchester - Vacant\nWoking - Vacant\nWorcester - Vacant. There are stalled plans for a food hall\nWorkington - TK Maxx opening in August this year (2023)\nWorthing - Vacant. Plans for flats\nWrexham - Vacant\nYork Monks Cross - Decathlon opened October 2022\n\n*These are as accurate as possible using openly available information from research conducted by Geolytix in July 2023.**Amendment to Coventry unit made 3rd August 2023 after wrongly being classified as vacant.\n\n\n\nDepartment Stores have taken a blow in recent years, the floundering House of Fraser, a string of John Lewis closures in 2021 and independents such as the iconic Jenners in Edinburgh closing. From what we can see from the legacy estate of Debenhams it leaves us to wonder what will the face of the high street and the draw of shopping centres look like in the next few years. This feels like a blog in it's own right.\n\n\n\nIf you are interested to find out more about the Retail Place, Footfall or Town boundary data we used in the analysis please get in contact at info@geolytix.com or through LinkedIn.\n\n\n\nLouise Cross, Product Owner at GEOLYTIXMain Image: Sheffield Debenhams unit sits empty on The Moor. Photo taken by author.Published: 2nd August 2023. Updated comments on unit list: 17th November 2023"
    },{
      "title": "UK Bank & Building Society Locations",
      "date": "Wed Jul 26 2023 10:10:02 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/banking-building-societies-locations/",
      "excerpt": "Bank & Building Society locations across the UK. A reliable, openly available resource that gives users the ability to integrate this data into their work.",
      "content": "What are Banking Retail Points?Bank and building society branches across the UK provide vital services and are often thought of as key ‘anchor’ services for the area they serve. In a similar vein to the Grocery Retail Points we release as open data, Banking Retail Points offer locations for major bank and building society operators across the UK.Geolytix works on many projects that start with the foundations being bank branch locations, anyone working with data of any kind knows that the results of any processes can only be as good as the quality of data going in in the first instance. Banking Retail Points is a database of bank and building society branches which have been attributed with store name, address including postcode, Geolytix proprietary suburbs and towns, latitude and longitude, a close date where the branch is now permanently shut, and a distance to the nearest currently trading Post Office. There is no commercial sensitive data included and the data is fully open therefore you can use it in any way you like.Bank & Building Society locations in GEOLYTIX MAPP\n\n\n\nHow do we track?Current branch information is available and online for everyone to access, and closures have been a matter of public record due to the need to publicly consult on any closure, but these data are not collated into a single open database.First released in September 2021, from the next update we will update every 6 months to capture branch openings and closures that have occurred between releases. Part of the attraction of this product is that it does not contain commercially sensitive attributes but provides a complete source of publicly available information.\n\n\n\nWhere can I access the data?You can download the latest version from here* with an accompanying user guide. Geolytix release bank and building society locations across the UK, a reliable, openly available resource that gives businesses, researchers, developers, and public organisations the ability to integrate this data into their work.*This link will always have the latest version of data, even if updated after the publications date of this blog.We love seeing and hearing about how the data is being used so please do tag us on LinkedIn: @geolytix or email us at info@geolytix.com.\n\n\n\nLouise Cross, Product Owner at GEOLYTIXMain Image from Pexels: Photo by Expect Best"
    },{
      "title": "The Importance of Site Visits for Location Planners",
      "date": "Thu Jun 01 2023 07:39:53 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/the-importance-of-site-visits-for-location-planners/",
      "excerpt": "While data driven insights are essential, site visits are indispensable for Location Planning. Alison interviewed our Location Planners to find out why we do them and 10 top tips that might help you next time.",
      "content": "Site visits: Why bother?One of the best (and very occasionally the worst) aspects of working in Location Planning is getting out and seeing stores and sites in real life.We do site visits for a variety of reasons. We conduct surveys, understand trade zones, identify insights to help with model building and to assess potential new locations. Recently some of the UK-based LPPs at GEOLYTIX went out together to test our revenue estimating skills and see some new store developments, which got us thinking about the value of a site visit.In this blog we:Explain why we think it’s still worth doing site visits even when there is so much data around to inform desk-based research (check out our new mobility data products, for example!)Share some of the weird and wonderful experiences we’ve had out in the retail worldGive some top tips for getting the most out of a site visitSo, firstly, why bother going out on site? We can think of a few good reasons:To validate that the data being used in modelling accurately represent the reality on the ground.For example, Lucy once found “a new housing development, which played a pivotal role in driving a desktop sales forecast, had no direct vehicle access to a new site being analysed (for a supermarket). The route on the plans had been redirected, this could only have been identified through a site visit, consequently the site was rejected”.It helps us identify local micro-factors that perhaps aren’t easy to capture with quantitative data, but that are significant in explaining or anticipating likely model errors.“By talking to a restaurant manager, we were able to find out that ongoing crime/police issues outside the store had been negatively affecting actual sales (vs modelled)” - Imogen“Which side of the road/highway the store is on and whether it aligns with evening traffic (e.g. for a QSR restaurant, it’s better to capture people commuting home vs. commuting in). Also access within a mall and how this impacts aggregator logistics (e.g. top floor of a mall, not as convenient as competitors on ground floor level)” - LizzieIt means we can compare and contrast stores belonging to the same chain, and experience them like a customer would.“It’s good to be able to see the product range in store, and how this varies by store size” - Matt“The layout of the store and the customer journey around the store, is something you can only really pick up by visiting. If something is awkward to shop a customer may not return to that location (especially if there is a lot of competition)” - Rachel“Visiting the store of a key competitor, which nationally was a market leader, but in this particular town, they had one of the worst stores imaginable in every respect - from a data point of view it was typical store, but on the ground offered much less competition” - MartinPeople watch!“Where are people coming from / going to, where are the concentrations of people, where are the pedestrian road crossings”“You can immediately feel the customer profile - whether they are fashionable, trendy, or price sensitive; how different they are from other locations... and then you can compare against the catchment data. You can also watch the potential \"brand association\" - what's the dynamic of cross shopping among different brands in a shopping centre.” - CocoTo visit alongside a client, or chat to a store manager“They often have ‘insider’ insights around particular locations that can really help us to understand nuances in store performance, and these really come to life when you visit them together. This is particularly true in overseas markets where we may be less familiar with consumer behaviour and just generally how things work”.Next, I asked the team to share the best, worst or strangest experiences they’ve had on a site visit. They didn’t disappoint.“Trying to survey street locations in Melbourne in 45 degree heat was a unique experience. I was also lucky enough to work with Apple in China and conduct site visits on the first day of store openings amid much fanfare” - Matt“On my first ever site visit as a fresh and innocent little grad I ended up in THE strangest hotel for the night - the hotel had a fridge/ freezer randomly in the corridor, paper thin doors and was freeeezzzinggg - I had to sleep in my coat and hat haha! Safe to say my colleague and I were sleepy the next day! My site visits since have definitely improved since that initiation! - Rachel“If possible, it is great fun being able to try out in-store experiences for yourselves - these seem to be becoming more and more popular with brands, focusing on the experiential to drive brand awareness, footfall and sales. Myself and Rachel headed to a gym class at the new Gymshark store on Regent Street to really get the full customer experience...see our full write up here!” - Imogen“In the first year of my site visit life, 90% of the visits would catch a sudden rainfall (not told by weather forecast unfortunately). I got a nickname then called \"the rain forecaster\". And often I came back with some special souvenir such as an umbrella, or a pair of new shorts.” - Coco“Stores with few customers always present challenges for a location planner trying to look inconspicuous doing competitor store visits.....with all the store colleagues watching your every move, my worst experiences have been how to explain when challenged, why I'm spending so long going around the entire store but not buying a single thing!” - MartinRachel and Imogen conducting Site Visits in Wood GreenFinally, we’ve distilled our collective experience into ten top tips that might help you next time you’re planning some visits:\nPlan to be at the site at peak trading time for the business in question if possible (e.g. lunchtime for a sandwich shop).\nLook out for what bags other shoppers have - a good insight into benchmark brands.\nAct as a mystery shopper. If surveying inside a clothing store, head to the changing rooms to make notes before heading back out to finish the survey.\nKnow the length of your stride, then you can count your paces to estimate the size of a shop.\nBe aware of the weather effect. Sunny days can make you more optimistic... or just very sweaty.\nUse Geolytix MAPP if you have it! Especially great for looking at footfall in the location you're visiting.\nTake time to observe shoppers and their movements. Put yourself in the customers' shoes, look at things as a customer would.\nPlan food and coffee stops. Walking or driving around all day requires a lot of energy!\nChat to people working in the shops, they may have some useful insights.\nTake lots of notes & photos. They can help jog your memory later.\n\nAnd finally, if you ever have the privilege of going out on a site visit with Coco, take an umbrella!Alison Moriarty and the Locations Planning team at GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix Footfall Tracker: Retail Place Daily Visitor Numbers",
      "date": "Wed Apr 26 2023 18:23:07 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/the-power-of-footfall-tracker/",
      "excerpt": "Looking to identify high street or shopping centre decline, retail regeneration or seasonal uplifts? Footfall Tracker gives you a robust answer.",
      "content": "If you haven’t already heard, we’re super excited to be launching our new footfall products for GEOLYTIX Retail Places. This blog focusses on Tracker - reporting visitor numbers in Retail Places over time. Check out our other blog on Small Area Footfall – a contiguous hex grid showing footfall estimates at micro level within Retail Places.GEOLYTIX Footfall Tracker uses mobility data to monitor the average number of daily visitors to Retail Places each month.Tracker reports the daily visitor numbers and the monthly year on year comparison (this month compared to same month last year).It’s available for 15,000 Retail Places across the UK.Visitor numbers are reported from Jan 2021 and are updated monthly (2 years of historic data maintained).Tracker registers unique mobile devices once every 24 hours, meaning a person will only be counted once per day, no matter how long they dwell in the Retail Place.Easily access Footfall Tracker in GEOLYTIX MAPP. Full download functionality included.Geolytix Tracker for the London West End; showing April 2021 to March 2023 daily visitor numbersLong term we clearly see the steady return of visitors to the West End. What’s striking, if you’ll excuse the pun, is the impact of the rail strikes in the lead up to Christmas 2022. We’d have expected to see daily visitor numbers continue to climb in November and December of 2022, instead they drop off from October. In November visitor numbers are 5% lower than October and in December numbers are 11% down on October.In contrast if we look at all City Centres across the UK in the Retail Place comparison table, we see November is 2% higher than October, December is still down 3%. Keep in mind these numbers are national and therefore include the City Centres in London (all impacted by the strikes). Having had my curiosity piqued I did a bit more digging by downloading all the Tracker data from MAPP and had a look at City Centres outside London versus in London.This shows the impact even more starklyWhy we love using TrackerSee long and short-term shifts in visitor numbers. Answer with robustness questions around high street/shopping centre decline or regeneration and uplifts in seasonal or event driven footfall.It’s really easy to compare visitor numbers between locations. As I’ve done above you can look at a location verse the region and Retail Place Type in MAPP, or download the whole dataset and compare as many Places as you want to. A favourite with our customers is to correlate the performance of the existing estate against total visitor numbers and increase/decline.At the moment Tracker and Footfall are only available in the UK, but we’ll post another blog shortly about our International Business Index – identifying activity hot spots in markets across the world.To learn more about how mobility data works check out our earlier blog – Mobility data: Behind the Scenes.We’d be delighted to give you a demo of Tracker and Footfall and talk to you about any specific needs on tracking visitor numbers you might have, just get in touch at info@geolytix.com.Samantha Colebatch, Director at GEOLYTIXMain Image: Photo by Artur Kraft on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "The Power of Geolytix Footfall: Daily Footfall Counts for over 15,000 Retail Places",
      "date": "Wed Apr 19 2023 14:52:21 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/the-power-of-footfall/",
      "excerpt": "Why do we love using Geolytix Footfall? Remove the guesswork from micro site selection and immediately identify the busiest locations are.",
      "content": "We’re super excited to be launching our new footfall products for GEOLYTIX Retail Places. This blog focusses on Small Area Footfall - a contiguous hex grid showing footfall estimates at micro level within Retail Places. Find out more about our second data product in this installment Footfall Tracker - reporting visitor numbers in Retail Places over time. Small Area Footfall blends mobility data with actual survey data, to show how footfall is spread across Retail Places.The daily footfall counts are estimates for 2022. The counts are provided at 20m hexes and cover over 15,000 Retail Places across the UK. That’s footfall numbers for over 2 million locations!The counts reflect pedestrians passing a location more than once a day (e.g. on the way to and from work), but exclude dwell activity (e.g. a worker in the same location all day or someone who lives over a shop).Footfall is easily accessible in GEOLYTIX MAPP. Footfall can be integrated with your data in an existing or a new MAPP instance, or used standalone. In MAPP you can see the average daily footfall broken down by hour, by day of week and weekend v. weekday.Geolytix Footfall for London’s West End by hour of dayWhy we love using Geolytix FootfallRemove the guesswork from micro site selection. Immediately identify the busiest locations within a Retail Place or compare locations across Retail Places.When assessing new site locations get a feel for the relative attractiveness of Retail Places, and then choose the best location within them.For the existing estate use footfall to rate current performance and future potential, quantify transaction conversion, and align format or brand to the flow of pedestrian traffic across the day/evening and week/weekend. Our Footfall products leverage off a flexible mobility data core that has been built internally by our Big Data & AI team. This core allows us to build product and also to do bespoke analysis or cuts of data. If you’re curious about what goes into our mobility data core and how the data core works then check out our blog - Mobility Data: Behind the Scenes. At the moment Tracker and Footfall are only available in the UK, but we’ll post another blog shortly about our International Business Index – identifying activity hot spots in markets across the world.We’d be delighted to give you a demo of Footfall and Tracker and talk to you about any specific footfall queries you might have, just get in touch at info@geolytix.com.Samantha Colebatch, Director at GEOLYTIXMain Image: Photo by Jonny Gios on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Women in Data: The Flagship Event 2023",
      "date": "Tue Mar 21 2023 17:07:25 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/women-in-data-event-2023/",
      "excerpt": "\"Women in Data® aims to bring awareness through media appearances and events; in particular, the annual Women in Data conference.\"",
      "content": "We were delighted to be community partners of the Women in Data flagship event this year in London. This is the sixth event and the first in person since 2019. There were some brilliant speakers and sessions delivered to a room filled with 2,000 women in data including some of the women of Geolytix. ✨ Opening Remarks from Martha Lane Fox✨ Empathy, DEI & Leadership with Shola Kaye✨ Time to Stop 'Living with it' (Profustion Media & NHS)✨ Edwina Dunn, The Female Lead✨ Entrepreneurship, Data and Gynaecology (Hertility)✨ ChatGPT: Benefits, Challenges and Opportunie✨ Sophie the Robot - Personifying Dreams for the future of AI✨ Let it go! from the inspiring Dame Stephanie Shirley CH✨ The Data Points behind the Lioness and her success with Jill Scott MBEWe are feeling inspired and proud of our team, here's what some of those who attended from Geolytix thought...\"What I found most rewarding about the conference, however, was the opportunity to network with other attendees. It was great to learn about the diverse ways in which they were using data to make a difference in their organizations.\"\"I left feeling empowered by the stories of other women in the data industry and curious about the future of women's health following the talks about pushing for women to be heard in the health sector.\"\"It was a pleasure to be in a room with such an extensive line-up of relatable and inspiring female leaders and role models from across the industry - sharing their experiences, wisdom and advice.\"\"The message I've taken from this morning: we need empathy, courage and to lift others around us.\"\"Let’s be the change we want to see.\""
    },{
      "title": "A visit to Rossmann",
      "date": "Mon Mar 20 2023 21:48:35 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/a-visit-to-rossmann-warsaw-location-planning/",
      "excerpt": "Rossmann - the place to buy your health & beauty, children's toys, cat food, chia seeds, a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc and some boxer shorts...",
      "content": "In Warsaw, there is a Rossmann on every corner. This isn’t an exaggeration. On a recent visit the proximity of the store locations got my ‘inner location geek’ wondering about catchments, shopper mission and the level of cannibalisation. In city centres, their location strategy is more like a Pret in London or Greggs in the UK, rather than a Boots or Superdrug which I’d say are our closest brands.The difference between Rossmann and a Boots/Superdrug is that the shops ‘shout convenience’. You can get your health and beauty items, including premium and perfume (but not all OTC medicines, see below), health food (think Holland and Barrett), children's toys, wine and some boxer shorts. And all this in 3,000 sq ft.Wine selectionRossmann group this selection of product categories and it somehow gels together. To everyone outside the UK used to drugstores it's obviously the norm. When I worked for Boots we often analysed the first floor to hypothese how we could get the baby/gifting/photo floor ‘working better’. Here, everything is in view, and the shops I visited were bright, airy and inviting.Everyday Health and Beauty Even though the footprint is small they use different flooring to differentiate health foods from premium from everyday. 8 self scan tills were in prime location at the exit with 3 manual tills (only 1 manned) at the side.Health Food Section in RossmannProducts can be bought online, alongside Photographic services. There is also a ‘I will grow’ pregnancy and parents club.Rossmann is a German brand, founded by Dirk Rossmann in 1972, with a vision to introduce discount health and beauty to the nation. Within a decade they reached 100 stores across northern Germany. 50 years on, there are over 4,200 stores across Germany, Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Albania, Turkey, Kosovo and Spain.Drugstores in Germany don’t sell over the counter (OTC) drugs as we are used to in Boots, Superdrug, supermarkets etc. This part of the market is supplied by pharmacies (or apothekes) only.Their website states “With a commitment to make health & beauty accessible to all, Rossman maintains the brand's offering to customers with impeccable retail environments, good assortment of quality health and personal care products and well-trained service staff. The Rossmann name also inspires great confidence from customers as seen in our Own Brands which hold an important position within our product range”.Dirk Rossmann had hard beginnings helping run his family store, before founding Rossmann when he was 25. In 2020 he wrote an autobiography, which of course had the prime point of sale location in all his shops.I’ll leave you with some stats for Rossmann in Poland vs brands in the UK, and a map of the Rossmann locations in Warsaw.Poland# shopsPopulation per shop (000’s)Rossmann170023UK# shopsPopulation per shop (000’s)Tesco 280024Boots265025Greggs207033Superdrug77087Holland and Barrett71095Source: GEOLYTIX, approximate number of shops in 2023Source: GEOLYTIX MAPP - Rossmann shop locations across Warsaw\nAuthor: Sarah HitchcockImages: Author's own"
    },{
      "title": "International Women's Day 2023",
      "date": "Wed Mar 08 2023 16:22:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/women-of-geolytix-iwd23/",
      "excerpt": "We love to celebrate the wonderful women of Geolytix everyday but International Women's Day is a brilliant day to highlight this more. ",
      "content": "Women of GeolytixInternational Women’s Day is celebrated every year on the 8th March, this has been since the first gathering in 1911. This global day is powered by the collective efforts by all to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievement of women. The 2023 theme is Embrace Equity.We are fortunate but there is so much more we can continue to do to encourage and Embrace Equity. We wanted to take this opportunity to share our stories and how Geolytix has grown and thrived with thanks to so many brilliant women.⭐️ Sarah co-founded Geolytix over a decade ago and has been at the helm of building a team full of strong, intelligent and fun women. ⭐️ Half of the leadership team is female; CEO & co-founder Sarah, Samantha our Director of Strategy & New Product Development and Lisa, Director of Product. They bring a wealth of experience for the team to learn from and champion development. We wouldn’t be the company we are without them and they probably don’t always get recognised for all the parts they play.⭐️ Our first employee, Lou, was hired nearly 10 years ago, this was her first role in this industry and has contributed so much in that time. Always keen for new challenges she recently moved from Data to Business Development and Marketing. ⭐️ Jasmin joined soon after and has gone on to become head of MAPP, our online location intelligence tool, which didn’t even exist when she joined. It’s such a joy to watch her lead and develop the team behind this. ⭐️ Agata, one of our fantastic developers who adds her creativity and applies her experience to continually enhance and evolve MAPP. You have her to thank for it looking great while being so user intuitive. Also the brains behind our story map - thank you! ⭐️ We wouldn’t be Geolytix without Donna who keeps on top of all things finance, admin and office support. Lucy joined more recently and in a short space of time has made her organisational mark on us for the better. A dynamic and charismatic duo always happy to help.⭐️ Coco our fantastic project director based in China and integral to our Asia Pacific business. She is a shining light of positivity who understands what our customers need.⭐️ Becca, our first apprentice, she set the bar high coming straight from A-Levels and has gone on to grow her skills impressively. The data team has continued to go from strength to strength with the addition of Aimee, Therese & Kim. These data analysts and their skills have allowed us to deliver data and analysis in over 60 countries. ⭐️ Our strong Data Science team includes Wensi, Catherine, Krishina. They utilise client data and GeoData to create models to generate insights and help customers making location planning decisions. Where data isn’t as extensive they find creative solutions to get the job done. ⭐️ The fantastic location planners Alison, Lizzie, Imogen, Rachel, Kate who excel in project managing, being the voice of our clients internally to ensure what we deliver is to the highest standard and answering the bespoke business questions while keeping their finger on the pulse of the market with site visits.⭐️ Our Data Engineer Urmi supports the data analysts and scientists. Taking their great work and ensuring our clients can access the outputs easily in systems like MAPP, she is an integral part of the Geolytix solution. We can do it all... Women of Geolytix - Roles at GEOLYTIXWe are based all over the UK and beyondIt’s not all about our day jobs, we have a variety of personalities which makes this such a great company... read our stories https://geolytix.xyz/stories "
    },{
      "title": "Mobility Data - Behind the Scenes",
      "date": "Tue Feb 28 2023 13:56:30 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/mobility-data-behind-the-scenes/",
      "excerpt": "\"Sometimes the hype around a source of data can become so incessant and insistent that we don’t even question what’s underlying the enticing outputs.\" \nWe go behind the scenes of mobility data.",
      "content": "We’re kicking off 2023 with a series of blogs about mobility data. This first one takes a step back to remind ourselves what mobility data actually is. Then we’ll reveal what we’ve been working so hard on in 2022!\n\n\n\nSometimes the hype around a source of data can become so incessant and insistent that we don’t even question what’s underlying the enticing outputs.The dramatic changes in the way we live, work and shop caused by the Covid Pandemic have left the location planning community in desperate need of live or near live information on how places are used. No longer can we rely on gradual changes that we can monitor with a census and some supplementary information from housing building data and monitoring brand openings and closures.Isn’t there a saying about innovation springing from desperate times? We’ve seen a huge acceleration in the use of mobility data to fill the void, and bring us near real time data on human activity levels. Helping us understand the recovery and ongoing redistribution of visitors to retail places, micro pitch within places, where visitors come from, when they come and who they are. Whilst mobility data is fantastic, as with all data, it’s really important that we understand where it comes from and how best to use it when we make decisions.\n\n\n\nWhere mobility data comes fromThe particular element of mobility data that we are most interested in is the geographic location of a device. This is produced passively, as a by-product if you like, of normal phone usage.Mobile data can be collected in a number of different ways - varying by collection method, format and context.The two main sources we use in location planning are app aggregators and network (or telecoms) providers.Network data comes from the mobile network providers and monitors phone connections to masts and to Wi-Fi, which makes it comprehensive. Historically the downside has been that the reporting cells have been quite large (c.500m) and costs high. However, there is progress on reducing cell sizes and, although costs are likely to remain higher than app data, if the granularity reaches a comparable level, this will be an exciting dataset, especially for venue level insights.The majority of mobility data used is from app aggregators, but to add to the complexity, all app data is not the same!The highest quality aggregator data is from first party SDK derived data (Software Development Kit). This is collected directly from a smartphone application without any intermediary parties. The majority of pings are accurate to 20m or less, and it is all real geographical data, with no inferred locations. Volumes can be lower than other sources (described below), but there is greater consistency, accuracy and, for a third party user (like Geolytix), transparency around what the data is.Other app data mixes in social media and bidstream data to bulk out the data points. Social media and bidstream data don’t collect the device location in the same way as SDK apps (or at all). Bidstream location data for example, is collected when an advertisement is delivered to a mobile device. The location signal can be sourced from the IP address of the device (which has a wide geographical area) or a previously cached location or just a really wrong location when VPNs are used!Suppliers can be very closed about the types of apps and sources of data they are using. So it’s definitely worthwhile asking a few informed questions about what you’re getting when you buy a product or access to mobility data. And in case you were wondering… GEOLYTIX only use SDK data.\n\n\n\nInherent biasesThere are a number of inherent biases in mobile data which vary from provider to provider. Here’s our summary of the aspects that we worry about from a location planning perspective:\nApps don’t constantly stream data – they will record pings with irregular gaps in time, meaning there can be bias within the sporadic nature of the resulting lat / longs.\nDifferent apps contribute to the pool of data and this can change over time. We are particularly concerned about how the retail bias of the app mix changes.\nMobile phone ownership, or not.\nPatterns of mobile phone usage (ie. whether you take your phone out with you or not).\nUsing the apps, or not.\nDifferentials in all the above biases when it comes to shopping. Do you take your phone to the local shops more or less often than a shopping centre?\n\n\n\n\n\nBUT it’s absolutely not all doom and gloom! We can use mobile data ethically, responsibly, and usefully!\n\n\n\nLet’s address privacy first of all. Mobility data is not classed as personal data, but the fact that it can be linked to personal data and then provide insights on a person’s behaviour means that we need to treat it with the same level of caution. At GEOLYTIX we only use mobile data from providers that source their data responsibility and are GDPR compliant. We only ever receive and provide anonymised data. For additional protection all our mobility based products and bespoke analysis are provided to our clients at an aggregated level (usually hex grid or Retail Place), with thresholds in place to remove any geographies with small numbers of devices.Our new UK mobility based products leverage off a flexible mobility data core that has been built internally by our Big Data & AI team. This core allows us to create product and also to do bespoke analysis or cuts of data. We know our customers really value our ability to respond to their specific needs, so we made sure to build in flexibility into our process.In the mobility data core we compensate for the inherent weakness and biases in the incoming stream of mobile data. There are 6 key processes that are applied within the core:\nFiltering of raw pings to remove unreliable or skewed apps and low productivity devices.\nDynamic regional population weighting to ensure areas retain consistent relativity, ie. devices and events in Scotland are comparable to devices and events in London.\nAs our main use cases are around activity in retail locations, we introduce a retail stabiliser to ensure representation of devices in retail areas is maintained.\nWhere pedestrian numbers are required we remove pings occurring in vehicles, at home and at work.\nA modelled interaction surface is used to compensate for the sporadic nature of the event feed.\nDepending on the product or bespoke client requirement we introduce further data sources (such as real footfall surveys) to address any remaining bias in mobile phone ownership or usage.\n\n\n\n\n\nThat’s a whistle stop tour behind the scenes of mobile data. Look out for exciting announcements in coming weeks as we launch our latest mobility based products!24 hour mobility movement in London West EndIf you’d like to know more about anything raised above then please do get in touch at info@geolytix.com.\n\n\n\nAuthors:Samantha Colebatch, Director of New Product Development at GEOLYTIXChristoph Mulligann, Chief Innovator at GEOLYTIXChris Storey, Data Scientist at GEOLYTIXAlessandro de Martino, Data Engineer at GEOLYTIX\n\n\n\nMain Photo by Rodion Kutsaiev on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Supermarket Retail Points",
      "date": "Mon Feb 13 2023 15:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/supermarket-retail-points/",
      "excerpt": "Retail Points is a comprehensive data set of supermarket and convenience store locations across the UK. Geolytix release this as open data allowing for unrestricted use, no licensing requirements and without cost.",
      "content": "What is Retail Points?Our vision when we first released this data set in 2014 was to collate, maintain and deliver a structured one stop shop file, unintentional but suitable pun, of the UK grocery market by collating supermarket and convenience store locations including full addresses with accurate rooftop coordinates. The concept still to this day is to publish an industry acknowledged product without restrictions that is utilised by retailers, interested parties and the public. The continual success of our goal has allowed us to enhance and expand the list of retailers and fascia we track. We haven’t seen this many retailers in one place since the #Aldi30thBirthdayParty in 2020.Convenience - Aldi Local, Amazon Fresh, Asda Express, Asda On the Move, Budgens, Co-op, Jacks, Little Waitrose, M&S Food to Go, Morrisons Daily, Sainsbury’s Local, Tesco Express, Tesco Metro\nDiscounters - Aldi, Lidl\nFreezer Centres - Cooltrader, Farmfoods, Heron, Iceland, The Food Warehouse\nPetrol Forecourt - Asda PFS**, Co-op Food PFS**, Little Waitrose Shell, M&S BP, Morrisons Daily, Tesco Esso Express\nSpecialist - Booths, Marks & Spencer, Planet Organic, Waitrose, Whole Foods Market\nSymbol Groups - Spar\nTraditional - Asda, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Waitrose\nTravel - M&S MSA*, M&S Travel Simply Food, Waitrose MSA*\nWholesaler - Costco, Makro\nOther - Asda Living, Dunnes, M&S Home; Hospital; Outlet, Morrisons Home and Nutmeg\n*MSA: Motorway Service Area\n**PFS: Petrol Filling Station\nThe UK grocery landscape has changed considerably since our first version of this data set and the disputable categorisation of the fascia above displays the fluidity of how people now shop. Noting the repetitive mention of retailers in our grouping which demonstrates the variety of opportunities available to attract customers in this sector. How do we track?Each quarter Geolytix updates Retail Points to capture store openings and closures that have occurred between releases to ensure we represent an accurate grocery environment. We are fortunate to have relationships with some of the retailers we include in the data who kindly share their store lists with us. Part of the attraction of this product is that it does not contain commercially sensitive attributes but provides a complete source of publicly available information. Social media, google alerts, news articles, store finders and welcomed input from our users provide the rest. We then manually rooftop every store to give accurate coordinates. Opening dates are provided where we have been able to source them from the public record, these tend to be more skewed towards recent years since we started tracking supermarket locations. The size bands are assigned based on a combination of inputs including Valuation Office Agency (VOA), planning applications, news articles and opening hours.If you work for a retailer we track who don’t currently share their store list we would appreciate you considering contributing to this established data set which has proved invaluable. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) who work to promote competition to benefit consumers recognise Retail Points as a definitive and reputable source of information to support their analysis required for certain investigations. There is great value in attributes such as opening date and size bands and we understand the reservations retailers have in supplying these. Hopefully the recognised success and beneficial nature of having a structured source with the latest information encourages users to help us permeate the gaps. Geolytix would like to think one day we could bring together that collaborative effort so if you would be willing to contribute a store list or additional attributes please let us know, without everyone being prepared to share this may not be possible. Our ultimate vision is for all users to enrich the product together with us to ensure we can maintain delivering this valuable data regularly. The Evolution of Retail PointsWhere can I access the data?Each quarter we publish a blog and shout on our social media about the latest update which you can download from here. For the full list of retailers we track and attribute definitions see the user guide here. To reiterate this is released as fully open data which you can do with it as you please, of course if you are able to acknowledge us that would be greatly appreciated. We love seeing and hearing about how the data is being used so please do tag us on Twitter and LinkedIn: @geolytixBlog first published January 2021. Updated February 2023.Title Image: Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "GEOLYTIX are Geoawesome - Global Top 100 Geospatial Companies",
      "date": "Mon Jan 30 2023 15:30:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/top-100-geospatial-company-geoawesomeness/",
      "excerpt": "We are thrilled to make the Geoawesomeness Top 100 Geo for 2023, the annual list of the best geospatial companies in the world for geospatial companies.",
      "content": "Geoawesomeness announces the Global Top 100 Geospatial Companies of 2023\"Geoawesomeness is the world’s largest geospatial community united by its belief in the power of location technology to transform the world for the better. Since its humble beginnings on April 20th 2011, Geoawesomeness has striven to be an open and inclusive platform for geospatial experts and enthusiasts to share their passion, knowledge and expertise for all things geo. With a team of people from all around the world, with different backgrounds, cultures and interests we aim to be not only the best geo-news platform but also to provide constructive commentary about all the awesome stuff that is happening in the geo-industry.\"GEOLYTIX are thrilled to make the Geoawesomeness Top 100 Geo for 2023, the annual list of the best geospatial companies in the world for geospatial companies #GlobalTop100Geo. Over 800 companies were reviewed by an expert committee of 16 members, we are honoured to have then made the shortlist of 262 companies and finally voted to be one of the Global Top 100 Geospatial Companies list for 2023.Thank you to the Geoawesomeness committee for recognising us and thank you to our wonderful team for all their dedicated work to making us a truly fantastic and valued geospatial company. This is the second time we have been recognised by Geoawesomness as one of the top geospatial companies in the world having also been listed in 2021.“The annual list is an essential source of information about companies that are utilizing geospatial data and tools to solve problems,” said Muthukumar Kumar, Managing Partner at Geoawesomeness “and is aimed to help our community make sense of the ever-changing geospatial industry ecosystem.”“Geoawesomeness has been at the forefront of identifying industry trends for over a decade and we are delighted to see 45 new entrants to our annual list. We are grateful to all members of our expert committee for their time and critical inputs in helping shape this year’s list,” said Aleksander Buczkowski, Founder and Editor-in-Chief, Geoawesomeness.Well done to all the other companies who have also been recognised on the 2023 edition."
    },{
      "title": "New towns are not built too often in the UK: Exploring Sherford",
      "date": "Tue Jan 17 2023 13:11:35 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/new-town-exploring-sherford/",
      "excerpt": "The UK is known for its many historic towns but new towns are occasionally built. Sarah explores Sherford which welcomed its first residents in 2017.",
      "content": "We have so many historic towns in this country that when I first drove through the beginnings of Sherford, a brand new shiny town it felt very surreal. I visit family in Plymouth often and have driven through Sherford late on a Friday evening every few months, each time more and more of the houses popping up, scaffolding coming and going, then the lights coming on and cars appearing outside.A few months ago (when the sun was still shining!) I decided to take a tour around the town to see how established it is now.Sherford is a new town on the outskirts of Plymouth. The first residents arrived in May 2017 with plans for it to eventually be home to over 12,000 people in 5,500 homes. Geolytix currently estimate the population of Sherford to be 1,516. “Our towns and suburb boundaries are updated annually and are a great way of understanding the UK and how to plan your network. We created them because nothing else existed in the market”Geolytix Sherford Town Boundary within Geolytix MAPPSherford nowSherford is starting to feel like a town but it will be a few years before it feels established. I was really impressed with the design and different types of housing, a different level to many housing estates built over the last few decades, making it feel more than ‘just an estate’. Talking to the locals, the only negatives mentioned were the expected snagging with new house builds and parking. Living on a terraced street in Enfield, I was slow to notice the lack of driveways, which does help with the curb appeal if nothing else!The sales centres of Bovis, Linden and Wimpey are prominently located on main thoroughfare. I also spotted a number of For Sale signs with homeowners already moving on, a few years on.Sherford Primary School has already opened, but the only retail is a small cafe in a temporary building. A mobile catering van was feeding the construction workers whilst I was exploring. Marketing of the future retail high street is present and I’m sure will be welcomed by the existing residents.Whilst the community board was full of information, the bus waiting at the bus stop was empty - I’m sure this will change as the town grows and the retail opens. The children's playground was being used (and appreciated by my children).Walking further afield from the main road you soon reach the next new plots of land being built on, but this is cleverly planned and doesn’t feel on the doorstep.Sherford futureThe second phase of the £1bn town has a green focus. New homes in yet a different style again (contemporary Devon-style - I will share photos when built) alongside public gardens within walking distance.I love the sound of the ‘edible edge’ including allotments with raised beds for wheelchair users and a ‘nuttery’ - an orchard dedicated to growing nuts!Alongside the proposed retail, plans have been submitted for a leisure centre and swimming pool, which if successful will end a 30 year wait for a swimming pool on this side of Plymouth.I’ll continue to explore and follow the growth of Sherford. On my most recent visit, the Christmas wreaths on many of the doors showed the community spirit. I'll look forward to what Spring will bring.Sarah Hitchcock, COO at GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "Gymshark's Regent Street Flagship is definitely worth the weight",
      "date": "Mon Dec 19 2022 10:44:34 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/gymsharks-regent-street-flagship-worth-the-weight/",
      "excerpt": "Imogen & Rachel recently visited the flagship Gymshark on London's Regent Street. They review their full experience; from a workout in the Sweat Room to a Joe & The Juice shake.",
      "content": "As keen health and fitness individuals, with many Gymshark pieces in our gym wear collections, we were very excited to hear the brand was opening their first ever store on London’s Regent Street this autumn. Since its opening at the end of October, we’ve seen quite a mixed bag of write-ups, so we decided to book ourselves into the Sweat Room, and explore the full Gymshark experience for ourselves. The interior store fit out is very stripped back and industrial in style, which may not be to everyone’s taste, but to us felt like a good reflection on much of the gym and fitness industry - minimal but highly functional. There has clearly been a lot of thought and clever design at play, with clothing rails that double up as barbell racks, and mannequins based on Gymshark’s real-life models and ambassadors (representing all shapes, sizes and abilities - the ultimate encouragement of body positivity!). There was no gender specific area or categorisation of products, which may take some getting used to, but we both liked this as a slightly different and refreshing concept. The lack of space division and clear signage divided our opinion - on the one hand it encourages the customer to fully browse the store, however, on the other hand it could prove frustrating (particularly if you are strapped for time). Customers are enticed to the first floor by an engaging display of weight plates suspended above the stairs. Upstairs, there are further product displays, a dedicated selfie space and gender-neutral fitting rooms (with adjustable lighting for the very best angles). The Pro Bench area is definitely something that makes the Gymshark in-store experience stand out - free 1-2-1 sessions with a Gymshark Pro, to help with form, technique and recovery. The Hub, also located on the first floor but not in use when we visited, is a multi-use space created for guest speakers, events and more.Another great addition to the store is the Sweat Room, which we’ve shared our thoughts on below. Between 9 Gymshark Pro instructors, there are currently around 30 classes a week on offer and bookable through their app, all of these are totally free and vary across yoga, HIIT, strength and functional fitness. If all the above features weren’t enough, Gymshark has also partnered with Joe & The Juice to offer a tailored grab-and-go food and drink offer. This is located in prime position when you enter through the main store entrance on the corner of Regent Street. Although, we were disappointed there was a distinct lack of any obvious dine-in seating or sofas to enjoy a post-Sweat Room or mid-shopping spree shake.\n\nSo what did we think?...As soon as the news broke out that Gymshark were opening their first physical store we couldn’t wait to step foot inside. After what felt like a very long wait we finally got to visit.Dressed in our finest sporting attire, we booked onto a class in the Sweat Room, grabbing a well deserved post-workout shake, as well as having a good browse around the store (and trying not to spend too much money).We were a little lost on our arrival to our class (perhaps because we were slightly early?). Unfortunately, there was no one around to greet us from the separate side-entrance (ideal for pre core store-opening hours) and the lack of directional signage made finding the changing rooms an interesting early morning challenge! Once we were in the changing rooms we were very impressed with the facilities on offer. Not only were there fresh towels ready to use (excellent news for anyone who already has a jam-packed bag), but there were also Dyson hair dryers available.Unsurprisingly, Gymshark has set the bar(bell) high with the quality of classes on offer! We joined a 45-minute strength and conditioning class which certainly raised our heart rates and tested our body strength (the DOMS were real)! The instructor was brilliant - taking time out to help with form whilst ensuring everyone was motivated and challenging themselves. Although the room itself was compact (and a little smaller than expected), it had a large variety of equipment tailored towards all the different classes on offer.It was great to see the new partnership with Joe & The Juice and obviously we had to try a Gymshark special - The P&B. We did notice that the menu was slightly different to a standard Joe & The Juice - with little focus on food and a greater emphasis on juices and shakes.Shakes in hand we had a good browse around the store taking everything in - and picking out some key items for our birthday/ christmas lists along the way!Gymshark’s vision was to create an in-store experience, which we definitely feel they have succeeded in. It’s safe to say it won’t be long before we are back in the Sweat Room!\nThere is a lot happening on Regent Street right now. Alongside Gymshark, there have been plenty of new entrants to the iconic UK street with retailers quick to snap up prime space. Other recently opened stores include Icelandic outerwear retailer 66°North and Japan’s Onitsuka Tiger. It has also seen existing retailers revamping stores (there has been lots of press around H&M’s recent reopening) and been the desired location for several new flagship and concept stores; Fast Retailing Company’s first joint retail store featuring Uniqlo and Theory opened in Spring this year, and Aesop opened a larger format store in August, which even houses their own facial treatment rooms.It is a volatile but equally exciting time for retail at the moment, both in the online and physical spheres. The continued investment into Regent Street (especially in a post-pandemic climate), from both well established and fresh newer brands such as Gymshark, suggests there is still a great deal of enthusiasm for bricks-and-mortar retail space.Whether you’re a beginner just starting out on your fitness journey, or a seasoned pro, the Gymshark store (we feel) has done a really great job at creating an experiential, inclusive and exciting environment for the health and fitness and athleisure industries.\nImogen Francis & Rachel Wyles, Location Planning Partners at GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "Creating Robust Small Area Population Estimates",
      "date": "Thu Dec 08 2022 14:20:10 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/census-creating-robust-small-area-population-estimates/",
      "excerpt": "The 2021 Census results for England and Wales are gradually being released at small area. How will conducting a census during a pandemic affect the numbers?",
      "content": "Data nerds with long memories always remember challenges from the decadal round of censuses. Here in the UK the highlights have included. The first small area geographies for Enumeration Districts (ED) in 1991, which cost over £100,000 to license a year! The missing million from the 2001 Census (turns out more youngsters had scarpered to the EEC than expected). From 2011 we had the undercount controversy affecting specific Local Authorities. This year we face dealing with the challenges from a pandemic census.The first small area results were released this month, I am not going to provide early analyses from these, that will be coming in the new Year as we get closer to a full set of the key univariate tables. Rather I thought it would useful to outline a couple of those pandemic challenges.The biggest challenge relates to the simplest of all census counts. How many people live in each Output Area. Remember a full census is a snapshot of a particular week 18 months ago. A time of lockdowns, work from home orders, closed universities, bans on travel, a crazy housing market, and dealing with the premature death of 200,000 loved ones.Based on some early work we did comparing population estimates to reported census populations we had a clue that somewhere between 500,000 and 1,000,000 seemed to be in the ‘wrong’ place. Based on survey data (and having lived through it), we believe.\nSome people who had access to second homes in the country had left principal homes closer to their work in large cities.\nStudents at University Halls had been ordered to leave, some to travel ‘home’ some to fend for themselves.\nMany international students had left the country to continue studies remotely from outside the UK.\nPeople were (perhaps temporarily) moving out of cities to rent or buy properties in more affordable areas from which they could work from home.\nThe rental market was still facing all sorts of disruption including flows into and out of the short stay ‘airbnb’ economy.\n\nMigration patterns were severely disrupted with many European workers returning to their country of origin either permanently or temporarily. Furthermore, the established patterns of new in and out migration had in affect been frozen for the previous 12 months, creating some ‘pent up’ migratory pressures.It is worth remembering that the census asked us to fill in the questionnaire as things were at the time of completion. Respondents had to make assessments as to what they considered their usual residence, and provide details of other places they sometimes live. In addition to the usually resident population the householder also had to provide details of ‘visitors’ who were in the household but would be completing a census form elsewhere.The five areas of disruption outlined will have been distinct data signatures. A key area of work is how we use the census to roll forward small area estimates to 2022, 2023 and beyond. In order for the census to act as the reliable ground truth to do that we need to have ways of quantifying at small areas the impacts of the disruption.The data to do this fully have yet to be published. The ONS will be doing their own exercise to reallocate students from mainly parental properties back to their halls. But they won’t be doing the same for those living in rented accommodation, and the ‘flight to the country’ and the migration disruptions will need to be unwound or not. Some of the changes will have stuck.In addition to the detailed census at Geolytix we will be making use of some very large scale administrative data sets to help us figure these questions out. These sources include but are not limited to.\nLand Registry data on housing stock and it’s sale and purchase.\nAggregations of raw mobile phone geolocated activity logs.\nAggregations of spending pattern data from debit and credit cards, both registered home areas and areas of spending are available.\nAnonymised loyalty card data aggregations from major retailers who saw peoples areas of shopping move around.\nOther large scale ONS population movement data including in and out migration surveys.\nGeolytix data around locations and size of university Halls, pre-Census OA level estimates of population, and updated place of origin for recent migrants.\nPrevious census data (2011) to establish some baselines for non-standard accommodation types.\n\nThese disruptions will also potentially affect the demography of small areas. Was it that it was the more affluent who ‘fled to the country’ thus skewing small areas characteristics either permanently or temporarily? And did the international students come back? Or did the patterns post census stick? What was the balance between permanent house moves and temporary ones that have since unwound? There are other challenges around unoccupied properties, have all these voids since been filled. How much Airbnb stock has returned to the rental market.As well as dealing with this disruption we will see the demographic changes caused by the tragic premature deaths of 200,000 mainly elderly residents. Whether these deaths ‘pulled’ forward need to change our ongoing assumptions around death remain unclear.In short we are going to be busy early next year!Blair Freebairn, CEO at GEOLYTIXPhoto by Pawel Czerwinski on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "GEOLYTIX and the 30 Day Map Challenge 2022",
      "date": "Wed Nov 30 2022 08:39:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/30-day-map-challenge-2022/",
      "excerpt": "Daily social mapping project happening every November: https://30daymapchallenge.com/",
      "content": "The team created maps based around different daily themes for a social mapping project happening every November. It was great to see what ideas they came up with for the various topics each day.📅 Day 1: Points by Ilya IlyankouBritain's top 5 Retail Points Grocery Chains📅 Day 2: Lines by Jasmin FitzpatrickRoad Traffic in and around the M25📅 Day 3: Polygons by Simon LeechRetail Place estimated units📅 Day 4: Green Friday by Louise CrossNational Parks and Green Spaces in the Great Britain📅 Day 5: Ukraine by Christopher StoreySubjective mapping - fleeing Ukraine📅 Day 6: Network by Louise CrossRail lines into London📅 Day 7: Raster by Alison MoriartyActivity Hot Spots in Central Las Vegas Using Mobility Data📅 Day 8: OpenStreetMap by Ilya IlyankouWorld Urbanism Day. Brooklyn's Road Network📅 Day 9: Space by Urmi ShahA star map of the night sky of when and where Geolytix was born📅 Day 9: Space by Neil FarrickerVectorisation of Jupiter's south pole📅 Day 10: A bad map by Blair FreebairnA bad Bad map showing places which begin with 'Bad' in Germany and how they correlate to German mountains📅 Day 11: Red Friday by Rachel WylesAnnual CO2 emissions per capita📅 Day 12: Scale by Louise CrossScale of Australia against USA, Central America, Asia and Europe📅 Day 13: 5 minute map by Louise CrossHow far can you walk in 5 minutes? 5 minute walking from the Geolytix Leeds office using different sources📅 Day 14: Hexagons by Matt ShawPublic Electric Vehicle Chargepoints in London📅 Day 15: Food or Drink by Luke WhittamNoodle Shops in Japan📅 Day 16: Minimal by Chris StoreyChris turned the census population at Commune into random point distribution based on the value, then randomly colour with Belgian flag colours📅 Day 17: A map without a computer by Aimee Thomason & Rebecca MellorThis brilliant map with pasta originating from different regions of Italy📅 Day 18: Colour Friday: Blue by Freddie WallaceChart positions of the song Blue Monday by New Order in various countries📅 Day 19: Globe by Imogen FrancisTime Out's 51 coolest neighbourhoods in the world📅 Day 20: \"My favourite...\" by Lizzie DawsonGeolytix share their favourite restaurants across the world📅 Day 21: Data: Kontur population dataset by Kim ButterfieldBritish Isles Population Density using Kontur population dataset📅 Day 22: NULL by Matt MartinClosed Supermarkets as a share of Open Supermarkets at Geolytix Shopper Town📅 Day 23: Movement by Christoph MülligannOn the move... using mobility ping data to show average progress of working day journeys in various cities between November 2021 and October 2022📅 Day 24: Fantasy by Josh ReynoldsUFO Sightings per capita from 1969 to 2021 across the United States of America📅 Day 25: Colour Friday: 2 colours by Dan DungateYellow and Red Cards in the Premier League by Country by Appearances📅 Day 26: Island(s) by Therese BranchPopulation density of Barbados in the national colours (blue and gold). It became a Republic last year on 30th Nov 2021 (celebrating the first full year anniversary on Wednesday 30th Nov 2022). They are also the world's youngest republic📅 Day 27: Music by Robert HurstUK festivals per Local Authority District in 2022📅 Day 28: 3D by Josh Reynolds & Agata Brok11,695 pieces, 16 hours over a month of Thursdays and voila... LEGO Art World Map built by Josh & Agata in our London office📅 Day 29: \"Out of my comfort zone\" by Louise CrossMind map of things the team have done which put them out of their comfort zone📅 Day 30: Remix by Lizzie Dawson25 biggest music festivals in the worldWe hope you enjoyed our maps.Team GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "Is the opening of the first Warsaw Uniqlo the icing on the cake in changing retail trends in Poland?",
      "date": "Wed Nov 02 2022 12:39:58 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/first-uniqlo-in-poland-opening-in-warsaw/",
      "excerpt": "Uniqlo opens its doors in Poland. Jacek visited the new store in Warsaw and shares his excitement about the potential shift in retail trends the country is experiencing.",
      "content": "On Thursday October 27 2022 after a long-awaited move Uniqlo - a Japanese lifestyle fashion retailer opened their doors to Polish customers. This is an interesting move for the this company as on the one hand after having succeeded in Asia and most of Europe (they entered all the largest markets from UK to Russia), Poland seemed like a natural step for their further expansion. On the other hand Poland has been turning discount as I wrote in one of my previous blogs with many big fashion brands leaving the market so Uniqlo success would be halting or reversing this trend. There are more than ten mid-market or lifestyle retail brands including Marks & Spencer, Top Shop, Dorothy Perkins, Cubus, Camaieu, Promod, Salamander, Orsay, Sfera, Gap and American Eagle that left Poland in the last 10 years with COVID being the nail in the coffin for nearly half of them. This has resulted in an increasing number of vacant units in many shopping malls which had to revise their financial forecasts and were forced to accept big hits on their income streams given many of the units were filled with the likes of Pepco, Tedi or KiK who pay low rents. I am constantly shocked when I go shopping to Westfield Arkadia - one of the biggest and best malls in the country and many vacant units are being taken by things like Eurofirany (a curtain shop) or a 2,000 sqm no name pop-up outlet store. Woolworths, a leading German price oriented general merchandise retailer just announced the opening of their first Polish store in Krakow. Uniqlo opening could be the first sign of diversification of the Polish retail scene being strongly dominated by discounters and price focused formats.Where have Uniqlo opened?They obviously chose the capital city which is the largest and most affluent market in the country. But where in Warsaw? Well, not in one of the fancy malls which have been mushrooming everywhere since the collapse of communism. They actually chose one of “the used to be an icon” of the communist retail venue called Ściana Wschodnia or Domy Towarowe Centrum (Central Department Store) with their iconic brands such as Wars, Sawa and Junior. It was originally developed in the early 70’s when Poland’s newly appointed communist head of state Mr Edward Gierek started to experiment with the hybrid of communist ideology and capitalist consumerism which hasn’t ended up very successfully but left Warsaw with a retail landmark which has been serving customers still today.Domy Towarowe Centrum has been through a number of changes since the beginning of the new capitalist Poland. It changed ownership several times and each of the owners had a different idea of what the venue should be. The first one gave it a nice refit and started to sell more fashionable clothing, but it still had a similar set up of an old fashioned department store. Then the next one changed it into an opaque shopping mall. Finally Atrium which is a big landlord of key malls in the country, converted it into and marketed it as a venue for flagship stores of key retail brands. Therefore, we can see adidas accommodating their flagship store for the CEE Region and TK Maxx, Half Price, Zara having their Polish flagships here and now the first Uniqlo.The place is part of a key retail and leisure destination in Warsaw with big renovation projects under way next door and more development projects in the area to come in the next couple of years. That includes redevelopment of a massive square in front of the iconic Warsaw building, Palac Kultury i Nauki (Palace of Culture), which is going to accommodate a new museum of modern art currently under construction and a lot of new walking space taken from cars, all nicely surrounded by hundreds of newly planted trees and other greenery. This could all be a sign of a new retail phenomenon in Poland that some retail is moving away from fancy multibillion dollar shopping malls into once dilapidated and deserted retail streets. All of course linked to the global trend - switching from cars into public transport and making cities greener, but that’s a subject for another blog.Uniqlo chose this emerging retail destination to open their first store in Poland. For now they decided that it’s going to be just a pop-up store for one year and if successful they are thinking of an extensive roll out into other retail destinations in Warsaw and expanding beyond the capital into more cities. They took a unit of 800 sqm on 2 floors in Junior – one of the 3 buildings department store with adjacent Wars and Sawa (Wars and Sawa is kind of an acronym of the original name of the city of Warsaw in Polish – Wars-sawa).Uniqlo Store LayoutThe setup is like other Uniqlo stores with 3 sections - men's and women's clothing located on the ground and first floor, and kids’ section taking only the first floor. Their range is also typical with high quality products and LifeWear being a hero category drawing on the values deeply rooted in Japanese culture, such as durability, simplicity, and high quality.Self-service checkouts are another sign of innovation allowing customers to check out without queuing in a long line - the entire transaction process takes less than a minute and the latter dedicated only to cash payments and returns of the purchased merchandise. This was particularly handy on the opening day with long queues for changing rooms and the standard checkouts.Judging from how busy the store was on the opening day it gives me confidence that the brand would appeal to the Polish customers and the first Warsaw store would be followed up by other openings in the capital and then move to other large cities in the country. I personally believe this is going to happen, although my opinion is slightly biased as I have been a loyal Uniqlo customer for the last 15 years. I made my first purchase at the Uniqlo’s flagship Shanghai store at Nanjing lu which was a winter coat accompanying me for all these years throughout my travels in eastern Asia and Europe.Jacek Biel, Director, Central Europe at GEOLYTIXImages: Taken by the author, Jacek Biel"
    },{
      "title": "Why do Geolytix love, use and publish Open Data?",
      "date": "Thu Oct 27 2022 10:46:08 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/open-data-why-we-love-it/",
      "excerpt": "Geolytix use, create, publish and love Open Data. Here's why.",
      "content": "Data is open when “anyone is free to use, reuse, and redistribute it”, as opposed to closed data that is restricted by licensing and often requires paying a usage fee. For 100’s of years open data has been a fundamental tenet of science.In 2009 Gordon Brown met Tim Berners-Lee; the conversation reportedly began with Gordon Brown asking \"How should the UK make the best use of the internet?\" TBL replied \"Just put all the government's data on it.\" GB simply said “OK, let’s do it”. This conversation reputedly led directly to OS OpenData, the Open Data Institute and data.gov.uk. Tim Berners Lee invented the World Wide Web 33 years ago. The web, simply a set of linked documents, has been changing our world at an ever-increasing rate since. What will happen when we, and critically all our machines, can link disparate data in the same way the web lets us link documents? Open data is foundational to this idea, without it ‘cool stuff’ can’t happen, closed data licensing simply doesn’t cope with most of the new use cases.Advantages and Reservations of Open DataThere are a whole range of benefits that arise from open data; less corruption, higher economic growth, more innovation, a more engaged citizenry, preventing cartels and monopolies, evidence-based health policy to name seven. Perhaps the greatest benefit though is that is has the potential to let everyone lead a smoother, simpler, less drab and more rewarding life.Ten years ago open data was most often thought of as a way of the public sector sharing that which the citizenry have already paid for, this has changed. Businesses, like Geolytix, and individuals are increasingly publishing their open data. The two principle reasons many businesses hold off publishing open data are:\nPersonal privacy and data protection concerns. If data can be used to identify someone it is personal and therefore sensitive and cannot be made open.\nData as a source of competitive advantage. Many companies believe all the data they hold is what drives their competitive advantage.\n\nWhy companies and the government are able to collect and sell personal data, yet they or other organisations cannot do exactly the same collection but make the data open remains unclear. This is true in some cases but not many. Booksellers used to view their inventory and price lists as confidential sources of competitive advantage; Amazon changed their view on this. John Lewis customer’s shop with them because they are a damn fine retailer, not because JL know how big their stores are and how much money they take.Data as a resource has very different properties to physical resources. It has a close to zero cost of re-distribution, therefore ‘tragedy of the commons’ problems do not exist. In fact, the more people use and exploit it the better it gets.Geolytix publish Open DataWe have our own modest example. Geolytix maintain and publish an Open Supermarket Retail Points dataset. It includes over ten thousand stores, each with ‘roof-top’ co-ordinates, retailer, fascia and address. It has been downloaded directly over 1,000 times. By whom? We have no idea. What they’ve done with? Not a clue. Who they’ve shared it with? Pass. But we do know it is being used in many mobile apps, is re-distributed through many other platforms, is used to improve multiple paid-for products, and has found its way onto some of the world’s most trafficked websites. The public can now be confident of finding up to date, definitive, accurate and complete locations of supermarkets. For Geolytix; we become better known, grow our consulting business, receive more requests to license our closed data; and also get the warm glow that comes from helping others.Questions we get askedThe exam questions Geolytix get asked aren’t always about which data to license, they are; “How many restaurants can this brand open?”, “Which properties should we show home buyers searching for ‘Islington’?”, “How much money will this new supermarket take?”, “Which stores should get Click and Collect modules?”, “If we close this branch what will pensioners do?”To answer these questions we need data, lots of it, but also a lot more. The data alone takes us so far. I view open data’s primary transformative affect as the removal of a barrier. In the bad old good old days, assembling the data you needed to tackle our exam questions was a six or seven figure undertaking. A 1991 Census data and boundary pack was about £200,000 (a year!). Now a couple of downloads and off you go.Open data is brilliant for us, it has shifted the point in the supply chain where the bulk of the value lies. We primarily compete and charge for the creative thinking bit. It makes customers pick partners, not on the amount of access to expensive restricted data they have, but on the depth and brilliance of their use of that data; exactly the area where we aim to win.We don’t make all the data we create open, the stuff that helps big-time with some of our analyses, you’re going to have to pay to use that. But we are more than happy to make open some of the foundational bits that might otherwise stop or hinder analytical projects.The Benefits and Downside of Open DataThis helps in a number of ways. First, and perhaps most importantly, it is the right thing to do. Geolytix benefit enormously from government published open data, it feels correct that we, in turn, give some of our data back. Second, it helps grow our corporate profile and reputation. Sixty projects during our first three years, and every single piece of business came from someone ringing us not us contacting them. Third, it differentiates us, there aren’t many businesses genuinely giving stuff away no strings attached. Fourth, it is the ultimate try before you buy, we make our open datasets as accurate, well-documented, and user-friendly as we can.There are potential downsides; we know competitors use our open data to improve their data, we know some simply take our open data and sell it as closed data, competitors can download it and find the odd error. But these downsides aren’t really negatives at all. They don’t touch the selling proposition around answering our exam questions. Neither to they touch any of the other positives listed above, in fact they emphasise them.A scale-up business publishing valuable open data isn’t nuts. We know this because we look at our active projects every morning, breath, and get ready for another hectic, creative, productive day.Open Data Institute and the Data DecadeThis year the Open Data Institute (ODI) celebrate 10 years. It was founded in 2012 by Tim Berners-Lee and Nigel Shadbolt to “connect, equip and inspire people around the world to innovate with data.” On the 8th November 2022 they will mark this milestone at their annual ODI Summit, to join virtually, tickets are available here.Back in 2014 we were delighted to be the Business award winner at the ODI Open Data Awards, this is still one of our most cherished awards 8 years on.Blair on stage collecting the award and Lou & Sarah posing with it afterBlair Freebairn, CEO and Louise Cross, Data Product Owner at GEOLYTIXMain Image: Photo by Toni Reed on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Inside the Corner Store - ALDI Melbourne",
      "date": "Mon Oct 24 2022 15:17:11 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/inside-the-corner-store-aldi-melbourne/",
      "excerpt": "While Rachel was in Australia working on a client project she took time out to explore Melbourne CBD and visited the new ALDI format Corner Store.",
      "content": "The German discounter ALDI first entered the Australian grocery market back in 2001. Over the last 21 years, the discounter has opened over 570 stores in six states and territories – a number that is slowly catching up with the UK market (which has just shy of 1,000 stores).In July 2021 – during the midst of a COVID-19 lockdown - ALDI Australia launched a smaller, more convenient format branded the ‘Corner Store’ on Sydney’s north shore. By time of publishing, the grocer has opened three more of these smaller stores, located in Darlinghurst, Melbourne CBD and Prahran, with more set to open in the coming months. Rather than constructing new properties, ALDI have refurbished existing stores, with a strong focus on those situated in urban areas.The Corner Store aims to reinvent the way smaller formats are understood and designed in Australia, with a focus on making it faster and easier for city-based consumers to shop for groceries. The convenience format is not new to Australia, however, unlike the UK, these formats are not as widespread – with the main convenience stores typically located in busy CBDs. However, grocers across the world are seeing a change in the way customers shop post pandemic – with smaller baskets and more frequent shops becoming the new norm as well as greater focus on convenience – something that could shape the future grocery landscape.As luck would have it, Geolytix were out in Melbourne just weeks after the Corner Store in Melbourne CBD opened and so we had to pop in and visit before heading back to the UK.ALDI Corner Store Melbourne is located in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD on Swanston Street – directly underneath residential apartments and a stone’s throw from RMIT university and the new State Library Metro Station (part of the wider Melbourne Metro Tunnel expansion programme). Unsurprisingly, the area is quite competitive – with Woolworth’s Metro, Coles, 7/11 and IGA all located within 0.5km of the Corner Store. The location has clearly been chosen for its central location, good commuter links (particularly when the new station opens) and dense worker population.ALDI Corner Store is located on Swanston Street in the heart of Melbourne CBD. There are a number of competitors located within 0.5km of the store – as displayed in GEOLYTIX MAPPThe store’s layout is unique to other ALDI Australia stores, with simple navigation – including no barrier entry to the store – and self-checkouts, allowing for a quick and easy shopping experience – something that is particularly important for busy city professionals. The store’s design is also sleek, with fresh produce displayed in wooden crates and vibrant murals by artist George Rose splashed on the walls – a celebration of Melbourne’s art scene. ALDI also shout about their sustainability efforts with many reminders of their ‘net zero targets’ and ‘Aussie First’ produce throughout the store.Fresh produce is displayed in sleek crates with reminders that produce is ‘Aussie First’. The bright splashes of George Rose’s art can be spotted in the backgroundAlongside longer trading hours (allowing customers to visit after their busy working day), the store also features extensive food-to-go and convenience food options, all located within easy reach of the store entrance and checkouts. This vast focus on quick and easy food comes as no surprise given the dense worker location. Many of these convenience products are unique to the Corner Store and have not been ranged in an ALDI before – making for a fun browsing experience! The Corner Store also has a rather impressive artisan bakery featuring fresh, artisanal bread - including Grain + Stone sourdough that is exclusive to Aldi – as well as the more common pastries and sweet treats.Despite the format’s size – around half that of a ‘regular’ ALDI - the recognisable special buys still take centre stage at the heart of the store. But, in keeping with the convenience theme, some of the bulkier items or products that do not necessarily appeal to the inner -city resident have been removed from the range. The familiar low prices have not been scrapped either with many staple food items being competitively priced – meaning customers do not have to choose between value and convenience.ALDI shout about their sustainability commitments and ‘Aussie First’ produce throughout the storeThe Corner Store offers fun new treats and products, and it’s still the ALDI we know at heart! Local artwork used to strategically decorate the store celebrates the local community and creates an inviting space for customers to shop. Moreover, the simple layout is clearly aligned to the customer’s needs – predominantly customers short on time – and the extensive range of food-to-go and convenience food products further fulfils the requirements of the target customer demographics. Although ALDI is not the first to enter the Australian convenience market, they have certainly made a unique entrance!Rachel Wyles, Location Planning Partner at GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix Model Innovation Day",
      "date": "Fri Oct 21 2022 10:57:19 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/geolytix-model-innovation-day/",
      "excerpt": "Geolytix recently held a Model Innovation Day, an internal event to challenge our Data Scientists. Who was the model modeller at the end of the day?",
      "content": "In any industry, it’s important to keep abreast of the latest of the latest advancements in our field. This is of course also true in the world of location planning. At Geolytix we recently held our Model Innovation Day, an internal event which aims to give our Data Scientists a chance to challenge themselves whilst learning new modelling methodologies. It’s also a platform for us to share these ideas with each other, and a good excuse for ordering in pizza!This session’s objective was to create a sales forecasting model for a Malaysian retailer, using a mix of demographic, mobile, affluence, competitor, POI and road data. The accuracy of each model was assessed against a hold-out sample of stores, which was revealed at the end of the day. The primary goal though was for each of us to challenge ourselves to try something new, whether it be a new approach, language or software.By the end of the day we had a real mix of different approaches, including machine learning, scorecards and catchment models. Many of these different techniques worked well, and it was interesting to see how a wide-range of solutions could produce similar results. A mix of platforms and software were used by the team, including Postgres, Python (in IDEs and notebooks), R and Excel. It was great to see so many of the team trying new things and helping each other as the day progressed!Unsurprisingly there were also challenges and limitations however, in building a model in a day. For example, one topic of debate was regarding one of the most highly correlated variables (a binary store operation factor), which was arguably a little questionable. Variables like these would likely been removed or ‘turned down’ before any of these models were to hit production in a live scenario. Another important consideration would also be how best to describe each model, and outline which variables contribute to store sales, and exactly how they do so. This understanding can be key for building user confidence in a model forecast. For example, my own attempt used an Auto-ML package (a hybrid of many ML models), generated very accurate results but was extremely difficult to understand - probably not a great combination for use in the real world! (Other machine learning approaches on the day had much better explainability).Our winner for the day was Dan Dungate with his gradient boosted decision tree model. This was the most accurate, and nicely explainable, thanks to clear variable contribution charts he produced alongside the results (congrats Dan!). Most importantly though, the team had a great day and are going to reconvene to share their learnings from the session soon, and to discuss topics for our next innovation day.Danny Hart, Head of Data Science at GEOLYTIXMain Image: Photo Credit Lisa Taylor"
    },{
      "title": "Poland GeoData for Location Intelligence",
      "date": "Thu Oct 20 2022 13:37:53 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/poland-geodata-location-intelligence/",
      "excerpt": "Are you a retailer or restaurant? Does Poland feature in your expansion plans? Geolytix has GeoData to support your business.",
      "content": "Poland is a brilliant example of a country that has developed rapidly, its location is a geographical and cultural crossroads where Eastern and Western Europe meet. It represents a huge growth opportunity for both in-country businesses and overseas investments. We are very fortunate to have the fabulous Jacek working in Poland. Jacek recently produced a fascinating demographic report into changing trends over the past ten years.The team have been building a comprehensive set of Poland GeoData over the last few years to help support businesses with their location based decisions. Whether you are looking to explore entry to the market, expanding an existing estate or require support in deciding the correct format for the location Geolytix has the data and services to help.How can I find my target audience?Through our demographic data we provide current counts of population, household, age groups and affluence index at Gmina and address point. This can be layered with additional data to understand who your types of customers are and identify additional locations where your target audience is.Population at Gmina in GEOLYTIX MAPPWhere are my potential locations?Geolytix Retail Places which include Shopping Centres and Retail Parks were created to identify opportunity locations for expansion, optimisation and closures. Profiling, segmenting and scoring supports finding optimum locations based on brand presence and activity.Retail Places in Krakow, PolandWhich locations offer the highest footfall?We use mobility app data to understand activity, with the ability to show pitch, catchments and changes over time. This can be overlayed to the hundreds of Retail Places we have across Poland as a proxy for footfall and allow for ranking and recognise type of usage between places.Can you forecast potential sales?Demand layers to report retail expenditure at Gmina or address point level for Food or Non Food to be used in our sales forecasting modelling and to calculate market shares on a detailed catchment level. Which brands and competitors are near to my site?We have over 60k of retail points across Poland including all brands from the grocery sector through fashion and DIY to fast food. This gets updated on a quarterly basis and covers all areas of the country.Where is there high levels of human activity?Traffic generators, all other service points such as restaurants, cinemas, cafes, public transport stops. These are additionally used to assess and score our Retail Places.Geolytix GeoData identifies where people live, work, study and shop. The data is available on an annual license with updates and favourable license terms. We can support you with location intelligence, network strategy and sales forecast modelling. If you would like to know more please get in contact.Louise Cross, Product Owner of Data at GEOLYTIXMain Image: Photo by Reiseuhu on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Free and Open Source Software for Geospatial",
      "date": "Wed Oct 19 2022 09:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/foss4g-open-source-software-geospatial/",
      "excerpt": "If you use or develop open data and software for geospatial then FOSS4G events are for you.",
      "content": "FOSS4G, “Free and Open Source Software for Geospatial” is an internationally acclaimed global conference. It is held annually and rotates being hosted in a different city each year since the first in person gathering in 2006.This is a great opportunity for networking, discovering what’s new in open source software and discussing current and future trends in data and possible solutions useful across a variety of sectors. It involves a mix of workshops, presentations, socialising and attracts over 1,000 practitioners and advocates for free and open source software for geospatial.Geolytix at FOSS4GThe team have attended many over the last few years including Bonn in 2016 and Boston in 2017. This year FOSS4G 2022 was held in August in Firenze where Dennis presented. FOSS4G 2023 is running 26th June to 2nd July 2023 in Prizren, Kosovo, we will see you there!FOSS4G:UK Local 2022Next month is FOSS4G:UK Local 2022 where a series of events will be happening around the country. If you use, develop or evangelise open data and software for geospatial then this is the event for you. Geolytix is delighted to be sponsoring the FOSS4G event in Leeds on 17th November, you can register on eventbrite if you'd like to attend the event.Louise Cross, Product Owner of Data at GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "10 years of Demographic Change in Poland",
      "date": "Tue Oct 11 2022 12:15:12 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/10-years-of-demographic-change-in-poland/",
      "excerpt": "With the processing and release of the 2021 Census starting to come through Jacek reviews how the demographics of Poland have changed over the last 10 years.",
      "content": "Every retailer knows how important a catchment is for their store networks. Let me explain for those who are not familiar with the notion of catchment what it means – it is basically a micro market or a geographical area from which customers travel to a shop. Therefore, there are two important factors here - customers and geographical area. One needs to perfectly understood, both to identify the optimal locations for their retail outlets and to generate adequate future footfall. In established markets the key datasets help you to understand less of the “how many of them” (that’s kind of obvious) but much more of “what they are like”, so customer characteristics such as age – young vs mature, household structure – singles vs families, social profiles – affluent vs poor or early adapters vs followers etc. All those characteristics when combined could construct different types of catchments, requiring a variety of retail offers, different levels of consumption and ultimately a varied future turnover for potential retail investments.Poland Demographic BackgroundIn Poland and many other Eastern European countries although we see an increase in these demographic dilemmas, there is still a rather fundamental data issue to be fixed and it is still much more of “how many of them” than “what they are like”. The latter is of course also important but because of our history where everything and everybody was equal, hence spatial segmentation was almost non-existent – a CEO of a large company would live in the same house as a cashier or a teacher and they would all be sending their kids to the same schools and would shop in the same neighbourhood supermarket. This set up has been changing for the last 30 years but the bulk of population distribution is still heavily rooted in the past where everything was mixed. Therefore, debating whether Poznan’s Piątkowo is inhabited predominantly by young affluent families would be an exaggeration and a limited exercise. Those differences do exist, but they are on a smaller scale and matter more for niche businesses which rely on very micro catchments. The key challenge for bigger companies which plan their national expansion programmes across the region is whether they will be investing in growing or declining areas.There are many ways to describe change in an area, but population dynamics would be the key one to understand whether you can expect your business to be generating higher or lower revenues and whether your like for like sales will grow or decline. In Poland, the statistical office or as we call it GUS is still the main source for population statistics. It keeps records of all the country’s inhabitants on various levels of geography (from county to community levels or from Województwo to Gmina as they are called in Polish). At Geolytix we also use new housing available at the detailed Gmina level, mobility data, POIs, economic activity and many other datasets which are indicators of change. For today however we will focus solely on population and new housing. 2021 CensusAs in most countries, the census which is held every 10 years is the main source of demographic information. The last one which formed the base for all the national statistics over the last decade was held in 2011, however last year most of Europe (Poland included) held the latest iteration which is now being processed and slowly released to the general public.The key headline stat for many so far has been the decline in population by 476,000 people since 2011. As in many countries this level of change has been distributed very unevenly across the country. Firstly, we see a consistent trend of ruralisation (population of villages increased by 181,000) and constant decline in cities – the urban population has dropped by 654,000! Obviously, one needs to look at those numbers more carefully, interpreting an averaged national number can be misleading but can give us a general trend.Declining Urban PopulationSo, what happened to the cities with a declining population? This has been a consequence of 3 main factors which are relevant not only to the cities themselves but to the overall national trend:Decreasing number of birthsEmigration to other countriesInternal migration to the countryside and especially rural suburbs of large metropolitan areasMost Polish cities have been impacted by this trend and combined have lost more than 600,000 people (a decline of 5-10% of their 2011 population). The key large cities affected by the negative growth include Łódź which lost over 50 thousand, Bydgoszcz, Częstochowa, Katowice, Bytom, Radom Sosonowiec and Zabrze from 20 to 25 thousand but there are tens of smaller ones which contribute to that high loss of population.Top urban gainersThe largest cities such as Warsaw, Krakow, Wroclaw and Gdansk have however reversed the urban decline trend, and have indeed witnessed a boom in population within their urban administrative boundaries:Warsaw having gained over 150,000 (9%)Wroclaw 42,000 (7%)Krakow 40,000 (5%)Gdańsk 25,000 (6%)In addition to these major markets there are some 10+ smaller settlements which form satellite towns within those large agglomerations with even higher double digit growth rates.Elsewhere, administrative boundaries changes (another impact of the new census rollout), have resulted in growth for 3 smaller regional cities - Rzeszów, Opole and Zielona Gora.Sub-Urban GrowthNow let’s have a look at the growing rural or sub-urban population. That positive delta is of course a bit misleading here too as the main contributors of that number are rural settlements around large cities which in fact make them more of suburban housing districts rather than typical rural areas as they are currently classified by the national statistics. There are only 3 cities in the whole country where rural surroundings hardly saw any population growth, these are Walbrzych, Opole and the Eastern part of the Katowice Conurbation. Otherwise, all other large cities have seen a net gain in their rural suburbs having grown by 450,000 people which accounted for 6% when compared to 2011 census.In Warsaw, on top of the growth of 150 thousand within the urban admin boundaries, given the strength and pull of the agglomeration it additionally benefits from the highest number of rural newcomers with an additional 125,000 people within 50km - a daily commuting distance to the city centre. Poznan follows suit with a growth of almost 100,000 new inhabitants and Gdansk-Gdynia-Sopot being ranking third for growth with 65,000. Then there are Krakow and Wroclaw with around 50,000 each and the rest of the smaller cities falling into a one-digit categoryTravelling around the country it’s been great to see first-hand some of the fastest growing settlements develop over the last 10 years:The Gmina of Kosakowo north of Gdynia which grew from 11 to 20,000Komorniki, Dopiewo and Rokietnica in Poznan area with c. 70%Długołęka and Siechnice in Wrocław with 65%Wieliszew, Lesznowola and Żabia Wola in Warsaw agglomeration with 40-60%Rural Birth RateThere is also one more regional pattern for the rural population growth on top of being part of a larger agglomeration, and that’s South-East Poland (Małopolska and most of Podkarpacie). This region still demonstrates way of life and values where population growth is not a result of wealth. It’s the way people live their lives there - they have growing families contributing to positive population growth, something which has been a norm for the last hundreds of years but has been slowly diminishing, still exists in south-east Poland having positive impact on retail market.Population growth which is concentrated around the pockets of largest Polish cities and in South-East contribute 60% and 15% of all the growth in the entire country respectively.Rural DeclineNot all Polish rural Gminas are growing and most of them have been declining – out of the 2,171 rural Gminas 1,679 witness a decline in population of between -1% to -20%. You can say that if the area is not a suburb of a larger city or is not in South-East Poland there is a high chance that it will be losing its population. The level of the decline is not consistent however and can be as high as double digit negative delta in the North-East around Bialystok. Over to the Eastern and Western fringes of the country the decline is around -5% to -10%.This article of course covers macro level changes, over the coming weeks and months we will be working closely with our clients in Poland and elsewhere across Eastern Europe to understand how the micro level changes will continue to shape their retail networks, whether that be in Gocław or Służew in Warsaw, Ruczaj in Kraków or Klecina in Wroclaw. Understanding how areas have changed in the last decade combined with new datasets on movement are also helping us form our understanding of potential demographic shifts and their impacts in the coming years.\nJacek Biel, Director, Central Europe at GEOLYTIXMain Image: Photo by Sebastian Huber on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "UK Retail Points - Supermarket Locations 2022Q3",
      "date": "Fri Oct 07 2022 13:24:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/supermarket-retail-points-v25/",
      "excerpt": "Looking for a list of supermarket locations in the UK? Look no further. Free to use, accurate and updated quarterly. Geolytix have the resource for you.",
      "content": "Openings and closures of the major supermarket chains from June to September 2022 have been reflected in the latest release of the Geolytix open Retail Points data set. Read more about the background of this data set here.Summary7 Aldi openings - including new Aldi Local at the O2 Centre (opened 21st July 2022)15 Lidl stores added - including Lidl Houghton Regis & Lidl Edinburgh Corstorphine, both opening in August 2022Iceland - Swift expansion continued with a store in Finsbury Park opening (10th August 2022), 4 Food Warehouses also opened (Fazeley, Tonbridge, Nottingham & Truro)9 Farmfoods additions including Northwich & Winsford stores both opening in September 20228 Tesco Express stores added & 1 Superstore (Cinderford Superstore - opened 15th September 2022)Little Waitrose - 64 added for Shell Petrol Filling Station locationsYou can download our latest release of the Retail Points data set here with all the accompanying documentation. We love hearing about how the data is being used so make sure to tag us on Twitter or LinkedIn.Rebecca Mellor, GEOLYTIXMain Image: Model is our very own Sarah Hitchcock"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix International GeoData",
      "date": "Fri Oct 07 2022 09:37:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/international-geodata-location-intelligence/",
      "excerpt": "Geolytix GeoData underpins the informed location decisions we support our clients with. ",
      "content": "At GEOLYTIX we help retailers and restaurants make informed decisions about how many stores, who to acquire, where to open, which format, how to optimise home delivery and click & collect operations.What We DoFundamentally we make it easy to get product to your customer, be that via: \n\nStores in just the right locations, and none in the wrong ones\n\n\nA fulfilment network that supports immediate delivery\n\n\nInnovative delivery mechanisms – shared kitchens, lockers, direct to a safe place, pop up shops, etc.\n\n\nRecent events have demonstrated:\n\nBoth retailers and customers are embracing, and switching between, all methods, modes and formats of retailing like never before\nIt’s vital to be flexible and prepared, to capitalise on present opportunities and weather any storm.\n\nGeoDataWe specialise in retail network optimisation and use detailed, granular data on the market. We have data on residential, worker, student and tourist demand at small area geography. Statistics on every Retail Place, who’s there, where does it rank in the retail hierarchy, how large is the catchment, what type of people does it attract? Change, how is the population changing, how are places changing, how is brand performance tracking against the market? We can even see weekly shifts in human activity using mobility data.DemographicsOur demographic data comes at the lowest possible administrative geography, with current population and household counts, sex, age groups and affluence index. The data is also available at hex grid.\nIdentify target locations to aid expansion or optimisation\nPrioritise locations where your target audience live using demographic characteristics; population density, age groupd and afflunce metric\nFind areas which are growing, declining, or shifting in their demographic structure\nHelp to determine relevant product groupd or channels specific to consumers in the area\n\nRetail PlacesRetail Places are named and classified boundaries identifying areas where people go to shop, spend money, and interact with a commercial environment dominated by retail. These underpin the ability to identify opportunity locations for expansion, optimisation and consolidation of stores and assets. Profiling, segmenting and scoring supports finding optimum locations and understanding activity.\nIdentify areas of activity\nCan be supplemented with Mobility data to identify hotspots, monitor activity, and analyse changes in interaction throughout a day or week\nHelps you evaluate your assets through supporting network planning or estate optimisation\nClassified to support varying formats and help to provide opportunities for both pedestrian and vehicle lead missions\n\nWe capture all city and large town centres, along with their key retail streets. We segment our Retail Places into 11 standard types, ranging from community, destination, and transport. We create Retail Venues within defined Retail Places to further refine concentrations of retail and assets.GeoData CoverageWe offer Demographics and Retail Places for 55+ countries with consistent structure, comparable definitions, annual license with update and favourable license terms and unlimited users. If there is a country we don't have listed below please get in contact as we are continually growing our coverage.Combining customer analysis, data, world leading modelling, tailored outputs ensures Geolytix are the people to support you with your location based decisions. If we could provide data and services for your business please get in contact.Louise Cross, Product Owner of Data at GEOLYTIXMain Image: Image from Microsoft PowerPoint Stock"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix: An International Location Intelligence Company",
      "date": "Thu Oct 06 2022 11:45:28 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/geolytix-global-location-intelligence/",
      "excerpt": "From start up to scale up, Geolytix has worked with some of the biggest retail, leisure, and restaurant brands in more than 55 countries over the last 10 years.",
      "content": "The Geolytix team is our greatest asset, a dynamic culture is at the heart of the company. We strive to support our clients in their pursuit of location analysis and nurture an international mindset to operate as a single international business regardless of physical location. The core of our modelling expertise sits in the UK but we are fortunate to have bases in several other countries to support clients locally. Over the last decade we have been building up a large network of data partners and contacts, established over many years, to provide additional support as required for location data.Geolytix in NumbersOur team of 50 individuals is made up of 13 nationalities, in total the team have travelled to over 100 countries, we understand different markets. Many have lived in different countries over the years gaining invaluable on the ground knowledge.Along with our wealth of experience and local knowledge based in the UK we also have people based in 7 countries; China, France, Italy, Japan, Poland, South Africa and the UK. Combining all this extensive experience has allowed us to support our clients in over 55 countries.Countries Geolytix have done projects in in tealRecognised for International TradeGeolytix have won many awards over the years but two particularly stand out. We are thrilled to have been recognised with the Queen's Award for Enterprise: International Trade in April 2021 and ‘Export Champions’ from the UK’s Department for International Trade also in 2021.Introducing our International TalentLuke Whittam - Business Development DirectorBased in Tokyo Luke supports our customers in the huge and fast-changing Asia Pacific region. Luke has over 20 years’ experience in network planning for a wide range of leading retailers and brands across these varied markets.Coco Lin – Project DirectorCoco has nearly 15 years’ experience in research and analysis, including retail network planning at Tesco China and real estate market research at Cushman & Wakefield. She is also an RICS member with both vision of development feasibility and understanding of the market expansion environment. Coco is based in Guangzhou, China.Samantha Colebatch, Director of Strategy & New Product DevelopmentSamantha has shaped the space expansion of retailers in Australia and the UK. After working with Coles Myer to grow multiple brands, Samantha moved to Sainsbury’s to lead their strategy for network expansion. After 4 years with Geolytix in London Samantha is now working across Asia with Geolytix Australia.Jacek Biel - Director, Central and Eastern EuropeBased in Warsaw Jacek leads Geolytix Central and Eastern Europe. Jacek has over 20 years of experience in location and property research across markets in Europe and Asia. During his career Jacek has managed projects delivering location strategy, new market entry and M&As.Stéphane Martis - Director, France & Western EuropeStéphane has more than 20 years’ experience working with Location Analytics and Marketing Data. He led the Data & Analytics team at one of the leading companies in this sector, managing services for major brands in many verticals. Stéphane joined Geolytix in 2022 to support our clients in France and Europe.Alessandro De Martino - Data EngineerAlessandro has an education in GIS from the university of Milan and Lund (Sweden). Having worked at the Mobility and Environment Agency of Milan as a GIS analyst, he has experience in delivering solutions for projects that have a requirement for GeoData interpretation and analysis. He supports Geolytix in his role as spatial data engineer.Robert Hurst – DeveloperRobert is a Full Stack engineer in Cape Town South Africa. He has an education in Software Development from Varsity College, Cape Town. Rob previously worked on multiple platforms for various insurance companies in South Africa.Data and Services for Location AnalyticsWe'll be following up with an International Series of blogs showcasing our local market experience and data products.This grounds Geolytix as your go to location intelligence solution who provide an ideal mix of data driven decisions, extensive experience with a local lens applied to support you with your location analysis based decisions because location matters.\nMain Image: Photo by Kyle Glenn on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Online Mapping Platforms & the future of desktop GIS - is this still a relevant discussion?",
      "date": "Tue Oct 04 2022 17:39:06 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/online-mapping-platforms-the-future-of-desktop-gis/",
      "excerpt": "Why online mapping? Sarah shares five key benefits of online mapping platforms and whether the desktop GIS is dead.",
      "content": "In 2015 I was asked to write about the future of the desktop GIS in an AGI publication. I had my crystal ball out, and I think I got it about right.Our development team didn’t have a crystal ball. They had a belief, vision, plan and the brains to make my futuristic hopes reality. When I wrote the article we were at the beginning of our journey with GEOLYTIX MAPP. Fast forward to 2022 and more and more of our customers are enjoying the benefits.Why online mapping?\n\nYou can access it anywhere from any device: yes this is great (as long as you’re not on a train without any wifi!). I think this feature drives the most value for our customers who want to collect information: on their own stores, on competitors, on potential sites.\n\n\nUsers: unlimited users is easier to implement in the cloud than desktop. The real value comes from role based users, where different teams can access different information that is relevant to them, ensuring a customer can have one system with one version of the truth, that is fit for purpose across the organisation.\n\n\nSimplification: Our developers are very protective of our product - they won’t add a button or process unless it makes sense. Google maps is intuitive and therefore users of any online mapping system expect it to be as easy to use. A surveyor that needs access to a site report can access a map and one report button. A location planner that wants to interrogate more data can have access to numerous layers.\n\n\nSpeed: This benefit is huge. Is cloud quicker than desktop, or is it that our web developers won’t integrate anything that doesn’t ‘work’ immediately! Online mapping applications are built on the newest code platforms with the newest techniques (I never thought I’d be having to understand the concept of a serverless software, but that's for another blog). If data won’t load instantly then the data/code is optimised until it will.\n\n\nModel Integration: in 2015 this was something I thought couldn’t be done.\n“...by 2020 the amount and volume of processing (e.g. loyalty card, competitor locations, demographics, gravity modelling, mobile phone or financial data) makes it likely that a web interface could not handle the transfer of data”\n\n\nOur gravity and spatial interaction models are data and process hungry. However, how wrong could I have been! Our development and engineering teams have experience in desktop, customer models and are passionate about learning the latest innovations. Because of this and because they understand the whole end to end, they have surpassed our expectations, integrating any spatial forecasting model we throw at them, even when it includes processing millions of real-time anonymised mobile pings. At times we were trailblazers and we’ve won awards, including the Queens Award because of it.Is Desktop dead?Online mapping solutions are a better choice for most users. But for super users who want to run different spatial adhoc queries frequently, then a desktop GIS is a good solution for them, alongside the Alteryx’s of the world. Because, in 2022, a desktop and online mapping system can access the same information seamlessly, I don’t think this is a question we have to ask anymore. If an analyst prefers to use ArcGIS, Mapinfo or QGIS, but can enter a potential site and run a report, and their colleague can open an online map and see that site, then everyone's a winner.Sarah Hitchcock, Cofounder & COO of GEOLYTIXMain Image: Photo Credit Lizzie Dawson"
    },{
      "title": "Machine Learning within Location Planning",
      "date": "Mon Oct 03 2022 16:00:44 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/machine-learning-within-location-planning/",
      "excerpt": "Machine Learning is not new. We have used it in Location Planning for years, but new advancements mean now we can do more. Danny shares more about the Geolytix ML journey.",
      "content": "Machine learning has been an ever increasingly hot topic for some time now. As CPU and GPU speeds have increased, advanced algorithms/statistical models can more quickly provide insight and answers for a range of complex problems. New libraries and techniques are constantly evolving and improving.\n\n\n\nMachine Learning within Location PlanningWhen reading about AI or ML though, you’re often presented case studies from large tech companies such as Spotify’s recommendation algorithms, or Facebook’s former facial recognition neural networks. These types of models, in addition to much of the teachings on the subject, are reliant on large sample sizes.So how have advances in machine learning affected location planning techniques, especially when we often must deal with significantly smaller datasets than this? Even a large network of 1,000 stores is relatively small compared to most case studies…Well, whilst all of these advancements are very exciting, it’s more a case of evolution than revolution. Location planners have been using machine learning techniques for years. Even a simple linear regression model is machine learning. The computer simply calculates the coefficients/weights of each variable. Geodemographic segmentations too have been built using clustering algorithms for many years. New model libraries and faster computational speeds though, have expanded the tools available to us.\n\n\n\nModel innovation when working with rich data samplesWhere we have had rich data sources (e.g. aggregated customer spend data) we have been able to build complex granular market share forecasting models, challenging more traditional techniques. Some of our recent case studies include replacing gravity models with gradient boosted decision trees for grocery clients, or using machine learning to predict F&B delivery sales at postcode level. Thanks to cloud-based clusters we can run hundreds of iterations of these models to achieve the best calibrations, resulting in more accurate models.Some of our model data inputs too are built using machine learning techniques. In markets with no granular population data, deep learning combined with aerial imagery enables us to disaggregate known populations according to how “built-up” an area is. Clustering algorithms are used for customer segmentation and our urbanity classifications. Using AutoML techniques have allowed us to compare the effectiveness of different algorithms for different problems. We’ve used natural language processing to classify menu items based on their names, the list goes on.All of these approaches above may not have been as easily available to us until relatively recently, but most do require significant volumes of data. So, what about when we’re trying to solve problems with smaller sample sizes?\n\n\n\nWhat about when we don’t have huge data samples?Often in the location planning world, the reality is that we don’t have rich, geocoded customer data available to us. Often store networks may not be expansive, especially when newly entering a market. Let’s imagine we’re building a sales forecasting model to help identify new potential store locations, and we have 300 existing stores on which to train our model(s). This sounds like a healthy sample size, but in machine learning terms it’s relatively small. What’s more, this sample of 300 stores might consist of 100 shopping centres, 150 high street and 50 train station locations; all of which potentially have different sales drivers and might even require separate models. There is still a need to predict new store sales as accurately as possible, and we can use machine learning principles to help us achieve this, but we shouldn’t do so blindly.We might auto-calibrate a machine learning model, or run correlation analysis, and find that the “most important” feature of a store is, for example, its opening date. At this point, it is vital that we challenge each of these potential inputs. A store’s opening date may be misleading as older stores must perform well enough to survive any closure programmes, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the older a store gets, the more revenue it will make. Machine learning cannot make this distinction, it’s a judgement call the data scientist must make. Another common example is when using any ‘distance’ measures as model inputs. For example, being close to a traffic builder (e.g. supermarket) may have a positive effect on sales, but is this correlation being driven by a just handful of coincidentally poor performers located very far away from a supermarket? Is the model favouring locations which are 5 metres away as opposed to 50 metres away (this is 10x further away after all)? In this case, we may need to manipulate or scale our input data. How about new store formats, or stores which are opening in locations dissimilar to the current network – will the algorithm know how to handle these? There are many questions like these which we must ask as we stress-test our models. Ultimately, we want our models to not only produce the most accurate results, but also to make sense to the end-user. With smaller sample sizes it is especially important to take care as we build our forecasting tools to prevent overfitting, or misleading correlations and accuracy from smaller training and test sets. Thankfully at Geolytix we have many experienced location planners who work alongside the data science team to ensure that this is the case. In many cases, a model with more straight-forward logic might be more appropriate, but we can still take learnings from machine learning approaches to challenge the more traditional methods.\n\n\n\nThe Importance of Explainability and Final NotesExplainability is another important consideration. It’s unfair to call all machine learning models “black-box”, but they often can be harder to understand than for example a traditional scorecard approach. We can still determine how important each model variable is, and python libraries such as SHAP or LIME can help us understand more about how exactly these variables interact with each other, and the final forecasts. https://shap.readthedocs.io/en/latest/_images/example_notebooks_api_examples_plots_beeswarm_3_0.pngIf the end user has been on the model building journey then this level of explainability may be more than enough, especially if the end result is a more accurate model. But what if the model forecasts and reports are shared amongst many within the business? Is a 5% improvement to accuracy worth it if stakeholders can’t easily understand how the end forecast is reached?\n\n\n\nUltimately there are many considerations to be made when building any models, especially in the location planning world where we’re forecasting complex consumer behaviour, often with smaller sample sizes. At Geolytix we’re model-agnostic, and work together with our clients to select the best approach for each problem. Machine learning advancements have equipped us with more tools than ever to do this, but it’s important not to forget the importance of experience and how the end results will be used.\n\n\n\nDanny Hart, Head of Data Science at GEOLYTIXPhoto by Pixabay"
    },{
      "title": "Experiencing IKEA’s First City Centre Store in China",
      "date": "Wed Sep 07 2022 14:08:31 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/ikea-china-shanghai-city-centre-store/",
      "excerpt": "This summer Coco had her first business trip back to Shanghai, one of the key things she ticked off right upon arrival was to visit the IKEA Jing’an City Store.",
      "content": "After three years of working from home in Guangzhou I made my return to Shanghai, I was keen to visit the IKEA Jing’an City Store which opened in July 2020.Think about your typical occasions when buying furniture, you may say it’s not something you do frequently. Traditionally - perhaps, and still now for many people - you wouldn’t mind travelling out to the edge of town to a large IKEA box, once or twice a year, spending half a day there with your family or friends.Now with its convenient city centre location, IKEA is trying to fit into your everyday life - albeit with a limited space of 3,000sqm spreading across three floors.A PLACE TO CHILL, instead of a simple furniture store, you could feel this strategy in many areas across the store:\nThe blend-in of Shanghai alley style, the view of Jing’an temple from the broad windows\nThe pleasant Restaurant & Café, plus Swedish food market taking over 1/3 of the space on F3, with the compliment of “Swedish on the go” (snack bar) at the exit of G/F\nThe interactive design centre – you can configure your dream home through the digital tool and get immediate professional help\nA selected merchandise of 3,500 items centered around 5 function areas: bedroom, living room, tableware & cookshop, home decoration, and kids.\n\n(A total of 9,500 items could be ordered from the mini program or the IKEA APP. Everything in store has a QR code attached so that you could easily buy online)\nI also witnessed a varied customer profile through the duration of the day: Grandparents with young children in the weekday morning, office workers popping in for lunch or coffee, white-collar workers and residents living nearby coming in to get away from the work pressure or heat outside – relaxing on the soft sofa, picking up something here and there, chatting with friends now and then…Thanks to its superb location, the store can reach a wide customer base, yet to keep them returning frequently requires further efforts. After all, it is not a store selling FMCG or fashion.According to media reports, 12 different themes have been designed for the entry hall - updated each month, keeping the store fresh, collecting feedback, and responding to different consumer tastes. Furthermore, the Restaurant & Café bar host “Community Labs” periodically for social communication.Out of professional habit, I tried to identify some characters of the core catchment by comparing it with some other popular locations in Shanghai (ref. Figure 1).Interestingly, despite the similar quantity of customer base, the core catchment of Jing’an City store stands out with some remarkable features such as (ref. Figure 2 and Figure 3):1. Living space: A relatively high ratio of single bedroom units or shared units in Apartments for Rent, suggesting small households are relatively more active in terms of relocating in this neighbourhood and therefore have a higher demand for relevant furniture2. Household members: A high share of primary school and kindergartens per person should attract good number of families with kids to live in here (despite small household leasing being more active). There’s also a high provision of pet facilities in the catchment, even if it is a slightly lower index than that of Cloud Nine (one of the comparable locations).3. Lifestyle: A noticeably high ratio of gym/sports facilities and bar/pub per person suggests an active and lifestyle driven demographic in the catchment, something which the IKEA store may be targeting with its Community Labs?The demographic data echoes IKEA’s current selection of merchandise. Perhaps if IKEA opens the next city store elsewhere the ranges may be different… time will tell?And if holding the next Community Lab Event, gym/sports or wine element could be potential attractive topics?I ended my first visit by purchasing a desk lamp for wfh (work from hotel – the lighting in the hotel was too low). I very much look forward to visiting the store again on my next visit to Shanghai! Maybe I can find a sort after fancy limited edition item then :)Coco Lin, Project Director at GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "Bridging the gap between Censuses",
      "date": "Fri Aug 26 2022 13:28:36 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/uk-residential-data-bridging-censuses/",
      "excerpt": "The UK Census is conducted every 10 years, so how do we bridge the gap between to get granular population and household estimates and forecasts?",
      "content": "The UK Census is every 10 years. Blair speaks brilliantly about the purpose of it, its importance and why we are excited about it.It's vital for us in supporting our clients to give them a current view of where people are living to identify growing and declining areas.\nFind opportunity locations to open a new store\nIdentify areas lacking in amenities such as access to education and facilities to promote investment prospects\nAnalyse customer accessibility to your asset using public transport and road links\n\nThese are just three of many reasons why your organisation needs this data. In order to bridge between Censuses we create and annually update our Residential data pack to estimate population and households at postcode and Output Area (OA). The Government aims to deliver 300,000 new homes per year, if they annually hit their target it would mean over three and a half million new home since the last Census. You need to know where these are.The Office for National Statistics (ONS) annually release national and subnational mid-year population estimates. These population estimates are released at Local Authority District (LAD) level. Geolytix use these along with other data to disaggregate down to calculate population and household estimates and projections to a more granular level (OA) each year. The England & Wales Census was conducted in March 2021 and in June 2022 the first results were published at LAD and included population and households. We were keen to compare to confirm how good we are at modelling future UK occupied households and population at postcode level... extremely good is the answer :)Geolytix have used these published actuals to update our Residential data pack (population and household) for 2022 to estimate counts at OA level. Given the ONS have estimated each year between Censuses the actuals may show greater growth or decline across different towns. This is due to various lifestyle changes in the last 10 years such as migration, immigration, Brexit, Covid-19 pandemic; heightening movements like ‘flight to the country’.Later in 2022 the ONS will release the next wave of data for England and Wales at OA level to give actuals at a granual level. Northern Ireland will be releasing theirs in the next few months. As Scotland postponed their Census due to the pandemic to March 2022 we will continue to estimate in the same way we do each year at OA for Scotland until their results are published. We are very excited to get our hands on this data, to immediately process up, analyse and share with you in a usable format just like we did in 2011.Louise Cross, Product Owner of Data at GEOLYTIXPhoto by Gonzalo Facello on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Filling the gaps with {mydentist}",
      "date": "Wed Aug 24 2022 07:18:35 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/filling-the-gaps-with-mydentist/",
      "excerpt": "How Europe’s biggest dental provider uses GEOLYTIX MAPP to manage their network of practices and target the most appropriate opportunities for growth.",
      "content": "{mydentist} operate almost 600 practices across the UK, providing NHS and private dental treatment and helping around 4 million people a year improve their oral health. They are rolling out new, purpose built, state of the art practices in prominent and accessible locations as part of an ambitious investment programme, as well as continuing to grow through acquisitions and practice refurbishments.As GEOLYTIX MAPP is customisable and bespoke to each client, we were able to apply its powerful spatial analytics capabilities to the dental care landscape and provide the {mydentist} team with tools for strategic and tactical decision support.MAPP allows {mydentist} users to:Visualise the practice network and access key associated data quickly and intuitivelyUnderstand practice catchments and the context in which they operateConduct white space analysis to prioritise M&A activity and download target listsGenerate reports for new site opportunities“We have found the GEOLYTIX MAPP system to be an invaluable tool in helping us make better informed decisions as we transform our practice estate through significant investment. It has enabled us to adopt a patient centric approach, allowing us to identify geographies with the greatest potential for growth, work out our optimum future network of practices and display data in an easy to visualise format. The team at Geolytix have been great to work with – quickly gaining a clear understanding of our business and providing us with practical tools to help us on our journey.” - John Hudson, Property Director at {mydentist}We provide some examples of the functionality {mydentist} MAPP users have at their fingertips below.1. Visualise the practice network and key associated data\nView all practices on the map, or toggle them on / off based on the type (e.g. to only show the Advanced Oral Health centres)\nSelect individual practices and view key property and operational information. This information is easy to update via batch upload whenever things change, and is role-dependent so that only the teams who need certain sensitive information have access to it.\nView a gallery of photographs of the practice.\nView & manage Area Manager territories, with the option to edit the boundaries as the network changes.\n\n2. Understand practice catchments and context\nVisualise practice catchments on the map. Turn on a boundary which illustrates where 80% of patients come from, or dots representing patients counts by Census Output Area.\nDownload patient counts by ward or postcode. This supports merge / relocate proposals, ensuring existing NHS patients continue to have convenient access to dental care.\nUnderstand catchment demographics. Visualise various Geodata on the map by toggling on different themed layers, such as population by age group or Index of Multiple Deprivation.\nView propensities to use different treatment types. Indexes are calculated which indicate whether the catchment population is more or less likely to choose private treatment, for example.\nTurn on competitor practice locations and see key information, such as details of their NHS contracts. Generate a table of nearby competitors or other MyDentist practices, sorted by distance, and download.\n\n3. Conduct White space analysis\nApply filters to Shopper Towns or Seamless Locales, so that only places that meet certain criteria are selected.\nMultiple lenses, such as demand, competitiveness, levels of NHS provision and fit with the existing network can be overlaid.\nThe results are instantly displayed on the map, and in a table which can be downloaded.\n\n4. Generate Site Reports\nDrop a pin in a new target location and generate drivetime isochrones.\nView summary charts & tables comparing the population in a practice’s catchment area to the rest of the UK.\nAdditional report pages showing competition, geodemographics and bespoke patient potential indices.\nEasily zoom in / out on the maps if required. Save to .pdf for onward circulation.\n\nWe look forward to continuing to support {mydentist} in their mission to help the nation smile, and finding more ways to achieve clear alignment between their insight needs and MAPP’s ever-expanding functionality.Alison Moriarty, Location Planning Partner at GEOLYTIXGet in touch at info@geolytix.com if you’d like to find out more about what MAPP has to offer."
    },{
      "title": "Where the FAANGs live.",
      "date": "Mon Aug 22 2022 17:47:15 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/where-the-faangs-live-bps/",
      "excerpt": "Blair visited Battersea Power Station over the weekend and shared some of his thoughts.",
      "content": "Together with the new Kings Cross/Coal Drops Yard area, Battersea Power Station (BPS) is going to be one of London’s two new FAANG hubs in London. Apple have taken 500,000 sq. ft. in the central Boiler House at BPS. Whilst Google’s 650,000 sq. ft. ground scraper runs beside the tracks at Kings Cross, and Meta occupy 425,000 sq. ft. behind the old gas holder next to St Pancras Basin 500m Northwest of Google.New retail places in the UK are rare. Geolytix always try and visit them, retail parks to shopping centres to urban districts.We have already done a couple of appraisals for potential occupiers of BPS and three colleagues have had the guided tour. But it was great for me to see these areas as a regular visitor. First impressions prompt me to wonder about the symbiosis between futurist dystopian films and architects. Are the creatives working on ex Machina, Equals, and Gattacca the same people who designed Paddington Basin, Canary Wharf and Nine Elms? It sure feels like it.The main retail areas are due to open October 8th, according to a friendly member of staff in one of the F&B units. There will be 120 units in the main power station building. And linking the tube station to the main building there will be sixty units along Electric Boulevard. I think the tube station is called Battersea Power Station Station which is a satisfying quirk. The photo I took (above) is where tube passengers, who have walked up Electric Boulevard, will emerge from a gorgeous set of stairs to gaze upon the mighty Power Station. For now, there are about a dozen units in the Arches behind the new Circus West Buildings, and about another dozen in the Circle West building facing the main building. To be frank, it is a bit of raggle-taggle line up, but that is all about to change. There are dentists, a VR arcade, boutique cinema, an independent grocery store, and half a dozen local London brand F&B units including Black Sheep Coffee. These early pioneers have been slowly opening and growing their trade over the last two years and the Arches does have a certain vibe developing. It will be fascinating to see how the pitch develops once the global giants of retail open in the Power Station itself.The BPS site links to the Nine Elms US Embassy led development about 700m to the East. That linkage is not compelling yet as the joining areas are building sites. I am not convinced the linkage will ever be strong, and the Waitrose next to the embassy is too far away to pop into from the main area, leaving the M&S food hall on Electric Boulevard, I suspect, to soak up the transient/neighbourhood food spend.For sake of FAANG completeness Amazon’s 600,000 sq. ft. offices opened back in 2017. This office is in Shoreditch or the City depending on whether you sport a tie or rock a man bun. And Netflix have 100,000 sq. ft. on Berners Street in the heart of the advertising/film/TV hub North of Oxford Street in London’s West End. We will write up these areas another time.Blair Freebairn, CEO at Geolytix"
    },{
      "title": "The Sweeter Side of Life",
      "date": "Thu Aug 18 2022 08:54:18 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/waffle-house-sweeter-side-of-life/",
      "excerpt": "Rachel suggests a sweet spot to visit in St Albans, The Waffle House. We recently supported their team with customer and location analysis.",
      "content": "Having lived in St Albans for the past five years I have become rather familiar with The Waffle House, passing by (and stopping in for a well-earned treat) on many local walks in and around the area. Most of us locals recognise The Waffle House by the building – a beautiful 16th century watermill located on the River Ver. Kingsbury watermill was known to be used for milling and farming purposes and although it is no longer in use, the waterwheel is still running, adding a certain charm and character to the building.The Waffle House is situated within a Grade II listed building – a 16th Century watermill which was known to be used for milling and farming purposes.The Waffle House is perfectly positioned at the bottom of Verulamium Park in the picturesque and historic St Michaels village – a short wander from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. One of my favourite routes to The Waffle House is down the quaint Fishpool Street – a name that is believed to have originated from the fishponds that provided a livelihood for Saxon residents. This street is steeped in history - which is evident from the intricate mix of Georgian, Tudor, Neo-classical and Victorian architecture. For over 900 years, this street was the first (or last) stop on the road between London and Manchester and became home to as many as 14 pubs and inns – of which one is still open today. The Georgian red bricks of the watermill will come into view as you approach the bottom of Fishpool Street. The entrance to The Waffle House can be found just across the 18th century stone bridge - which is believed to be the oldest extant bridge in Hertfordshire.During the 10th Century Fishpool Street became a section of the main road from London to the north-west of England and it became home to many inns and pubs (as many as 14)If you do decide to pop in before continuing your walk, you’ll be greeted with a menu full of sweet and savoury Belgian waffles with some imaginative toppings (chilli con carne waffle anyone?!). The restaurant is open from early morning through to early evening meaning it's perfect for breakfast, lunch or an afternoon treat and there is the option to sit inside, or outside by the river – which is perfect on a balmy summer’s day! Everything is made fresh to order and can be amended to cater for specific dietary requirements – something that is particularly important to me being vegetarian and dairy intolerant.We were delighted to support The Waffle House team with customer and location analysis at the beginning of the summer. Using our mobility data, we were able to draw valuable insights on the demographic groups that are more or less likely to be Waffle House customers and how far they are travelling.Rachel Wyles, Location Planning Partner at GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "LondonShuffle",
      "date": "Wed Jul 27 2022 16:11:52 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/londonshuffle-shuffleboard/",
      "excerpt": "Six years ago we had a team social to a newly opened Shuffleboard club called LondonShuffle. We were delighted to support them recently with some location data and analysis.",
      "content": "According to George Bernard Shaw, “happy is the man who can make a living by his hobby”. And one of the joys of Geolytix is that we get to work with an amazing array of clients – some big, some small – in a wide range of sectors.One of the hobbies of at least one team member is the niche game of Shuffleboard. It’s a game with a colourful past – banned by Henry VIII for being too addictive, and seen as being so sinful that allowing it to be played in her pub led to poor Bridget Bishop being the first woman executed during the Salem Witch Trials. Imagine then, Lou’s delight when we took a call from LondonShuffle – the only UK venue with both lane and table shuffle under one roof – and the venue of a Geolytix social 6 years ago.Team social at LondonShuffle in November 2016We were only too pleased to support LondonShuffle with some location data and analysis – and were even more pleased to agree payment in the form of an upcoming team event to introduce more of the team to the sinful joys of the game.Geolytix – no spatial job too big or too small. Get in touch!Ben Purple, Director at GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "Triple Nominations for the Women in Tech Awards",
      "date": "Mon Jul 18 2022 07:24:35 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/women-in-tech-nominations/",
      "excerpt": "You’ll know by now that there is nothing we like more than being recognised and winning the odd award.",
      "content": "We are beyond excited that not 1, not 2 but 3 of our spectacular team have been nominated for the Women in Tech Excellence Awards. We already know that our team is full to the brim with role models and the best leaders and innovators, but it means a lot when our customers and networks recognise this. We’re so proud that Agata, Jasmin and Sarah have been nominated for 8 awards between them.Agata, is our senior developer and is one of a small team who are responsible for the success of our GEOLYTIX MAPP software. She loves understanding the clients’ requests and turning what we thought was impossible into the possible. Alongside her amazing ability to code, her character lights up our team, along with updates on her tennis skills, new languages, cooking and travelling. Agata has developed MAPP from France, Italy, Poland and the UK over the last 12 months!Jasmin was promoted to Head of Product just over a year ago. Prior to GEOLYTIX she was in the Property world and hadn’t any experience of being a Product Owner but she jumped at the challenge. She builds such strong relationships with all our customers so is the perfect person to ensure our software roadmap hits the spot. We can’t imagine the MAPP team without her now – her ability to ‘live-demo’ MAPP from anywhere on any device is legendary!Sarah, our COO co-founded GEOLYTIX a decade ago. Back then there weren’t any plans for GEOLYTIX to build our own tech, but after we’d successfully managed hundreds of client projects which involved building user interfaces in numerous mapping platforms, we thought it was time to add our own into the mix. Sarah was shown the ropes by our lead developer Dennis and thrown into a new world of leading a software development team. Whilst the day to day is now managed by Jasmin and Lisa, she is far too passionate not to stay involved!Good luck to all three, all winners in our eyes."
    },{
      "title": "Census 2021 - England & Wales first results",
      "date": "Thu Jun 30 2022 13:38:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/census-2021-england-wales-first-results/",
      "excerpt": "The Office for National Statistics (ONS) published the first results of the 2021 England & Wales Census this week at Local Authority District level.",
      "content": "The first release of 2021 Census data included five datasets about population and households for England and Wales at Local Authority District.\nusual resident population by sex\nusual resident population by 5-year age group\nusual resident population by sex and 5-year age group\nusual resident population density\nnumber of households\n\nPopulationThe ONS have done a great job of estimating the population in the gap between the Censuses. On Census Day, the size of the usual resident population in England and Wales was 59,597,300 which is only a couple of hundred thousand less than estimated.The population of England was 56,489,800. The population of Wales was 3,107,500.Age ProfileThe results showed slightly fewer children than the ONS expected meaning there is some over estimation of fertility. There are more 20/30/40 year olds demonstrating an underestimation of net migration and marginally fewer older people indicating an ageing society but not by as much as predicted.Spatial Pattern - 'Flight to the Country'The LAD results allow spatial patterns to start to be analysed and hypothesis about 'flight to the country' as an impact of the Coronavirus pandemic. There were ~300,000 less people in inner London and ~300,000 more people in the home countries than projected.\"The mechanisms that created this pattern will only become clear when the full data is released this Autumn (international migration, internal migration, second home usage, student locations), but I am pretty sure this is the 'flight to the country' we all heard anecdotal evidence for.\" - Blair Freebairn, CEO at Geolytix.We’ll be publishing the data to an open interactive MAPP instance to display these initial results along with comparisons to the previous Censuses in the next few weeks.Geolytix Modelled DataIn order to bridge between Censuses we create and annually update our Residential data pack with population and household estimates & projections (5 years forward) at postcode and Output Area. How good are we at modelling future UK occupied households and population at postcode level? Extremely good is the answer :)"
    },{
      "title": "Providing The Original Factory Shop with the tools to make Informed Network Expansion Decisions",
      "date": "Wed Jun 22 2022 15:55:54 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/tofs-informed-network-expansion-decisions/",
      "excerpt": "The Original Factory Shop were looking for a forecast model and network blueprint to help guide their latest phase of new store expansion across the UK. GEOLYTIX rose to the challenge of forecasting sales for this bargain retailer with a somewhat unusual store portfolio.",
      "content": "Do you feel vaguely knowledgeable about the geography of the UK? Then let’s play a game! Where are the following places located?\nHeadcorn\nDalry\nFrodsham\nShildon\nStaveley\nLutterworth\nShotts\n\nHow did you get on? We must admit that even the more, ahem, ‘seasoned’ Location Planners at GEOLYTIX struggled with a few of these. Not so the lovely team at The Original Factory Shop (TOFS), however, who successfully operate stores in all these communities.TOFS store in Bridgnorth, Shropshire (photo: Alison Moriarty)The Original Factory Shop is a national business, made up of 180 local businesses, and run by local people. TOFS say that “local is a way of life in our towns and we want to be here for each of our customers, whilst they live it”.TOFS stock an ever-changing selection of big brands at up to 70% off regular prices, across many different categories from Clothing to Home to Health & Beauty. This offer has resonated well in the 180 small and medium sized towns in which they now operate, and the business is entering a new phase of store openings. TOFS engaged GEOLYTIX to provide a data-based approach to guide this expansion, with a model that forecasts revenue for potential new store locations and an actionable and robust network blueprint.Building a sales forecast modelThe first thing we set about doing was understanding the key drivers of sales performance within the existing estate. TOFS have a membership card, so we could use anonymised data from that to inform our understanding of how far their customers are travelling, how this varies between more urban and rural areas, and which demographic groups are more or less likely to be TOFS customers.We collated data on relevant competitors (quite a substantial list given the surprising breadth of the TOFS offer) and analysed all the usual suspects in terms of store attributes (size, car parking) and location type. GEOLYTIX Retail Places is a great dataset for modelling projects such as this, providing insight on the strength and profile of each town centre, retail park or small parade. Tourism was another important factor, with many TOFS stores benefitting from being in highly seasonal locations. We used mobility data to identify the places which receive large visitor influxes in the summer months.Our early efforts at finding basic correlations, for example between population & store sales, were not promising. However, once all the model building blocks were in place and we could quantify, for example, how saturated with competition each store catchment is, we did get to a forecast accuracy level we could all be happy with. We also reviewed how the model would behave in locations outside of the typical TOFS profile, for example larger town centres, to make sure it was producing sensible results.Deploying in MAPPOnce the model was ready, we provided the functionality to run a forecast for any new site (in seconds, at the drop of a pin) in TOFS’ very own customised GEOLYTIX MAPP instance. We also created a report, which can be dropped straight into a board pack, summarising key details about the location, how the sales forecast has been built up and comparing the site to the most similar ‘analogue stores’ in the existing estate.TOFS store network in MAPPBuilding a Network BlueprintWith the model ready, we could then batch run it on over 10,000 candidate locations (appropriate retail places and supermarkets) to identify those with sufficient sales potential. The qualifying locations were then deduplicated to provide an optimal network for TOFS store expansion across the UK, ranked from strongest to weakest.A collaborative effortThe TOFS team were fantastic to work with and gave us lots of helpful feedback along the way. We’re so pleased to hear how the work has been supporting their recent store openings.James Price, Head of Property and Estates had the following to say:GEOLYTIX have provided us with a bespoke network Blueprint and location planning model, in MAPP. The toolsets have been used across the business and are now contributing to the strategic growth of our estate. The support from the GEOLYTIX team throughout and post the project launch was exemplary.Alison Moriarty, Location Planning Partner at Geolytix"
    },{
      "title": "The bright lights at Geolytix",
      "date": "Mon May 30 2022 12:21:15 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/the-bright-lights-at-geolytix/",
      "excerpt": "What do Geolytix and Hollywood have in common? Admittedly, on the whole, not that much! No diva attitude around here I’m glad to say!",
      "content": "On a rainy Friday in London last week, Geolytix London HQ was transformed into a film set.We work with some amazing partners across the world and one of those in APAC commissioned a film crew to record an interview with us. They wanted to bring to life the power of location planning for their Board, and asked Blair and me to help them do that. We’re always happy to talk about our favourite subject!So with Josh (nominated as ‘best interviewer voice in Geolytix’) asking the questions, away we went.Blair and Samantha in the spotlightKey topics we touched on were:How a data driven approach to location planning creates value for clients.What can be done today that couldn’t be done historically.We’d love to share our thoughts with all of you too, so please do get in touch to find out more, or watch out for future blog posts, maybe even a link to the video!Samantha Colebatch, Director of Strategy & NPD at GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix France",
      "date": "Wed May 18 2022 23:03:49 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/geolytix-france/",
      "excerpt": "Geolytix is excited to announce we open our French office. Welcome Stéphane Martis to the team.",
      "content": "You may have read our first article on this blog about our name.We are definitely called Geolytix and this is now even more clear.Some of you may know the comic book series called the adventure of Asterix about a village of indominable Gaulish warriors…Now Geolytix is ready to conquer the Gaul as we open our French office!You will find there all we can do with the same passion and enthusiasm around data: Spatialanalytix, Machinelearnix, Salesforecastix and many of our magic potions.Stéphane Martis will be leading this office (we are thinking about changing the last letter of his name for a x…) and is now a great member of Geolytix family (familix?).We help our customers make informed decisionsSince the day Geolytix came into being, we've been telling our customers where to go; how many stores, who to acquire, where to open and how to optimise home delivery and click & collect operations.Where people live, work, study and shop.We create datasets across the globe to help with your network strategy and location based decisions.DEMOGRAPHICS - IRIS boundaries with current population and household counts, sex, breakdown by 15-year age groups, affluence index (globally scaled and nationally scaled). These variables can also be supplied at 500m hex grid and are structured to match 80+ countries we have demographics for. Additional Census attributes available.RETAIL PLACES - Global Retail Places are named and classified boundaries identifying areas where people go to shop, spend money, and interact with a commercial environment dominated by retail. All City and major Town Centres along with their key Retail Streets have been captured. The Retail Places are segmented into 11 standard types ranging from street, destination, and transport. These include Shopping Centres, Retail Parks, Outlet Centres, Airports and Train Stations.MOBILITY - Ping data from mobile devices to give a granular level understanding of activity, anywhere in the world, with the ability to show pitch, catchments, and changes over time.The pandemic period has led to significant changes to the way we work. Opportunity for some of us to change job… but above all to review where and how we are working (office or home office).End of April, French employees went 13% less to their office compared to pre-Covid period. In the UK this is even more and reaches -18% while this is only -3% in Germany (Source: Google COVID-19 Community Mobility Trends).The following graph illustrates the evolution of this number for those 3 countries since the beginning of the pandemic (see impact of various lockdowns, August in France where lots are on holidays and Christmas period). Graph source: https://ourworldindata.org/For Geolytix, Residential Sociodemographics and Mobility Data are important to understand the full picture of a location. Here is an example of business center La Défense near Paris that illustrates the estimated number of people per hour during an average day.Please contact us if we could help support your business where location matters.Stéphane Martis, Director of France and Western Europe at GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "Welcome to Oxygen!",
      "date": "Wed May 18 2022 10:58:02 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/welcome-to-oxygen/",
      "excerpt": "Back at the beginning of April we were invited to embrace our inner children and bounce our way around Oxygen Freejumping at the O2. ",
      "content": "Oxygen Freejumping first opened their doors back in June 2015 and now have five parks – located in Acton, Croydon, The O2, Derby and Wilmslow. Each park is strategically located in either a retail park/outlet or leisure park allowing customers convenient access to the park.The O2 park benefits from proximity to North Greenwich Tube Station, which made travel for us simple \na 15-minute hop on the Jubilee Line from London Bridge. This is certainly a ‘destination’ driven park\nwith customers having the option of a spot of bowling, shopping, or eating out to name a few of the activities available.\n\nOxygen at the O2 is located within the Icon Outlet Centre on the Greenwich Peninsula. North Greenwich Tube Station is easily accessible and there is also a large car park available.Oxygen pride themselves in the range of features and activities they offer and once you’re inside you can certainly understand why! The parks are large and have over 10 different, interconnected bouncing zones including a dodgeball court, balance beam (where the brave can choose to battle against their friends) and high ropes.The team were spoilt for choice with where to bounce first, but we certainly gave everything a good go, including the balance (aka battle beam) which certainly brought out our competitive sides and was a unique way to introduce the new starters! Luke even managed to impress park staff with his skills and ended up to on the professional trampolines!Ale and Simon didn’t hold back on the balance beam!When we booked our session, we forgot to check our calendars and booked a session during the Easter school break. Unsurprisingly, we were some of the oldest bouncers in the park, but that did not put us off – we were just extra vigilant for little feet! Alongside the typical freejumping sessions (where anyone can bounce), Oxygen dedicates specific times during the week for toddlers. During this time 0-5 years olds can explore freely without any bigger kids getting in the way.Alongside the variety of activities there is also large café and seating area allowing space to re-energise and/ or sit back and watch. I completely underestimated how tiring bouncing would be and 20 minutes into our hour slot I was feeling the burn, so this space came as a relief and gave me time to catch my breath!My energy came back after a quick pit stop!Geolytix have recently worked with the team at Oxygen to provide a robust, data-driven approach to help understand their existing estate and guide site selection. Using some of our Geodata in MAPP, Oxygen can quickly assess potential park locations and shape the future of their estate.The team really enjoyed the session and worked up a healthy appetite for beers and burgers afterwards!Rachel Wyles, Location Planning Partner at Geolytix"
    },{
      "title": "Mental Health & Team Wellbeing at Geolytix",
      "date": "Tue May 10 2022 21:21:21 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/mental-health-team-wellbeing-at-geolytix/",
      "excerpt": "Mental Health and Our Team's wellbeing is something we prioritise at Geolytix. Click to read more about what we do for our team...",
      "content": "Just like physical health, we all have a state of mental health, and just like physical health, mental health can affect anyone. Geolytix understands this and have taken a number of steps to create a work environment that supports everyone’s mental health and wellbeing. Geolytix encourage staff to enjoy a work-life balance and actively encourage flexible working. This is great as it allows you to take time out of your day to recharge – whether that is going to the gym or sitting down and immersing yourself in the next chapter of your book.\"Geolytix is really committed to the mental health and wellbeing of its people, and it’s clear to see! A huge amount of importance is placed on work-life balance and our working hours are flexible to accommodate this.\"The team have also started ‘monthly challenges’ where a different activity will be organised to allow everyone to take some time away from the screen. January - Let's get out and about, get outside on your lunchbreak, go for a run, read a book in the park, grab a coffee and take a lunch time stroll.February - ‘What are you up to?’ which encouraged the team to get chatting about the things that they were watching, reading, and listening to (which definitely provided some excellent TV recommendations!). March - Plant Care 101, Wensi shared her vast amount of plant/ plant care knowledge and weekly updates on what she was currently growing in her allotment! April - Bake Off Geolytix Style, we are invited the bakers amongst the team to bring their bakes into the London or Leeds office to be tried and tested by the professionals! Bakes were judged not only just on taste, but also aesthetics and it was hard to determine a winner.May - This month, we’re getting back outside and making the most of the glorious (?) May weather with some geocaching. We are sharing tales and photos of our finds!As well as these everyday ways in place to encourage great mental wellbeing within the workplace, there is also an emphasis on establishing an open and supportive atmosphere. To help with this, Geolytix supported three team members in qualifying as mental health first aiders. The two-day course promoted better understanding of mental wellbeing and provided the first aiders with the knowledge, skills and confidence to offer support to anyone who may need it. The training is available for anyone in the company and four more of the team have signed up who will be getting trained in the next few weeks.\"There is a culture of mutual respect and support, which means I would be comfortable in confiding in colleagues from all over the business if I was struggling with anything and knowing there are mental health first aiders who have been trained to listen without judgement is really comforting.\"The company have also ensured that individuals have a great space to work in. Working from home? No problem - you will have all the equipment you require to ensure you can work efficiently. For those who like to come into the London office they are able to work in a bright, plant-filled office with brilliant views over the city – which definitely helps to brighten even the dampest of Monday mornings!Rachel Wyles, Associate at GeolytixPhoto by Max van den Oetelaar on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "A Day in the Life of a Data Scientist",
      "date": "Tue May 10 2022 21:10:18 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/a-day-in-the-life-of-a-data-scientist/",
      "excerpt": "Ever wondered what the life of a Data Scientist is like at Geolytix is like? Read more to find out...",
      "content": "I was recently asked to write a blog on 'a day in the life of a GEOLYTIX Data Scientist', and while every day here is different, I thought I'd use last Thursday as my example...I went into our office in Exmouth Market, London. We've recently been re-decorating, and this week two huge prints of some maps I had made for Sarah had arrived. They showed off the UK and South Korean traffic volume data, two products I'd helped build. It was so exciting to see your work displayed like that, now they're just waiting to be hung on the wall!Later that morning we had our weekly team meeting, where everyone available dials in and each week a different colleague chairs a thirty minute discussion about a variety of topics; usually updates from recently delivered projects or the latest in our MAPP or data product development.Straight after this I joined our twice weekly Mobility Team check-in. These sessions bring together a couple of Data Scientists and members from the Data Product and Business Development teams and we discuss all things mobility data. This data source has quickly become an important component to a number of our products and processes (and the main focus of my recent work), so it's important we keep across everything going on. We discussed the progress I'd been making on a new mobility product we've been designing, and I got some encouraging feedback.After this my meetings for the day were done, so I could focus on improving the new data product - after grabbing some lunch from the excellent food market just next to the office!For the rest of the day I was working in SQL and Python to refine the methodology of this new product. After addressing the feedback from the team, I began documenting what I had done and what had changed in a few slides we can circulate to our Location Planners and other Business Development colleagues. It's important that we keep them in the loop and can collect their ongoing feedback, and any other insight that they have gleaned from our clients challenges and expectations, to make sure our work is always relevant and the best it can be.At the end of the day, the few of us left in the office headed to one of our excellent locals for a pint, and to unwind and catch up on life outside the office. Not all days are the same at GEOLYTIX, but I think last Thursday was a pretty good one 😊Chris Storey, Data Scientist at GeolytixSource: Frank Chamaki via Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "A Day in the Life of a Data Analyst",
      "date": "Tue May 10 2022 21:08:19 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/a-day-in-the-life-of-a-data-analyst/",
      "excerpt": "Ever wondered what the life of a Data Analyst is like at Geolytix is like? Read more to find out...",
      "content": "As a Data Analyst, my days are spent producing global geodata, providing data support for client projects and configuring tables within our databases for use in MAPP. Producing and preparing data is the first step in any project, so it is important for me to be flexible to ensure priority tasks are completed on time.My day can start either in my home office or with a walk (via a coffee shop) to the GEOLYTIX office by Park Square in Leeds city centre. I will first check through my messages and project updates, before opening my to-dos to remind myself of upcoming and ongoing tasks. The first hour or two of my day might be spent responding to ad-hoc data requests from colleagues (or sometimes clients). This could involve scouring the internet for demographic data for a country in Southeast Asia, preparing traffic count data in Central Europe, producing maps in QGIS or simply uploading/restructuring tables in our databases.Before lunch, I attend a meeting for a project which I am providing data or modelling support on. Sometimes these are internal catch ups with my colleagues and other times they involve representatives from the client company. After deciding some next steps, I take a break for lunch and then spend the afternoon completing project work. At a project’s kick-off, I usually create a standard set of tables including demographics, points of interest and an urbanity classification.Meetings such as our Data Science Forum or SQL Training Bursts break up the day with some recaps on project work or analytical techniques. I also try to find some time each week to work on improving my Python and SQL skills, which is important as I am increasingly spending my time supporting the Data Scientists with modelling.If a number of us are in the office, we might end the day with a quick drink at a local pub or bar before my colleagues head to the train station to return to various parts of the North.Catherine Duffy, Data Analyst at GeolytixPhoto by Millo Lin on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix: The Graduate Route",
      "date": "Tue May 10 2022 21:06:19 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/geolytix-the-graduate-route/",
      "excerpt": "Matt joined Geolytix straight from University, after graduating with a Degree in Geography. Here he tells us about his role as a Data Analyst....",
      "content": "It has almost been 9 months since I joined Geolytix as a Data Analyst, having finished my Geography degree in Summer 2021. Although naturally I had a case of the graduate blues, working here has eased the transition into working life, providing a challenging and rewarding experience thus far. Whilst I am based in our Leeds office, I had the opportunity to meet my London-based colleagues within the first few weeks. It was great to put names-to-faces so early on!Right away, I was using a mixture of familiar and unfamiliar approaches (SQL, QGIS, Python) to deal with a variety of requests from the data and business development teams. Initially, some tasks were daunting, and the volume of data was often overwhelming. However, frequent help from colleagues across the team made this manageable. The ability to access genuinely expert help at pretty much the drop of a hat is so valuable, especially to someone like me starting out my career. I don’t have space to write down all the little tips and tricks I’ve learnt since I arrived here…Like at university, I have worked on projects that span over a longer period of time, becoming more familiar with the data that I’m working with. Although, on the contrary, I also respond to ad-hoc requests that are turned over in a matter of days, hours, or even minutes. It’s this diversity of tasks that makes each day so refreshing. Whilst my first 9 months has flown by, I have little doubt that my role at Geolytix will continue to evolve, working with new data, new people and having fun along the way.Matt Shaw, Data Analyst at GeolytixPhoto by Randalyn Hill on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "A Day in the life of a Location Planning Partner",
      "date": "Tue May 10 2022 21:00:04 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/a-day-in-the-life-of-a-location-planning-partner/",
      "excerpt": "Ever wondered what the life of a Location Planner is like at Geolytix is like? Read more to find out...",
      "content": "As with almost any job, there’s no ‘typical day’ for me as a Location Planning Partner (LPP) at GEOLYTIX, and that is part of the fun! A lot depends on the type of project or projects we’re working on, and what stage we’re at. I’m currently part of the team working on a big, months-long project with one of our international customers and we’re still relatively early in the process. The time zone difference means our weekly catch ups tend to be early in the morning, so I start the day with a strong cup of tea and then join the call along with the Data Scientist who is working on the project. We share a progress update on the online demand surface we’re creating and ask lots of questions about their sales and customer data which we’ll be using to build a forecast model. It’s a really collaborative approach, which is great. I enjoy learning about the different ‘quirks’ of each new business or market that we work with and making sure we tailor our approach to meet their needs.The rest of the morning involves a bit of posting on Basecamp (the communication & project management tool we use internally) to make sure everyone’s in the loop on the latest goings on, finishing up a slide deck and chatting to another LPP to share thoughts on the relevant competitor set to use for a project they are working on. I’m working from home today, but I try to get into the London office at least once a week to see some of my lovely colleagues in person and enjoy the Clerkenwell vibe.In the afternoon I have a call with a customer I worked with last year. It’s great to hear how the model we delivered has been helping them feel much more confident in contracting on some new property opportunities and rejecting others. They have a few ideas for some additional support they’d like so I agree to pull together a brief proposal. Later, I log into another customer’s MAPP instance and do some checks to make sure some recent changes work perfectly before we push them live.Before I know it, it’s time to pick up the kids. I do shorter hours, the equivalent of 4 days’ work spread over 5, which is great for balancing work with childcare while the girls are little. Hopefully the older one will have done some geography today so we can bond over the ever-so-catchy Seven Continents song.Alison Moriarty, LPP at GeolytixPhoto by Nick Morrison on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix: The Apprentice Route",
      "date": "Tue May 10 2022 20:51:43 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/geolytix-the-apprentice-route/",
      "excerpt": "Becca joined Geolytix straight from college as a data apprentice. Now a fully qualified Data Analyst, Becca tells us about a day in her role...",
      "content": "I’m sure all of the Data Analysts at Geolytix would agree that not only does every day vary but between us our roles also vary. This blog will hopefully give you a glimpse of a day in my life as a Data Analyst.Differing slightly from the others, I joined via the apprenticeship route straight after finishing sixth form which means I started with no experience and close to no skills to be a Data Analyst, just an interest in Maths and Geography. It’s May 2022, which means it’s over a year since I finished my Data Analytics apprenticeship – I can’t believe how fast time is going!Currently I switch between working from a box room in my family home and working from the office we have in Park Square, Leeds. Today a few of us were going into the office, so I began my day by travelling into Leeds City Centre.My first task of the day was to start reviewing the older drawn retail parks within our Retail Places data set, as part of our annual update. This is a priority at the moment, to ensure the geometries are consistent for this type of Retail Place. This is more of a time-consuming manual task but it’s important that we are continually improving the data we sell.Later that morning I attended our weekly Data Team meeting, where we have a few minutes each to tell everyone what we are working on this week, share any problems and talk about any other business. This helps to keep all team members in the loop and ensures we are communicating regularly when working from home.Updating our UK Supermarket Retail Points dataset is on the schedule for this week too. So after lunch, I began extracting open data from the retailer websites to use for the update, which can be either manually or using python to scrape the store locators. I am definitely a beginner at using python but working alongside Alessandro gives me the opportunity to practice my python skills.This then led me to the end of the day, when I had plans to meet my friend near the office for an overdue catch up over a drink.Rebecca Mellor, Data Analyst at GeolytixPhoto by Randy Tarampi on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "UK Retail Points - Supermarket Locations 2022Q1",
      "date": "Thu Apr 21 2022 13:17:49 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/supermarket-retail-points-v23/",
      "excerpt": "A strong start in the first quarter of 2022 for the UK grocery market. The opening and addition of 196 stores and 48 closures in our latest data release.",
      "content": "Openings and closures of the major supermarket chains from the first quarter of 2022 have been reflected in the latest release of the Geolytix open Retail Points data set. Read more about the background of this data set here.SummaryMorrisons Daily expansion continued - 200th Mccolls to Morrisons Daily conversion opened in March, 78 new Morrisons Daily stores added in this update.27 Tesco Express stores openedM&S changes include M&S Foodhall Finsbury Park that opened in Feb and M&S Woking that opened in March.3 new Iceland Food Warehouses - Livingston, Mansfield & KirkcaldyPlanet Organic - Torrington Place store closed, Broadway Market store opened19 Lidl openings & 5 Aldi openings including 2 new Aldi stores in London (Purley Way & Greenwich High Road)In Nov last year, Sainsburys opened 2 new stores over 50,000 sqft - Sainsburys Colwick & Sainsburys Aylesbury Gatehouse. This update also has 9 new Sainsburys Local stores including 4 in London (Elephant & Castle, Brighton Road in Croydon, Hampstead High Street and Raeburn Avenue in Berrylands).Sainsburys closures include Sainsburys Hanley, Hull Jameson Street Local, Nottingham Carrington Street LocalYou can download our latest release of the Retail Points data set here with all the accompanying documentation. We love hearing about how the data is being used so make sure to tag us on Twitter or LinkedIn.Rebecca Mellor, GEOLYTIXTitle Image: Photo by Scott Evans on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix, Geolytics, Geolytic",
      "date": "Mon Mar 28 2022 09:27:56 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/geolytix-geolytics-geolytic/",
      "excerpt": "“What’s in a name? That which we call a rose / By any other name would smell as sweet”\n- William Shakespeare",
      "content": "We are amongst good company whether it’s pronouncing it AH-dee-das rather than ah-DEE-das, nyke or ni-key, Geo-lie-tix instead of Geo-lit-ix. Or spelling the name wrong, all eyes on the Starbucks cup.In case you’re interested this is how the name Geolytix and the decision on this way of spelling it came about.\"The name Geolytix was somewhat inspired by GeoBusiness and Intalytics (thanks Andy and Bob). Thinking of these two names I got to Geolytics.A quick google search threw up an outfit in the US who had that name and URL’s. Bugger. But I really liked the three syllables and portmanteau of geography and analytics. I then vaguely remembered an article I’d read that X is the coolest letter. It is used to indicate mystery, which incidentally is why the X chromosome is called the X chromosome, kisses, the unknown variable, and most importantly X marks the spot. So GEOLYTIX it was. And then nervously typing it into google...super bonus time... it was a googlewhack!! Geolytix.com, co.uk, .net, .anyfrickinthing.It was meant to be Geolytix we were and still are.\" - Blair Freebairn, CEO"
    },{
      "title": "Scotland's Census 2022",
      "date": "Fri Mar 18 2022 09:59:53 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/scotland-census/",
      "excerpt": "Scotland's Census Day is 20 March 2022.",
      "content": "The census is a snapshot of the nation, it will give an official count of every person and household in the country. Originally planned for 2021, same as England, Wales and Northern Ireland but due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic it was delayed to 2022. Census day for Scotland is Sunday 20th March 2022 but you can complete your response now.Last year Blair shared what the purpose of the census is, why it's important and why it should be filled in by everyone, why we are excited about the census and how at GEOLYTIX we use the census. You can read the answers to all of those questions here. GEOLYTIX will absolutely be processing the Scotland 2022 census and releasing it as open data in a single easy-to-use flat file. Between now and the Scotland results being published, the England, Wales and Northern Ireland 2021 census will be released which we will of course be processing and releasing in a user friendly format as soon as possible."
    },{
      "title": "The Women of Geolytix",
      "date": "Thu Mar 17 2022 10:39:27 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/women-of-geolytix-iwd22/",
      "excerpt": "International Women’s Day is celebrated every year on the 8th March. This year the women of Geolytix shared a more personal side to them through story maps.",
      "content": "International Women’s Day is celebrated every year on the 8th March, this has been since the first gathering in 1911.This global day is powered by the collective efforts by all to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievement of women. The 2022 theme is Break The Bias.To mark the day last week the women of Geolytix published a story map which has a page about each of us; who we are and our experiences both within Geolytix and in our personal lives. It’s great to see our interests brought to life by one of our brilliant developers, Agata, who designed and created them, click on the book icon in the top right corner to select each person. Being part of Geolytix means you can be yourself and you are encouraged to bring your true character to your role. This is embedded in our culture due to all the women and men of Geolytix past, present and future but with a particular thanks to our co-founder and COO Sarah who has cultivated this in the company and leads the way with her natural example.\nThis week we welcome Aimee to our team as a Data Analyst. Aimee is a University of Liverpool graduate in BA Geography and a Master of Geographical Information Systems from the University of Leeds. The dissertation Aimee submitted for the latter course achieved 1st place of the SLA Student Awards 2021. We’re excited to add Aimee's story and extend this invite to the whole team.“IWD is not country, group or organisation specific. It belongs to all groups collectively everywhere.”I have been inspired about what else I could do to raise awareness and take action for equality not only by continuing to champion it and holding us accountable in Geolytix. I have applied to be a volunteer at a Role Model Relay as part of Girls Out Loud.Louise Cross, Data BD at GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "Porto: Bridges, Hills, Port and Viewpoints",
      "date": "Wed Feb 23 2022 23:33:30 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/wheres-lou-porto/",
      "excerpt": "At last, time to dust off the trusty Geolytix tote for my first overseas adventure since the start of 2020. Where's Lou goes international... my first destination: Porto, Portugal's 'second city'.",
      "content": "Porto or Oporto is the second largest city in Portugal, with a population of 250,906 (2020 figures from Geolytix Demographic Data). It's one of the 250 World Heritage Cities, is home to 6 bridges crossing the River Douro and a very hilly city, I thought coming from Sheffield I'd be prepared but this was another level.What a beautiful place. The hills mean opportunity for many fantastic viewpoints, the people are so friendly and it's an ideal location to strike a balance between city and beach.Points of InterestPorto has an array of transport options; Metro, Funicular, Trams and Trains. The tram in Porto is one of the oldest electrified transport systems in Europe and it's certainly worth a ride on one of the three heritage lines still in operation. Whether you plan to take a train journey or not the São Bento station is worth a visit as it might be one of the most beautiful train stations in the world.Rumour although unfounded is that the Livraria Lello bookshop, regularly described as the most beautiful bookshop in the world, inspired J.K.Rowling's Harry Potter books.If you've seen the Travel Man episode I can confirm the sink in Claus Porto fragrance shop is huge.Vila Nova de Gaia, often believed to be part of Porto, is a city in its own right, located on the south side of the Douro facing Porto is where you will find all the Port wine cellars. It's certainly worth doing a tour and tasting, there's plenty to choose from.ShoppingLuckily I enjoy my job because ever since I started working for Geolytix I haven't been able to go anywhere without taking an interest in exploring the retail landscape. Having created Retail Places for Portugal last year I couldn't help but do some ground truthing.The main retail street is the pedestrianised Rua de Santa Catarina where you will find all international brands you would expect: Foot Locker, Massimo Dutti, United Colors of Benetton, Sephora and adidas plus local brands like Ale-Hop who have 200 stores across Portugal and Spain.The dramatically dressed frontage means it's hard to miss otherwise it could easily blend with the other units along this key shopping street, it's the ViaCatarina Shopping centre. Walk in and you enter a large 4 floor shopping centre in the heart of Porto home to 76 stores.Behind Rua de Santa Catarina is LA VIE Porto Baixa, a 6 floor shopping centre with many stores including Decathlon, Starbucks and a floor for the temporary Bolhão market.Adjacent to the modern shops you'll find A Pérola do Bolhão, a traditional grocery store in Downtown open since 1917 with a beautiful façade. It's hard to pass without snapping a picture and intrigue means it's hard not to pop in for a peruse and to soak up the history of how grocery used to be shopped.A Pérola do Bolhão, Downtown, PortoAround the corner is the Mercado do Bolhão which opened in 1914, significant investment has been made as this has been closed for restoration and modernisation since 2018 with plans to reopen the multi-level market this year.Mercado do Bolhão currently under refurbishmentA city that has something for everyone and I loved the contrast of modern and historical, making this a very unique place to explore.Jardins do Palácio de CristalDon't forget to enjoy a few Pastéis de Nata if visiting, I highly recommend those from the Manteigaria, on the corner opposite Mercado do Bolhão.Louise Cross, Product Owner of Global Data at GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "GEOLYTIX and GEOMOB podcast",
      "date": "Tue Feb 15 2022 15:55:48 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/geolytix-and-geomob-podcast/",
      "excerpt": "Blair sat down with Steve of GEOMOB to talk about all things GeoInnovation. Scroll down to listen to the podcast..",
      "content": "I sat down with Steve of GEOMOB to talk about all things GeoInnovation - you can scroll down to listen to the podcast. We spoke about founding and growing Geolytix from a team of 1 to 40 employees in ten years, the pros and cons of open data/open source, and just how the industry has changed in the 15 years since Steve and I worked together at MapInfo. Old friends are irreplaceable. It was a pleasure to shoot the breeze with Steve; an ex-colleague, mentor and friend. Please forgive the errs and ums, this was a totally unscripted chance to explain a bit about the journey we are on at Geolytix.We are growing like crazy, and if you would like to be part of our team that is ‘the best in the world’ do please get in touch.Blair Freebairn, CEO at Geolytix"
    },{
      "title": "UKBIA22 Awards Winner",
      "date": "Mon Feb 14 2022 14:47:30 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/geolytix-is-ukbia22-winner/",
      "excerpt": "Last week we virtually attended the UK Business & Innovation Awards, with our\nfingers and toes crossed ready for the results.\n\nWe are thrilled to have won two fantastic awards - the UK Customer's Choice\nAward and Customer Experience, the latter for our online mapping application \nMAPP [https://geolytix.com/#mapp]. We cannot thank our clients or our team\nenough as without them, we wouldn't be where we are today (as cliched as that\nsounds!) \n\nCustomer Experience\n\nOne of the judges commented that M",
      "content": "Last week we virtually attended the UK Business & Innovation Awards, with our fingers and toes crossed ready for the results.We are thrilled to have won two fantastic awards - the UK Customer's Choice Award and Customer Experience, the latter for our online mapping application MAPP. We cannot thank our clients or our team enough as without them, we wouldn't be where we are today (as cliched as that sounds!) Customer ExperienceOne of the judges commented that MAPP is \"such an excellent piece of tech you and the team have built\" and this really hit home what we are trying to achieve - building a customisable, online tool that is easy to use by everyone, not just those with a background in GIS. \"Despite only being a small, yet perfectly formed team, we have kept innovation at the forefront of our product development to allow us to build something that no one else offers. Our success is a result of our people and truly listening to our customers, whilst ensuring we work with the latest technology to build solutions which not only work, but work at lightening speed.\"Jasmin Fitzpatrick, MAPP Product OwnerCustomer's Choice AwardOur second award was all thanks to our customers. \"It was a fantastic surprise to win the Customer Choice Award, and to know that our customers had taken the time to register and vote for us. Geolytix is built on its people and relationships with our wonderful customers, who we love working with every day. This moment made us truly happy and we are so lucky that our customers continue to make Geolytix a great place to work. A heartfelt thank you to them all.\"Sarah Hitchcock, COO"
    },{
      "title": "Introducing... Locate",
      "date": "Thu Jan 27 2022 10:11:51 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/introducing-locate/",
      "excerpt": "Ever wanted to quickly find the nearest supermarket to your Airbnb? Or the nearest branch that you bank with? We are using the XYZ framework (which underpins MAPP) to allow you to do just that.\n",
      "content": "As you are probably aware by now, we openly release supermarket & banking locations each quarter. But now we are taking it a step further, in creating a web application which allows you to enter a postcode, navigate to your current location, or place a pin on a map and return the closest supermarkets to you within a 10 minute walking distance. Introducing...Locate!Locate, our open application, is incredibly handy for those weekend trips away when you need to stock up on croissants for breakfast, crusty rolls for lunch or red wine for an evening tipple. In fact I recently used it when staying in an Airbnb in Edinburgh for a long weekend away with the girls. Adding a point to the map, quickly allowed me to see that there was a Co-op store located almost directly opposite to where we were staying. It was great to know that we didn’t have to travel far with the wine!I love that the icons are stylised with the supermarket logos, meaning I can quickly see what alternative grocers are available nearby as well.The ‘find my nearest bank’ functionality works slightly differently in that, we have assumed you already have a bank account with a particular provider, so when searching for your nearest branch you can be more specific with your search by clicking on the company's logo. For example, I have a mortgage with Nationwide, so if I wanted to pop out in my lunch break from the Geolytix office in Clerkenwell to enquire about something, I can use Locate to see that the nearest Nationwide branch is located in Angel (and it even plots my walking route for me!).I have greatly enjoyed working with Agata, the lead developer, on this open application and I’m excited for its release. I’m sure there are a loads more use cases that we can add into it; it’s still in development stages at the moment (we will be releasing it very soon) but if you would like to give it a try, and send any feedback or suggestions, please feel free to drop me an email at jasmin.fitzpatrick@geolytix.co.uk and I can send you through the details.\nJasmin Fitzpatrick, MAPP Product Owner at GeolytixImage: Locate (Author's Own)"
    },{
      "title": "Mental Health in the Geolytix workplace",
      "date": "Wed Jan 26 2022 17:10:08 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/mental-health-in-the-geolytix-workplace/",
      "excerpt": "The first week of January saw the MHFA team in Geolytix plan on how we could help embrace and protect mental health amongst the team. Read more to see our plans...",
      "content": "In November four of us at Geolytix qualified as Mental Health First Aiders.In December, realising the pre-Christmas holiday burnout was real, we led the final team meeting of the year. Instead of discussing goals, targets, numbers and stats, we ran a Christmas quiz. A bonus point went to the most festive dressed, meaning when we joined the Google Meets call, we were met with a screen of Christmas hats, obnoxiously loud Christmas jumpers and a festive scarf or two. There was rivalry between players, double checking answers and a lot of new facts learned. But most importantly, there were smiles, a lot of laughter and not a lot of work talk. One of the biggest takeaways from the MHFA course was to remember that we are all humans as well as work colleagues, and it is so easy to forget that. We wanted to encourage a work environment where it’s encouraged to take a lunchtime walk or a morning run; where we can openly discuss what we’re reading or watching on tv; share hobbies that other team members may be completely unaware is up our street. In January, ‘Geolytix Monthly Challenges’ was founded. Each month a different activity will be led by a different team member, and we have volunteers ranging from Yoga to Geocaching, an Easter bake off to a Strava activities competition. January was ‘Let’s get out and about’, centered around Blue Monday. We encouraged the team to leave their desks, no working lunches or commutes from your kitchen table to your sofa. You can tell by the big smiles and sunny views that this really had an impact - I can’t speak for everyone but I was certainly a lot more productive last week, having got my daily steps in the fresh air. Speaking on behalf of the rest of the MHFA at Geolytix, I am so interested in the impact ‘Geolytix Monthly Challenges’ will have on both the team's Mental Health and also productivity. We’re almost a month into 2022 and what a fantastic start to the year it has been so far.Kate McGoldrick, Communications Officer at GeolytixTitle image: Photo by Paul Lincoln on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Blossom in the Year of the Tiger",
      "date": "Wed Jan 26 2022 14:01:09 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/blossom-in-the-year-of-the-tiger/",
      "excerpt": "Coco discusses Chinese New Year traditions, and the slight alterations made throughout the pandemic.",
      "content": "Red Lantern, couplets, paper cutting, cheerful “symphony” with the lyrics of “Gong Xi, Gong Xi”…when you stand on a Chinese street and sense all these elements hugging you - congratulations, you are now entering the biggest annual party of China – the Chinese New Year, also called the Spring Festival.In the city where I live, there’s a very special ceremony during the Chinese New Year; I struggle to get a short catchy translation for it– “Haang Faa Gaai”, which basically means to walk along the flower street/ market.Unlike North China, where people get out on the first day of Chinese New Year to hang around the “temple fair”, the Cantonese in South China kick off the “flower market fair” about one week before the Eve. In Guangzhou particularly, the event of “Haang Faa Gaai” starts only two days before the Eve.Every district has its own flower market - temporary fairs converted from some of the busiest retail streets, sports grounds, or outdoor parks.Just like the Christmas tree is a vital part of Christmas in the western world, three key plants have been leading the decoration of Spring Festival for Cantonese:\nPeach Flower\nKumquat\nDaffodil\n\n Each symbolizes a different thing, such as Love, Wealth and Health.To have a strong energetic plant(s) at home matters so much, as it is relevant to the luck of the whole year! Ideally, you’d want to be there in the market, comparing the flowers/plants shop by shop, bargaining with the vendors patiently and nicely, maybe also taking pictures with family members or friends on the way. Occasionally, you may spot the younger son of your neighbour sitting there waving to you- this is as it’s also a venue allowing the young students to participate in social practice.I still remember one year the flower street was so busy and noisy, I lost my friends in the crowd. When we finally met up again and wanted to retreat from the crowd, it was too late…Literally we walked from 2002 to 2003!Like many other consumer goods, flowers and plants are also available online nowadays. “The Flower Markets in the Cloud” was initiated in Guangzhou last year responding to the Covid New Normal. Each district has built its own wechat mini-program to promote the flower business. The previous centralized flower streets/markets by districts have evolved as multiple mini markets scattered around communities. Some districts even developed their own “Map of Flower Markets”, with the contacts of registered flower operators and payment links attached. You could easily drop by the one close to your neighbourhood for an onsite selection, ask for a delivery, or simply click and collect. This is more a kind of offline-to-online choice comparing to shopping directly from the traditional ecom platforms.At the start of the pandemic, there was a lot of concern and panic about what if people all moved online. However, two years later it has become clear that human beings are not easily satisfied with living solely in a virtual world. Over the past two years, Geolytix has worked with our clients to analyse, quantify, and forecast the evolvements of retail post pandemic, particularly around online offline interaction. It’s such a wonderful thing to experience and explore all the changes and possibilities.With the excitement of opening the Year of Tiger, we are also expecting the full blossom of the O2O retail world, and to share more insights and learnings ongoing with our customers: Gong Xi Fa Cai!Coco Lin, Project Director at GeolytixTitle Photo by Humphrey Muleba on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "UK Supermarket Retail Points - Q4 2021",
      "date": "Wed Dec 22 2021 13:28:59 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/supermarket-retail-points-v22/",
      "excerpt": "The 22nd version and final update for 2021 of UK Supermarket Retail Points is available. Aldi continues it's expansion, Morrisons Daily stores increase and Mere enters the market.",
      "content": "The 22nd version of our open Retail Points data set is now available for download. Read more about the background of this data set here.As Aldi continues their expansion, it has been revealed that they have plans to open 15 new stores by the end of this year. The 15 store openings were kicked off with the new store on Dedworth Road in Windsor opening on 4th November. Over 70 new Morrisons Daily stores have been added to the data set this quarter. This doesn’t come as a surprise, as earlier this year it was announced that 300 McColl’s stores were to be converted into Morrisons Daily stores within the next 3 years. The roll out of rebranded stores has had a successful first year as they opened the 100th store conversion this month in Ellesmere Port.The newest addition to the list of retailers in the data set is Mere. Svetofor is a Russian discount supermarket that has 3,200 stores worldwide and expanded to Europe in 2018, operating under the name Mere. The company already has stores in Germany, Poland, Latvia, Ukraine, Romania and Lithuania and is expanding into the UK, Spain, Italy, Greece and Bulgaria. Mere opened their first UK store in Preston on 14th August 2021, which is now included in the latest release of Retail Points. They also have plans to open a further three stores in the UK this year, including a store in Castleford and also stores in Mold and Caldicot in Wales. You can download our latest release of the Retail Points data set here with all the accompanying documentation. We love hearing about how the data is being used so make sure to tag us on Twitter or LinkedIn.Rebecca Mellor, GEOLYTIXTitle Image: Photo by Tara Clark on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "My work experience week at Geolytix",
      "date": "Tue Nov 30 2021 12:34:08 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/my-work-experience-week-at-geolytix/",
      "excerpt": "Gagan Singh Virk joined us in October on a work experience placement from NewVic college. Here he details his week with us...",
      "content": "Geolytix approached my college with the aim of forming a partnership to offer work experience opportunities. I was the first, chosen as I’m doing a computer science course.I made my way to the office on my first morning and met some of the team. I got stuck in straight away and got to edit a blog, with Kate McGoldrick, the company's communication officer. Kate also took me through the company's social media strategy. I then moved on to editing - Kate threw me in the deep end and I edited a video for Geolytix MAPP, after she showed me the basics of how to use the software. She also introduced me to the basics of Geolytix MAPP.Tuesday was an earlier start and Sarah Hitchcock, the company’s Chief Operating Officer took me through a case study about Cook, and shared that as a company they help retailers to find a good place to set up their shops. They offer their own in-house software called Geolytix MAPP. MAPP can be used by these companies to see their catchments and where their target market is best located. The companies working with Geolytix pay to use the MAPP software and in return get access for unlimited users. They can unlock more functionality and modelling if they pay a little bit more.Right after that Dennis Bauszus, the Geolytix web solutions engineer, talked to me about the fundamentals of the coding that forms the XYZ framework, the foundation of Geolytix MAPP.On Wednesday I was with Oliver Hall, the company’s Data analyst / Developer who showed me the behind the scenes of MAPP explaining how the code functions. I was let loose and got to configure MAPP as I added layers to a client instance. I really enjoyed the coding of new catchments and I got to add a population barrier and assign specifically requested colours. He also explained what some of the functions did. The day ended with a Linkedin session - Sarah helped me make my Linkedin profile and explained what I can do with it and how I can sell myself to companies.Thursday I had a Python course with Christoph Mulligann, who explained the different types of ways to use Python and how he uses it. I got to experiment with all the different Python functions. And later on I had a meeting with Robert Hurst, the developer responsible for all the deployments and testing, who explained new things to me about the framework; he first explained how to deploy new code and what the outcome was supposed to be. Rob let me experiment, the hands-on experience was great.I just wanted to say thank you to the whole Geolytix team for making me feel welcomed, they were all super nice. Hopefully we see each other again and thank you for making this a fun and enjoyable experience. I will highly recommend Geolytix to future NewVic students.Gagan Singh Virk"
    },{
      "title": "Studying through a pandemic",
      "date": "Thu Nov 25 2021 09:47:39 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/studying-through-a-pandemic/",
      "excerpt": "Last Thursday was postgraduate results day at the University of Leeds, and although graduation is still a long way away (thanks to Covid-19 I haven’t even had my undergraduate graduation ceremony yet), it feels like a perfect time to reflect on this chapter of my life.",
      "content": "Unsurprisingly, the past 14 months since I started my MSc in Data Science and Analytics have been far from normal; all lectures, practicals, group projects, exams and social events were conducted entirely online. This inevitably had its challenges, from trying to troubleshoot code with demonstrators via screen sharing to preparing presentations with peers that I’d never met and were sometimes in completely different time zones. On the other hand, short, pre-recorded lectures and the ability to go back and pause demonstrations to test things myself definitely made the course more accessible, which I appreciated having entered the course with a background in geography rather than maths, statistics or computing like most of my peers.Since completing an industrial placement at Sainsbury’s during my undergraduate degree, I have always appreciated opportunities to combine my academic pursuits with an involvement in industry. From June to mid-September, this meant splitting my time between my research project and working part-time at Geolytix. My research project itself was a collaboration with HERE Technologies, utilising their road and public transport network data to evaluate the accessibility of COVID-19 vaccination sites in England. Obviously, this area of research was (and is) extremely topical, which made for an interesting summer of reading and data analysis. I was then invited to present my findings back to HERE Technologies as part of their GIS Day schedule, which was extremely rewarding.In conclusion, if I were to be asked whether I would recommend balancing work and studying in this way, I wholeheartedly would if the person asking believed it was right for them. However, as Oli detailed in his blog on balancing the two, it is important to create a routine that helps maintain that balance. If any geographers out there are thinking about dabbling in data science and analytics, I would recommend checking out online resources or books on the topics that interest you first. Then, if you’re willing to make the commitment and think a more formal teaching style is for you, don’t be scared to step out of your comfort zone and look into the available data science (or geographic data science) courses that are out there. Finally, would I recommend completing a Masters degree in a pandemic? Absolutely not! However, I think that universities and their academic staff can take a lot from this experience to help them design a more hybrid approach to teaching, that makes the content more accessible for everyone.Catherine Duffy, Data Analyst at GeolytixPhoto by Sharon McCutcheon on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Becoming a micro multinational",
      "date": "Thu Nov 25 2021 09:44:16 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/becoming-a-micro-multinational/",
      "excerpt": "Over the years, Geolytix has grown internationally. Ben Purple, our Business Director, tells how our growth wasn't exactly how we originally envisioned. ",
      "content": "When I joined Geolytix back in 2018, we were embarking on our International journey, with a clear strategic plan to focus on a small number of key markets – the UK (obviously), and China where we had just persuaded Coco to lead Geolytix in establishing an operation, and Japan where Luke had recently joined us. 3 and a half short years on – Coco and Luke have become firmly established members of the Geolytix family, and we couldn’t wish for better people to fly the flag in China and Japan respectively. But how did that strategic plan to focus on a small number of key markets work out?It’s fair to say that things didn’t quite pan out the way we planned they would – and we couldn’t be happier about that.The most recent tally of countries we’ve worked in over the past 3 years is now 62. Whilst mapping demographics in Armenia, or modelling demand in Costa Rica, or building Retail Places in India weren’t part of the original plan, we’re now in the amazing position of having built out datasets, and experience, in places we never imagined we’d have been asked to.Just need things to get back to normal now, dust the passport off, and get that Costa Rica site visit in now…no substitute to seeing things on the ground!Ben Purple, Director at Geolytix Photo by Andrew Stutesman on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "10% of our team are now Mental Health First Aiders",
      "date": "Tue Nov 23 2021 10:23:48 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/4-of-our-team-our-now-mental-health-first-aiders/",
      "excerpt": "Donna, Rachel, Josh and Kate recently qualified as Mental Health First Aiders. Here they talk about their reasons for qualifying and their plans for supporting the team at Geolytix. ",
      "content": "On Friday 5th November, 10% of Geolytix qualified as Mental Health First Aiders, with The Blackbox Approach. An intensive two day course covering all the basics, arming the attendees with knowledge, skills and confidence to offer support and assistance to those who may need it. Whilst initially Donna, Kate, Rachel and Josh attended the course to provide support for the Geolytix team, it quickly became apparent that their newly acquired skills could (and would) be used outside of work too. Below, the four speak a little about their experience of the MHFA course, and how, as a team, they plan to support a safe working environment at Geolytix.DonnaMental health has always been important to me. Not just my own but that of others. Whilst there is still some stigma surrounding mental health this is definitely reducing and there is a lot more awareness surrounding the topic. I have learnt over time that the only way to understand - or at least try to - is to arm ourselves with knowledge and empathy when we hear about people struggling or their circumstances.Geolytix have always been an understanding employer and regularly check in to make sure that everyone is coping; they understand that people’s stress levels are different at different times and that day-to-day life, along with workloads, can cause people to feel under pressure.When my targets were discussed at the beginning of the year, Sarah could see how much mental health and raising awareness around mental well being meant to me; so it was incorporated into my targets that I would do the Mental Health First Aid Course and become a point of contact within Geolytix. Little did I know that within a few months a small team of people within Geolytix who had the same passion around that would come together. Kate, Josh, Rachel & I have really embraced this and we are so glad that we were able to do the course and that we are actively encouraged to build on what we have learnt.The course we did was just brilliant, empowering us in a way I didn’t think was possible from a 2 day course. It taught us about the different types of mental health issues, the language to use when approaching and talking about mental health so that people feel comfortable. It taught us that by asking questions, you actually encourage and give people permission to open up about struggles and we were given suitable next step advice if we found ourselves in a situation that needed it. I really feel that we will use this a lot, not just in the work environment but in life too. I am so grateful I was given this opportunity.RachelThere are so many reasons as to why someone would choose to train as a mental health first aider. My main motivation was to help reduce stigmas and breakdown outdated stereotypes surrounding mental health, but to also raise awareness of mental health issues and ensure mental health is given the same attention as physical health. I believe that with greater awareness people will not only be able to better understand their own mental health but will feel more comfortable talking about it and seeking the appropriate help and support.Through my own personal experience with poor mental health, I know how much of a struggle it can be to open-up and ask for help. However, having someone there to listen to me non-judgmentally was a huge help and with this training it has made it easier for me to now be that listening ear or to signpost professional support. We are not experts or counsellors, but just like physical first aiders, we are here to be the first point of contact to help. I know that the knowledge and skills that I learnt from this course will make a massive difference in both my work life and personal life, and that is invaluable to me.The Geolytix Mental Health First Aider’s have a vast range of ideas that we would like to implement over the coming months to help colleagues to address their mental wellbeing. I am really looking forward to launching our ’12 keys to happiness’ platform, where a different skill or hobby will be shared each month allowing the team to take some time out for themselves to learn something new.JoshI’ve been passionate about learning about mental health ever since I first ran for Welfare Officer in my local physics society at university, and I was very excited to be able to take part in the MHFA training on behalf of Geolytix. As we’re a rapidly growing company, I felt it was extremely important for me to be able to help support the mental health of both current and future colleagues, and ensure that everyone feels that they are able to speak up, either publicly or privately, if they were experiencing a mental health issue.The course itself was by no means exhaustive (there’s only so much you can cover in two days!) but I felt it gave us an excellent grounding on how to best offer help during an immediate mental health crisis, as well as how to support the people around us over a longer period of time. I’m particularly looking forward to developing and curating a list of resources to make available to the team, culminating in running some fundraising events in Mental Health Awareness Week next May.KateComing from a hospitality background, where the attitude surrounding mental health and the support I was offered was notoriously bad, it has always been important to me to learn about mental health and how I can offer support and guidance to those who need it - including myself. So when Geolytix offered for us to go on a Mental Health First Aid course, I jumped at the opportunity. I joined Geolytix during the Christmas lockdown 2020/21, instantly going from working in a bustling restaurant, to a makeshift desk in my kitchen. I didn’t meet the team in person until July; 7 months of Basecamp messages and google meets, that were all work orientated. I didn’t know anything about my team on a human level, and that really took a toll on me. Working from home can become quite isolating and affects your mental health. The first half an hour of the MHFA we spent introducing ourselves, but instead of saying our name and what our role is, we were asked ‘what’s the view out of your window and a positive thing that has happened to you recently’? This stuck with me the whole two days; I felt I had connected with the group on a human level, not just our work-selves.I am very excited to be part of the Geolytix Mental Health First Aid team, not only being there to offer support, guidance and that all important ear to listen, but also break down this stigma society has built around mental health. I am fortunate to work for a company that has not only embraced but encouraged learning around mental health, and we have some fantastic plans in place for the new year. I am particularly looking forward to starting the ‘Humans Of Geolytix’ weekly drop-ins, 30 minutes where we can jump on a call together and talk about anything other than work - what we did on the weekend, what book we’re reading, or a tv series we’ve just started… essentially what makes us human.Donna Kirkton, Office Executive at GeolytixRachel Wyles, Associate at GeolytixJosh Reynolds, Data Scientist at GeolytixKate McGoldrick, Communications Officer at GeolytixPhoto by Marcel Strauß on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Pop Up Horsham –helping pandemic entrepreneurs reinvent the high street.",
      "date": "Thu Nov 18 2021 10:57:10 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/helping-pandemic-entrepreneurs-reinvent-the-high-street/",
      "excerpt": "Kate visited Pop Up Horsham, a council led scheme aimed at helping both reinvent the high street whilst supporting local small businesses created during Lockdown...",
      "content": "2nd November 2021 saw the opening of Pop Up Horsham, a Sussex Council Pilot Scheme aimed at helping young, independent local businesses to thrive on the high street.I took this photo the day after the store opened, which gives credit to the team and independent stall holders for making an impact from day one. Walking past two weeks later, a few new stalls have cropped up, specialising in Christmas decorations!The Covid-19 pandemic has altered the retail landscape up and down the country, but there has been one positive trend – a surge in independent business start-ups; according to the Financial Times, the pandemic ignited the UK’s strongest start-up boom in a decade, with Horsham being rated as one of the UK’s top hotspots for entrepreneurs.The Pop Up Horsham scheme kills two birds with one stone; firstly, the initiative supports those who have started a new business in the past 18-months by providing them with the opportunity to ‘try out’ a physical retail premise. Whilst the Pop Up scheme itself has rented the council owned building for 6 months, independent businesses can rent a space in the building for a length of time that suits them – at a discounted rental rate. Speaking to one of the staff in store, currently they have independent businesses renting space from 1 month to the full 6 months -this flexibility really places weighting on the ‘try out’ element, as moving from an online to physical store presence is a big step for many entrepreneurs.As well as benefitting from retail trade, participants in the scheme are also able to take part in a range of business training programmes, held at the Pop Up hub. Run by experienced training partners, independent local business owners are equipped with business skills, hopefully maximising their success and survival.The key word here is ‘entrepreneurs’, as the Pop Up scheme is not just aimed at start-ups of businesses with physical products. The scheme is also helping local entrepreneurs who want to try out a high street space for activities ranging from Yoga and Zumba fitness, to art classes and even business meetings – all held in the function room upstairs.Charley Crocker, Pop Up Horsham Founder and Project Manager, says that providing shop floor retail experience and business coaching all within a “supportive network of like-minded start-ups and businesses, coupled with one-to-one personal mentoring” provides the foundation for start-ups to make that step onto the high street.Secondly, the scheme helps to reinvent the high street, bringing life back into previously vacant retail spaces. The retail unit, located on West Street, is in a prime location, in close proximity to Swan Walk Shopping Centre and two of the main central car parks. As shown in the map below, East Street experiences high mobility levels, encouraging for both the high street itself, and the Pop Up scheme.Using Geolytix MAPP and data I was able to view mobility in Horsham Town centre, demarcated in the red. The location of the Pop Up store is seen in the black circle.The current space, located on West Street, is now full of life; an eclectic window display featuring items from all the stalls adds not only colourful imagery to the high street, but a curb-appeal that is attracting attention. Since it opened, the shop has been bustling with attention from both independent retails and customers alike. Bringing life back into the building, which is currently full of an array of stalls, from skin care, to paintings, children’s clothes to brownies and plants, having a space that is in use is arguably more appealing to potential renters than a vacant space.The images above were taken one day after opening; multiple stalls held by independent local start-ups ranging from clothes and homeware, to arts and plants. The shop felt organised and purposeful, and the business owners were there to talk about their products, and did so with passion and pride.This is a hopefully secondary impact of the scheme; High Streets have seen vacancy rates rise during the pandemic and this scheme also allows Horsham council to advertise their vacant space.The council building used at the moment is both a fantastic size and location, and as seen on our map above is at a focal point of mobility on the high street. If the retail space is rented in 6 months, the scheme will simply relocate to another vacant council building, continuing to support local start -ups whilst showcasing the retail space on offer in Horsham. Hopefully this scheme is a success and similar schemes will be set up in other high streets in Sussex and then further afield.Kate McGoldrick, Communications Officer at Geolytix Title Photo: Taken by Kate McGoldrick, day after store opening"
    },{
      "title": "Queen's Award 2021 - a Windsor Castle celebration",
      "date": "Thu Nov 11 2021 17:03:31 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/queens-award-2021-a-windsor-castle-celebration/",
      "excerpt": "Last night we were invited to Windsor Castle to attend a celebratory reception for the Queens Award. ",
      "content": "I’ve been lucky to have some wonderful opportunities being part of Geolytix. Sipping Veuve Clicquot at Windsor Castle and meeting Prince Charles is certainly up there! Last night the Queen's Award winners from the last 2 years were invited to a celebratory reception at Windsor Castle. If you’re a Geolytix follower you might remember our excitement at winning the Queen's Award for International Trade back in April. We were thrilled to win our second award (the last for Innovation).The Award is proudly on display in our London OfficeSix years ago we set ourselves a Big Hairy Audacious Goal, when we were a team of 9 people working in London for UK customers, and this is it:\nWhen location matters, organisations turn to us first.\nWe are the best in the world and lead our field. We are respected, trusted and unique. We work globally, across industries, public and private sectors.\nWe have made spatial analytics indispensable in decision making in large and medium organisations and in the public sector.\n\nIn 2021 we are a team of 40. We've done projects in over 50 different countries across Europe, Asia Pacific, the Americas, Africa, and the Middle East. So we’re on our way to achieving that vision!People are at the heart of what we do. Our deep expertise across all areas of location planning is what makes us special. In our team we have the former leaders of in house location planning and online operations teams at major retailers in the UK, China and Australia, so we understand what it's like to walk in our customer's shoes.The team members that created and develop our MAPP tool, our modelling experts, our data scientists, all of them are experts in their field. And we are training the next generation in all our specialties.Speaking to one of the judges of the Queen's Awards last night, it’s the applicant’s passion that’s a key factor in selecting the winners. There’s certainly plenty of that here at Geolytix!I’d love to be sharing glamorous photos from inside the reception…all that shiny gold leaf and metal armour…twinkly glasses and royal brocade. Sadly no photos are allowed inside and my blurry, in-the-dark photos from outside didn't make the cut!Wearing heels for the first time in two years was the main topic of conversation in the queueSuffice to say it was indeed very impressive! As was the diversity of award winners. It must be fascinating to read all the applications, I heard about electric engines, perfumiers and children’s learning apps.It’s been a long time for most of us since we last attended a business function, and last night has really given me a new enthusiasm. How very intriguing to hear everyone’s stories, to hear the highs and lows for people and in businesses I wouldn’t normally have contact with. It felt like the world was starting to emerge again after the hiatus of Covid. What an inspiring service the Queen's Award reception has been. We couldn't resist a spot of sightseeing too! So thank you, to the 5 layers of judges (!) who thought our application was meritorious, to the Queen and her team for hosting the event, to our customers who allow us into their worlds, and of course, to team Geolytix, who put in all the hard work day in and day out to make our business a successful and exciting one. I feel very proud today!Samantha Colebatch, Commercial Director at Geolytix "
    },{
      "title": "My Reading Roadtrip with Geolytix",
      "date": "Tue Nov 09 2021 09:44:24 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/my-reading-roadtrip-with-geolytix/",
      "excerpt": "In September, back when days were longer and the weather a little warmer, Jasper and a few of the team headed out to Reading for a site visit. He writes about the day below... ",
      "content": "In my final month at Geolytix, alongside Blair, Sarah, and Neil, I went to Reading for a site visit. For them it was their first since before the pandemic. For me, currently interning at Geolytix during my Gap Year, it was my first ever!I’m currently looking at the micro-factors of certain pubs within the Mitchells & Butlers (M&B) brand. I’ve spent tens of hours staring at Google Street View and ‘driving’ past Premium Country Pubs as well as Vintage Inns. But oh, how nice it was to see some in the flesh!We started off in Reading town centre looking at both the branded and non-branded steakhouses / pubs / bars that they operate in the area. Not only did this enable us to look at some of the factors that make the more urban-centric pubs more appealing to a passer-by (such as the transparency of the façade’s windows) but also to check the accuracy of Geolytix’s food and beverage hubs. As it turns out – extremely accurate. 5 varied M&B sites and many competitors later we started to head further out (after a few missed turns and getting confused by Reading’s one way system…no names mentioned).The route to Caversham beckoned with a Toby Carvery and then a Sizzling as well as Premium Country Pub – one that I had virtually looked at a couple of days earlier. A physical site visit is far superior to photos and reviews on Google, especially for interior factors such as natural light, furnishings, and layout. Though, obviously not able to visit all 1600 or so locations, I have discovered that 360° walkthroughs work as a great guide for exploration.However, all teenagers at heart and starting to get peckish, we set off for lunch via a Grade II listed, regency style Harvester (for information, the propensity index we calculate using demographic profiling by brand shows this location is well suited to a Harvester with an index over 100). Of course, for lunch we had to try M&B’s range so off we went to a beautiful, thatched Vintage Inn set by a small tributary of the Thames, sitting in the garden and watching the narrowboats pass by.Then it was back to work with trips to a Stonehouse Pizza & Carvery, another Toby Carvery and finally an Oak Tree Pub.In simple terms - a fantastic and informative day out covering 12 of M&B’s brands. What better way to hit your 10,000 daily steps target!Jasper Sodha, Intern at Geolytix "
    },{
      "title": "Bonfire Societies - a Sussex phenomenon?",
      "date": "Fri Nov 05 2021 09:55:04 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/bonfire-societies-a-sussex-phenomenon/",
      "excerpt": "Remember, remember the 5th of November...\n\nRealising her bonfire night was a Sussex tradition, Kate talks about the world of Bonfire Societies, using MAPP to look at the possible impact of the festivities road closures. ",
      "content": "Growing up in Sussex, I genuinely believed that Bonfire Societies were up and down the country; I believed that on November 5th everyone would line the streets to watch the Bonfire parades, waiting eagerly to see what the effigy would be that year – in recent years the effigies were announced a few days before, so the surprise on the evening was somewhat flattened.It must be noted that Bonfire Night in Sussex isn’t really about the fireworks that round off the end of the night’s celebration. The main event are the society parades. Historically, each town in Sussex would have it’s own Bonfire Society who would raise money throughout the year (and on the night) to fund both the event itself, and donate to their chosen charity; we were part of the Lindfield Bonfire Society growing up, who raised money for various children’s charities.The map below shows the Sussex Bonfire Society still active (a few have closed or combined over the years). The most well known is Lewes, marked as a blue triangle – give it a google for some amazing photos of past parades - see image below for an example.The parades themselves were a thing of wonders. Societies split into segments and represent themselves in each town, so every parade was a concoction of different uniforms, banners, burning barrels and drums. Children and babies were welcomed in the parade, with parents often draping fairy lights over prams; the younger children would hold flaming wooden batons, too young to wheel the burning barrels. It was tradition. Marching bands from each society would be dotted along the parade, and the slow-moving procession would walk down the town streets, crowds eagerly awaiting the arrival of the effigy. Lindfield Bonfire ParadeThe above image is of Lindfield Bonfire Society, which was the parade I grew up attending. The effigies of that year would always be kept top secret - we had family friends on the society committee and they would never spill the beans!The procession would finish at the bonfire; a mound of wooden crates erected in the days before the 5th November, often on the town green (think massive field), the society members would throw their burning batons and barrels onto the bonfire, along with the effigy; traditionally, there would also always be a Guy Fawkes effigy ready and waiting to burn on the bonfire. The evening would finish off with the fireworks, where often, no expense was spared. The crowds would gather, parents with hot chocolate or mulled wine (it is only 50 days till Christmas), children with flashing toys and donuts, all bought from the stalls lining the parade route – a very lucrative business opportunity.The reason I write this is because Bonfire Night was such a huge part of my childhood, and I was genuinely surprised when writing this blog that it’s a Sussex phenomenon. Due to COVID, the parades in 2020 were cancelled, and so this year I have a feeling they will be bigger and better. This will wreak havoc on the road networks however, especially around Lewes (marked with a blue triangle on the map above- created on QGIS).All roads within the orange lines are shut on the day of the bonfire parade.Roads surrounding the town – enclosed within the box in the map above - are closed from 16:45 with local residents told to ‘get their vehicles home before 4:30pm to avoid any road closures in place’. Within our Road & Network GeoData pack, we have Road Traffic data, modelling UK road traffic volumes. We have written a blog on creating this data pack here. Looking at the roads around Lewes in MAPP, our online mapping tool, we can see that the average daily traffic count across all roads that will be closed ranges from 2,000 to 25,000. Closing these roads does have quite an impact, with residents having little option but to stay in Lewes for the evening; the choice to either stay at home or join in the local bonfire festivities.If you are looking for a fun way to celebrate Bonfire Night this year and are intrigued by the curiosity of Sussex Bonfire Societies, Lewes or Lindfield would be the events I would recommend – although it may have to be an all-afternoon event (and yes, I may be biased!)Kate McGoldrick, Communications Officer at GeolytixTitle Image: Photo by Jamie Street on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Opening up the World of Location Planning with COOK",
      "date": "Tue Nov 02 2021 10:40:27 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/opening-up-the-world-of-location-planning-with-cook/",
      "excerpt": "COOK approached us, keen to open more shops and concessions; they requested a toolset that would help support them in understanding and analysing the potential of new locations. Challenge accepted, we got to work... ",
      "content": "At Geolytix, our #1 value is People. This is one of the reasons I was delighted when COOK got in touch to see how we could help them. “We believe people are amazing” stands out in their driving purpose. One of COOK’s aims is to give good cooks time off from the kitchen; to cook using the same ingredients and techniques that a good cook would use at home, so that all their food looks and tastes amazing. They do this by cooking how you would at home and freezing to preserve. COOK have 92 standalone shops across the UK with proportionately more locations in the South. Their network is supported by 3000 or so freezers stocked in over 800 concessions across the nation, predominantly in independent and cooperative retailers. This gives access to 50% of the population within a 10 minute drive.Map of Cook stores & Concession storesCOOK are keen to push this further by opening more shops and concessions and wanted a toolset to support in understanding the potential for new locations.Our challenge was set:Understand the customer\n\nWhat type of people are more likely to buy COOK products\nHow does this differ by those that get it delivered and those that visit the shop\n\nUnderstand the catchment\n\nHow far do people travel to a COOK shop?\nAre Customers more likely to get COOK products delivered online if they live nearer to the shop\n\nUnderstand the potential of a new location\n\nWhat does the catchment look like?\nHow does it score?\nHow does it compare to the estate and similar shops?\n\nMake it easy to access real-time information for everyone\nUnderstanding the customerCOOK already know a lot about their customers. Collating their anonymised data on where their customers live, allows us to strip out the effect of location. Does a certain type of person shop at COOK more because they love the brand, or because they live nearby? We were able to provide an index for age, affluence and other geodemographic measures.Understanding the catchmentUsing COOK’s customer data it’s possible to create decay curves, which show how far customers are willing to travel to a shop. We do this by different urbanities, as rural folk are generally happy to travel further. We were particularly interested in this; we have done it umpteen times for the grocers we work with, but never for a retailer where their entire range is frozen.We assumed that the online customer decay curve would be a flatter profile – this is to be expected as the customer doesn’t have to travel, but also because the products can travel in refrigerated vans. This was true, but as we often see an online halo does exist.80% catchments80% catchments highlight the area around a shop where COOK’s top 80% of sales come from. This strips out tourists and one-off visits to highlight the typical extent of travel, and potential catchment for each store. It also helps in visualising whether 2 stores have a high level of overlap and potential cannibalisation. Here we see that the Cook shops around Guildford have been well located. An obvious question from looking at the map is around the sales potential in Woking and possible cannibalisation on the 3 surrounding shops.80% catchments for COOK ShopsGeolytix MAPPTo date over 20 COOK colleagues have signed up to Geolytix MAPP, across a number of different functions. COOK have embraced our system (thank you!), with different people asking for the addition of different operational boundaries or different elements in the reporting – each request making it more useful for everyone.Hot spot propensity mapping layers, along with demographic reporting for any site allow potential leads to be viewed instantly. Automatic links to real-time sales reporting allows recent performance for existing shops and new shops to be accessed wherever colleagues are, in the office or out in the field.Potential Hot Spot MappingChris Portwood, Chief Sales Officer, says:“Geolytix has helped us sophisticate our thinking around new space and although we are still learning their system, we have already seen that the rich functionality will undoubtedly help us to make better expansion decisions in the future. They are also great to work with as nothing is too much trouble”.The next tools in the COOK toolbox are a benchmark (analogue) model, and an overlap report, to understand cannibalisation of the existing estate. Watch out for the next blog instalment for more information.Sarah Hitchcock, Chief Operating Officer at Geolytix"
    },{
      "title": "The top 10 things I learned on the ten-year Geolytix journey",
      "date": "Thu Oct 28 2021 09:29:57 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/the-top-10-things-i-learned-on-the-ten-year-geolytix-journey/",
      "excerpt": "Blair, our CEO has reflected on his 10 years at Geolytix, and has jotted down 10 things that he has learned in the past decade. ",
      "content": "\nTo travel fast go alone, to travel far go together\nEveryone is on a journey; maybe struggling, maybe rocking it, probably both\nEvery client organisation has its own peculiarities, it is what makes working for them interesting\nYou can win or lose business for reasons within domains you did not even know existed\nFor everything you do, remember there are people who can do it better than you\nSmall personal kindnesses are remembered for months and years, sometimes decades\nOver delivering (sometimes!) is good, it can make you feel great about yourself too\nDoing something is far more impressive than talking about something\nAsking difficult questions is easy\nSaying no is fine, but make sure you explain why and offer a path to yes\n\nThese are my top-of-mind thoughts (platitudes!) jotted down in 4 minutes when reflecting on my journey, other colleagues I'm sure will have very different thoughts. Blair Freebairn, CEO at Geolytix "
    },{
      "title": "10 new GeoData packs in 10 countries",
      "date": "Thu Oct 28 2021 09:19:23 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/10-new-countries-geodata/",
      "excerpt": "Not only are we celebrating 10 years of Geolytix this month we have been busy created new GeoData for 10 countries.",
      "content": "Ten years ago Geolytix started out with a UK GeoData offer which we continue to update, enhance and deliver, to both our original and new customers. Over the last decade we have also been working on expanding our GeoData offer globally. I have loved being involved with growing this part of the company, not only does it allow us support our clients who operate in multiple markets in a consistent manner, it also introduces us to local brands operating in these locations and we love solving the challenges data in other countries brings.1. Australia - PostalFor the 2016 Australian Statistical Geography Standard (ASGS) 2,670 Postal Areas were defined. In the 2011 version these were built from SA1, in 2016 they have been built from MeshBlock. We now have the latest Australian Census from 2016 at Postal Area (POAs). Australia conduct a Census every 5 years, the most recent was taken on 10th August 2021, we look forward to processing up the release in June 2022. We have a wide ranging GeoData set for Australia which we will be updating over the next 2 months.2. Costa Rica - UrbanityAn urbanity classification (1-7), ranging from major centre to rural, assigned to 500m hex grids covering the country. 25% of the land in Costa Rica is conservation, with 12 ecological zones and over 100 national parks, reserves, refuges and protected lands.This is helpful to visualise how urban/rural somewhere is which will affect how people interact with their retail environment. Also used to help define distance decay measures when modelling catchment extents.3. Indonesia - TransportIndonesia spans over 5000km from east to west and the country has three different time zones. We have mapped the train stations across Indonesia, the 13 Jakarta Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) part of phase 1 of the system and the 18 Greater Jakarta Light Rail Transit (LRT) stations serving the 3 lines of the network. 4. Japan - POIFor Japan we have a number of our GeoData packs including Admin Boundaries, Demographics, Retail Places, Urbanity. We have added 4* and 5* Hotel locations to our Points of Interests for the country. April is a fantastic month to visit Japan to see the Visualising Sakura (cherry-blossom).Photo by Galen Crout on Unsplash5. Mexico - AffluenceWe have created an affluence index at AGEB (Area Geo-Estadistica Basica) and 500m hex grid. With different data available across different markets we utilise what's available to create an affluence index. For Mexico we use education level, household utilities, access to internet. We are also creating a global index which is comparable to other countries using consistent inputs such as statistics released from the World Bank. It’s easy to see the dollar sign ($) and think of the US dollar. But it was the Mexican peso that first used the $ symbol for their coins.6. New Zealand - Retail PlacesRetail Places identify areas where potential customers are attracted to interact with a retail environment. Retail Venues sit within these to specifically define a concentration of retail within a retail place. We have extended our coverage to include over 120 named, classified and scored places in New Zealand. Hopefully you don't have to carry too much shopping if you live on Baldwin Street, Dunedin; the steepest road in the world (19 degrees).7. Panama - Retail POIA retail universe for Panama has been collected which includes Banks (Banco General, Banco Nacional, Banistmo), Department Stores (Felix, La Onda, Madison), Fashion (bbb, Calvin Klein, El Campeón, H&M, Kenneth Cole, Tommy Hilfiger, Zara), Leisure (Cinépolis), Opticians (Óptica López), Pharmacies (Arrocha, FarmaValue), Supermarkets (Justo & Bueno, Rey, Riba Smith, Súper 99, Xtra).Panama City (Photo by Darren Miller on Unsplash)8. Puerto Rico - HospitalsPuerto Rico is a commonwealth governed by the United States and is therefore not a country. The island covers 5,515 square miles (9,104 sq km) and there are approximately 270 miles of beaches. Along with creating Demographics at Blockgroup, Retail Places, Retail POI and Urbanity across the country, we have mapped the 52 hospitals across Puerto Rico.9. Thailand - DemographicsOur Thailand Subdistricts demographics have been updated to reflect the 2020 population count of 66,186,727. There are officially more women than men in the country. Bangkok has the largest and Ranong has the smallest population out of the 77 provinces. Thailand is made up of 1,430 islands.10. UK - Bank Branch LocationsContributing to the open data landscape continues to be incredibly important to us, a month ago we released UK Bank Branch Data, you can read more and download here.As with the image above, here is an example of 'penguinness' - where those banks that are in the central location are those that survive, with the outliers closing firstThe ten countries and selected GeoData packs are merely highlights of an ever growing list of countries and data we have available to license to use in your systems or within our web-based MAPP tool. I can't see what countries we have on the list next month. Please get in contact if you would like to know more.Louise Cross, Product Owner of Data at GeolytixTitle Image: Gaia, created by artist Luke Jerram, was displayed as part of Leeds Light Night in Oct 2021. Visited and photo by Lou"
    },{
      "title": "10 years of success stories",
      "date": "Wed Oct 27 2021 16:25:45 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/10-years-of-success-stories/",
      "excerpt": "Geolytix wouldn't be successful without its clients; to celebrate 10 years, we thought we would look back on 10 of our UK projects that have helped us become the company we are today. ",
      "content": "Speaking to Blair and Sarah (our CEO and COO respectively) last week, we got chatting about whether 10 years ago, they saw themselves sitting here with a team of 40, running projects both UK and internationally. The answer was no. Simply put, neither of them thought that by 2021 Geolytix would have grown as internationally as it had done, and they spoke wonders of everyone involved who had made it happen.Whilst Geolytix has an increasing international presence, the company was started at a kitchen table in London, and so for our 10 year anniversary we thought we would celebrate 10 of our UK projects that have helped us develop into the company we are today.1. AsdaAsda was one of Geolytix’ first clients, and we’ve been working with them for 9 years now, initially helping them overhaul their new store forecasting processes and new space strategy. We work alongside their in-house team, supporting them in coaching and mentoring. David Dodd, Market Strategy Manager says “Geolytix have mentored and up-skilled the team. The work we have done with Geolytix has shaped our strategy… Geolytix are helping us to invest wisely”.2. CamelotCamelot approached us with the question ‘How can we predict any future revenue potential from new lottery terminals, marketing strategies and product innovation if we don’t have a customer loyalty card?' Essentially Camelot didn’t know who was purchasing from their physical in-store terminals and so couldn’t determine what the best next step was to be. Through surveys, understanding online behaviour, utilising mobility data and more, Paul Clarke (Camelot Retail Planning Manager) said “Geolytix have transformed our location planning capability…they have… enabled us to make better decisions where location matters”.3. Co-Op Whilst already having an in-house team of location planning experts, valuable time was being taken to account for localised and unique catchments. The team asked for support automating catchments that reflected what the in-house team would typically draw. We worked with the team on-site, emphasising the notion that we we work together as one team, helping upskill the Co-op team as we worked. Jen Carmichael, Head of Property Strategy & Insight at Co-op said, “this ensure[d] we have the best insight to inform our strategic recommendations and also [save] us time that we can re-invest elsewhere in the team”.4. DominosWorking with franchisees adds another dimension to network planning and this is what we faced when working with Dominos. The challenge was to help Dominos be the number one pizza company in each neighbourhood, whilst also focusing on franchisee profitability. For this, understanding what really resulted in store performance, alongside the impacts of self-cannibalisation, were crucial. Craig Donnellan, Head of Location Planning at Dominos said, “Work[ing] with Geolytix…enabled us to form a consistent approach to new site forecasting…The collaborative approach has resulted in us being able to make decisions around our future location strategy”.5. Harrogate Borough CouncilThe COVID pandemic impacted Britain’s high streets like we had never seen before, and we are seeing clients present different questions to us in the wake of (several) lockdowns. Harrogate Borough Council contacted us, asking for help creating a robust method of measuring high street activity levels to understand the impact of external events, and the effectiveness of recovery initiatives. Mobility data compared alongside a pre-covid baseline was crucial in understanding high street recovery. Providing these measurements in MAPP, our online mapping platform, allowed data and spatial visualisation. Daniel Harper (Executive Office, Economy & Transport at Harrogate Borough Council) said “the data provided by Geolytix has proved vital in measuring the impact of the Reopening the High Street Safety project funding…they listened carefully to challenges we had and quickly came u with value-for-money solutions.”6. Mitchell & ButlersMitchell & Butlers faced network planning challenges due to its multiple brands, from All Bar One to Miller & Carter to Harvester. The challenge predominantly faced was understanding each customer profile and brand catchment to help optimise the blueprint. We needed to create an integrated optimal network that accounted for all 15 brands (and the interplay in between); this resulted in running multi-scenarios as well as incorporating any potential new brands. Setting the team up with MAPP also enabled them to run analyses on a mobile device at any location. Nick Young, the Director of Acquisitions and Estate Agency at Mitchell & Butlers said Geolytix helped “us to use complex data combined with our existing knowledge to drive recommendations that [made] real sense for our business…we have an integrated toolset which enables our analyst to carry out complex queries.”7. On the MarketThis was a slightly different project, and one we took with both hands running; we were challenged to build a web search tool that provided the right properties to view when typing in a postcode, and this relied on providing town and suburb boundaries that actually reflected where people wanted to live (including an accurate Point of Interest dataset e.g. schools, supermarkets etc.) Morgan Ross, IT Director at On the Market said Geolytix “supported our technical team with valuable advice”.8. Total FitnessGyms have always been popular, albeit it first week into the New Year when you have fresh determination to get into shape, the week after Easter when you realise you’ve eaten way too much chocolate, or (most recently) coming out of a lockdown and recognising not getting out for a daily walk wasn’t the best idea. Total Fitness, based in the North of England approached us wanting to understand the size of opportunity for new gym locations, considering customer profiles and catchments. Richard Millman, CEO, said “work[ing] with Geolytix quickly allowed us to understand the potential for increasing our market share…they have given us the insight to support our strategic decision making”.9. WickesWith over 200 UK stores in the UK, investing in large, physical stores is a significant decisions for Wickes (specifically as customers are increasingly browsing and shopping online). Understanding the impact of a new store (including the impact of cannibalisation), as well as the role of the customer – are they picking up a pot of paint or a new kitchen?- is crucial. By understanding the customer profile, and building two bespoke models, including a gravity model to forecast sales for Core DIY we were able to ensure a consistent and accurate approach for the Wickes team. Chris Sweeney, Customer Insight Director at Wickes said “we have a forecasting and mapping tool at our fingertips that is used throughout our property planning…and a team of experts a phone call away.”10. Marks & SpencerLike many high street retailers, Marks and Spencer have a mix of both formats and locations, and its essential to understand how the different formats can align in a network blueprint efficiently. We helped the team at M&S understand the drivers and catchments of the different retail estates (Food, Clothing & Home), as well as running bulk national and regional scenarios to guide future blueprints. Robert Morray, Head of Location Planning at M&S, said, “Geolytix have worked with us to create a bespoke toolset, enabling us to proactively set our strategy and quickly answer an What If scenarios”.Providing a legacy of learning.As we collated this overview of a handful of our projects in the UK, one over-arching theme throughout is apparent. At Geolytix, we strive to provide a legacy of learning; instead of implementing the models and mapping tools and generating results, we help the in-house team to develop their learning and understanding so they can work independently with the tools we have built for them.It must be noted that these are just a handful of our client projects (they are also featured on our website if you would like to read a little more in depth). We have now delivered projects in over 50 countries from Australia and Azerbaijan to Mexico and Mongolia and the list won’t stop here. Perhaps the target for the next 10 years should be 100 countries?Kate McGoldrick, Communications Officer at Geolytix Photo by Randy Tarampi on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Top 10 MAPP features",
      "date": "Wed Oct 27 2021 12:39:35 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/our-top-10-mapp-features/",
      "excerpt": "To celebrate 10 years of Geolytix, we couldn't forget MAPP. As MAPP isn't 10 years old yet, we thought we would celebrate our top 10 features instead...",
      "content": "Whilst Geolytix MAPP might not have been around quite as long as GEOLYTIX itself, it’s certainly come a long way since its initial build back in 2016 (when we had one client). I’ve loved helping to shape its growth and see more and more customers use it and reap its benefits.It’s crazy to think now that back in the early days, we were almost too scared to get into an already-overcrowded online mapping market. And I must admit, I too was slightly sceptical. But, as Christoph said recently, we haven’t developed ‘yet another WebGIS’. MAPP is so much more. MAPP can run drivetimes and return population statistics within seconds, MAPP can find you your next store location and estimate its potential sales, MAPP can generate you an interactive appraisal report with two clicks of a button, quite simply, MAPP works.Over the years I’ve had the not-so-enviable task of demoing MAPP live to prospective customers. These demos are often make or break as to whether the client buys into the solution or not, which - when absolutely nothing you show is pre-canned - can be a little nerve-racking. But, and I have probably jinxed myself now, the technology has never failed me (thank you team!).With the big 10 year anniversary upon us, I thought I’d jot down 10 of my favourite features in mapp (it was quite difficult to choose).\nFilter feature - use this functionality to apply criteria to data on the map (geographical boundaries or points or both!) and watch the map update with your results. For example, you can apply a filter to show you all markets with a population greater than 80,000 with at least 2 Waitrose or M&S stores, but 0 Aldi stores (you’ll be left with Woking, Fleet & Chatham in case you’re interested). Very quickly you can manipulate the map to show you locations which meet any given criteria, immediately highlighting potential opportunities for expansion\nCatchment statistics - click anywhere on the map to generate a radial, drive or walk-time catchment and ‘pull up’ demographic profiles and competition counts instantly\nPotential sites layer - add a marker anywhere on the map and produce an appraisal report helping you to understand whether it could be worthy of investment or not, before going out to assess the site in the field\nCSV export - export any data view to a csv format, so that you can do your own analysis of the data, or share it with others\nGeometry editing - move nodes, add nodes and delete nodes for any territory or catchment. ‘Snap’ to other boundaries to ensure you don’t have any gaps between territories\nGeojson import - temporarily display any geojson file on the map (points or boundaries), click on an object to see information about it then simply click ‘refresh’ to remove it from the map entirely\nDrive duration - click two (or more) points on the map and immediately see the distance and drive time duration between them\nUser roles - set up user roles to restrict access to particular layers and/or geographies. Hide sensitive information from ‘Lite’ users, whilst allowing ‘Super’ users to view everything. E.g. let the Mexico team only see data for Mexico, but allow the Head of Global Real Estate to see data for all countries\nPhoto import - whilst out in the field, use MAPP to detect your current location, then import any photo/s of your stores (or competitors) straight away. Photos are saved and can be viewed any time you revisit the point on the map\nZoom to feature from a data view - when looking at a table in a data view, simply click on a location and the map will navigate to that location, saving you time searching and making it much more efficient to whizz around the map\n\nWe’re constantly building new features and adding to our catalogue. In fact, just last week we built a declutter tool, to make navigating the layer panel and accessing the legend and stylising options much more user friendly.If you have a suggestion for a new feature or would like to hear more about what we have already, please drop me an email at jasmin.fitzpatrick@geolytix. I’ll even give you a live demo if you like...and pray that technology is kind to me that day.Jasmin Fitzpatrick, MAPP Product Owner at Geolytix MAPP is really easy & simple to use, if you would like to start with the basics, please see the video below:"
    },{
      "title": "Ready, set, 'GetGo'",
      "date": "Tue Oct 26 2021 11:59:11 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/ready-set-getgo-tescos/",
      "excerpt": "Last week Tesco opened its first checkout-free store, 'GetGo' in High Holborn. We couldn't pass up the opportunity for a site visit!",
      "content": "I would say I’m very much stuck in my ways when it comes to my grocery shopping – that being your average weekly online food delivery. So, needless to say, this new concept of walking into a grocery store, picking up some items and then simply walking back out again (with the payment all being dealt with automatically through an app), felt a bit science-fiction to me. However, without a Stormtrooper in sight, Tesco’s new ‘GetGo’ store offered a seamless shopping experience.The concept is similar to the ‘Amazon Go’ format, which launched in the UK earlier this year. Outside the store, staff are on hand to help you get set up on the ‘Tesco.com’ app – however, if staff are preoccupied, strategically placed QR codes and in-app instructions will allow you to get set up in no time. Upon entering, you are greeted with a gate prompting you to scan a QR code provided by the app – an experience that reminded me of passing through the security gates at an airport. Then, thanks to cameras and weight sensors which track your ‘basket’ online, you are free to shop to your hearts content, without the need to queue, scan or hear “unexpected item in bagging area”. Want to swap that apple for a chocolate bar? No problem – the technology will track any changes you make to your shop. Moments after sheepishly exiting the store half expecting security to come tap you on the shoulder, you should receive an email receipt and an app notification detailing what you have bought and how much you have been charged.The layout of this store was in line with your average ‘on the move’ Express store, focusing on lunch and impulse. With the new technology and the well-thought-out layout, customers are able to grab their meal deals within minutes. Initially, I was worried the cameras would feel intrusive, however, they are mounted high on the ceiling, meaning they’re hardly noticeable.Unlike other Express stores, there is a restricted area for BWS and Tobacco which has a separate exit allowing customers ID’s to be checked before leaving. Although adding an extra element of faff in trying to find your ID, this is a cleverly planned way to ensure these restricted items do not fall into the hands of an under-aged customer.Left: Entrance to the BWS and Tobacco area which is separated from the main shop floor. Customer ID is checked when leaving through the separate exit. Right: Receipt received moments after leaving the store detailing my purchases and the amount I was charged (promise the chocolates weren’t just for me!)The Express, located in central London, was previously selected in early 2020 to become the first cashless store outside of Tesco Head Office. The 2020 initiative was aimed at those shoppers in a hurry and there is no doubt that the new checkout-free technology will continue to appeal to those specific customers. The location is spot on for such a trial, with the immediate catchment consisting of over 25,000, primarily young, working cosmopolitans who will greatly appreciate the eliminated checkout and queuing times.This technology provides Tesco with a point of difference in a competitive landscape where the immediate competition does not currently have such an offer. That said, Sainsbury’s Holborn Circus Local, just under 0.3km east of GetGo, unsuccessfully trialled a similar technology in 2019. At the time, many customers did not take to the new way of shopping, with many still opting for the customer service desk to pay for items. So, this poses the question – are customers now ready for such a change?GetGo is located on High Holborn, a commuter and worker hotspot and is less than 100m from Chancery Lane Underground.It’s safe to say, a lot has changed in our lives over the 18 months, from daily commutes to the way in which we think about hygiene and interaction. A checkout-free store allows for a ‘low touch transaction’ – a factor that has become important in retail post pandemic. It also reduces the number of customer-facing staff, allowing them more time to replenish and clean shelves, both of which should improve the shopping experience. However, this comes at a cost – a decline in human interaction – something that has been absent from so many of our lives over the past 18 months. Even a few years back, the introduction of self-serve checkouts was found to impact the wellbeing of older shoppers making them feel ‘miserable’ and ‘lonely’. Although the older generation have begun to embrace online shopping, with 65% of over 65’s having shopped online over the past year, over two million people aged over 75 still feel digitally excluded. This could mean that the more retail is automated, and the decreased human contact that comes with it, the more we risk isolating the older shopper.This is where location planning becomes crucial. These checkout-free stores were designed with the convenience shopper in mind. Hence, for the time being, these stores should almost exclusively be targeted at urban, worker locations (like GetGo)– where customers typically have smaller baskets and less time to interact. This technology may be the future, but for the time being these stores may not fare so well in neighbourhood locations – where basket sizes are typically larger, interaction with technology may be lower, and customers are more likely to be seeking a personal experience.The potential challenges that come with checkout-free stores do not seem to phase UK retailers. With Aldi set to launch their first checkout-free store in Greenwich later this year and Morrisons currently testing the technology at their headquarters it feels as if the shift towards this technology is inevitable. It will be interesting to see how shoppers respond to this change and the customer will play a key role in determining whether this technology really is the future of retail. I’m not quite convinced that we will have a future without a checkout in sight, but only time will tell.Rachel Wyles, Associate at Geolytix "
    },{
      "title": "Refill Stores",
      "date": "Tue Oct 19 2021 09:36:15 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/refill-stores-conscious-trend/",
      "excerpt": "Can I get a refill? Zero waste suppliers are on the rise in the UK, and I've been trying out a few innovative local options.",
      "content": "More and more of us are becoming conscious of the need to move from a linear (make-use-dispose) to a more circular economy where we minimise waste, but when it comes to the food and household products we need everyday, opportunities to go single-use-packaging-free have been few and far between. However, things seem to be changing. The major supermarkets have been trialling refill stations in their stores for a few years now, particularly for dried long life products like cereals, pulses and grains. Tesco recently launched a trial called ‘The Loop’ where customers can pay a refundable 20p deposit on containers for a wide range of products, from ketchup to sweets. It’s just like we used to do with glass lemonade bottles at the local corner shop (erm, or so I’m told….am I really that old?), but this time there’s an app for it. Asda just launched their largest ever refill station in their York Monk’s Cross store with over 100 products including pet food and Yorkshire tea. The Bodyshop are rolling out refill stations for their bottle-friendly products, and milkmen and their returnable glass bottles are making a comeback (again, this time there’s an app for it).In addition, hundreds of independent zero waste stores have popped up across the UK in the last couple of years. I’ve spotted 3 different businesses in my local area, all with particularly innovative solutions to making refilling more attractive and convenient.Zen specialise in eco-friendly dry cleaning services and planet-loving productsFirstly, the dry cleaners by the station. We can definitely file dry cleaners in the category of ‘businesses decimated by the Covid pandemic’. With the nations’ shirts, suits and formal wear mostly languishing in wardrobes (or uncollected at the cleaners) since April 2020, the time was ripe for a pivot, and Zen, a local family business, have done just that. Not only have they switched to a more eco-friendly approach to their traditional core business (wet cleaning is the new dry cleaning, apparently!), they’ve also introduced a refill station for a range of household cleaning and health and beauty products which now takes pride of place in the front of the store.They offer a wide range of products in the store, where you can bring your own refillable containers or buy one to fill on the go! For my top-up I took some old plastic bottles with the labels ripped off, but apparently many of the regular clientele prefer to buy their rather stylish glass bottles to get going. The products are supplied by Fill, another family-run business based in Northamptonshire, and are all dye-free and biodegradable. Theirs is a closed loop system and deliveries are via electric vehicle, so the whole supply chain is as planet-friendly as possible.The second store I visited is a branch of The Source Bulk Foods. You can probably guess from the presence of 3 different kombucha flavours on tap that we are in the North London environs. The big appeal of The Source for me was not so much that they offer the opportunity to go packaging-free on the basics like pasta, rice and oil, but that their product range was so interesting and enticing. I got a feeling reminiscent of the one induced by the pick & mix aisle of Woolies when I was a kid, but with added self-congratulatory vibes. The range of dried fruits, mueslis and ‘raw snacks’ was incredible. There was pink Himalayan rock salt, acai powder and a grind-your-own nut butter machine. Surely the foodie-influencers would approve. I did start to have a mild panic when the price of my pistachio Turkish delight started rocketing up at the weigh-in, but luckily it was in a particularly heavy container. The Source also has a reward scheme where you get 5% of what you spend back on your next purchase.The final business, which I am yet to order from but spotted on a local street, is The Top Up Truck, which is a mobile zero-waste shop operating from an old electric milk float. If you live in one of the territories of East & North London that the truck services on it’s weekly schedule, you can book a slot and they will come right to your house. They don’t carry the entire range (of 150+ products) on the truck so you have to pre-order what you need by midday the day before, but you also don’t have to lug your heavy jars to and from the shop so it’s surely a good trade-off. Another benefit is that even if you’ve not completely run out of something, they can still top you up and you only pay for the extra weight. As a consumer, getting a refill does take more forward planning and more time investment compared to just grabbing a bottle or packet off a shelf. However, with increasingly convenient and tempting options like the ones popping up near me, it’s harder to find excuses not to. The fact that you only need to buy as much as you need is a boon to budgeting, and to smaller households who can often feel short changed by the bigger-pack, better-value model of mainstream shopping. I can also imagine a new ‘eco-convenience’ model where people drop off their empty bottles on their way to work and pick them up full on the way home would work well in locations close to train stations like Zen’s (should commuting to the office ever become the norm again!). We’ve all got used to remembering to take our shopping bags with us when we pop to the supermarket, so it’s not too much of a stretch to remember a few empty containers too. The main thing is that we get lots and lots of use out of them, to compensate for all the extra carbon compared to disposable packaging. Now I’m off to munch on Turkish delight and try and re-unite some tupperware tubs with their long-lost lids. I’ll be needing them!Alison Moriarty, Associate at Geolytix"
    },{
      "title": "Growing our affluence (proxies) - finding the rich and the rest",
      "date": "Wed Sep 29 2021 16:50:26 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/growing-our-affluence-proxies/",
      "excerpt": "Sometimes to get the perfect data, you have to think outside the box. Faced with a data limitation, Clive our Data Scientist, turned to Facebook to answer a few affluence questions ",
      "content": "The ProblemAffluence and propensity to spend are critical factors in many of our store forecasting models. In many countries we are spoiled for choice and can rely on authoritative spend estimates by category, bank transaction data, or direct customer transactions (the heftier the retailer the better).At a minimum, income data in some form can often be obtained at a reasonable level of geography and, along with other geographically linked data, kicks off the process of understanding the customer.Countries do come in all shapes, sizes, and levels of data availability however, and in some cases even the stalwart national census is chopped up and rendered less-than-useful at the scales we require.In these cases, sourcing or creation of useful affluence proxies is essential, as a robust measure can often provide an easy win in understanding current store performance and to help plan a future estate.The SolutionHaving faced this issue in multiple markets we now have an array of metrics to turn to that can serve as proxies for population affluence.At the very basic end of the spectrum, one could use a top-down approach, disaggregating higher level income or wealth data down to lower geographies. Depending on the type of client and their catchment sizes this may be enough, but for most this approach is too limited.Oftentimes a more appropriate alternative is to create / source data at as low a level as possible. Keeping specific details light here, we manage to leverage various open, client, third-party, or self-collected data in the hunt to classify geographical areas by wealth.In some instances though, no single source of truth is robust enough and a stronger measure can be obtained through combinating multiple factors.A Recent AdditionTo this end, and with the release of a ‘Relative Wealth Index’ by Facebook’s Data for Good team and the University of California, Berkeley, we have recently gotten another chance to enrich and validate our current processes.Source: Micro-Estimates of Wealth for all Low-and Middle-Income Countries (Chi, Fang, Chatterjee, Blumenstock, 2021), https://arxiv.org/ftp/arxiv/papers/2104/2104.07761.pdfThe \"Relative Wealth Index\" (RWI) provides a measure of wealth for 135 countries at a 2-by-2km resolution and combines data from a multitude of sources including mobile phones, Wi-Fi penetration, road density, household surveys, and earth observation measures into a single measure of wealth (relative within each country).The paper is well worth a read and details the extensive amount of input data, modelling approach, and validation measures used. As a primer though, a huge amount of data was transformed and fed into a machine learning model, calibrated using “ground-truth” household survey data before again being validated against independent household survey data.It has been exciting to see how mobile phone data (device counts and platform) were utilised in the RWI, especially as wholistically assessing smartphone ownership is considered to improve household wealth measures.Case StudyBeginning a new client project in Vietnam, I had kept in the back of my mind that the Facebook/UC Berkeley RWI may be of use.Using a tried and tested approach for proxying affluence yielded respectable results yet was somewhat constrained to cities, larger towns, and coastal regions. So, as an excuse to test out the new Facebook data, I turned to the RWI.I had initially considered using it just as a tool for validating our approach, yet it was soon apparent that it would be especially useful in plugging the gaps between cities and provide a solution to the issue of data availability.We found that the RWI provided comparatively flatter differentiation within urban areas, yet this was understandable given the 2km resolution. Nevertheless, the general patterns of wealth at both the national and regional levels were broadly consistent with our own.The correlation between the datasets was convincing enough that, while clearly different measures, they pointed to the same underlying factor of interest.This led us to combine the strengths of each, namely the national coverage of the Facebook data and the more granular nature within densely populated areas of our data.In this case, we sought a weighting of convenience for each index that best fit with the client at hand, however, the approach could be easily modified depending on the end goal.The end result was the integration and a better understanding of an innovative piece of open data and a useful input and validation set to our our internal affluence proxies.Clive Drowley, Data Scientist at Geolytix"
    },{
      "title": "University Halls – are they designed with walking in mind?",
      "date": "Wed Sep 29 2021 12:57:19 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/university-halls-designed-with-walking-in-mind/",
      "excerpt": "Moving to university comes with a lot of big decisions, including which university halls of residence.\n\nMAPP can make this decision a little easier; read below to find out how... ",
      "content": "This year, 388,230 students were accepted into University, according to UCAS, up 8% on 2020; of this figure, 245,330 are 18-year olds – up 17% on 2020 levels. Fresh out of college and heading straight into higher education, the process of applying to university isn’t an easy one, although data now shows that nearly half of school leavers are making this next step.There are a lot of decisions to make, from picking the course, to deciding which university is best; then comes the nitty-gritty decisions like university halls of residence. When I was making these decisions back in 2014/15, I was lucky enough to be able to go and view my prospective new homes. University undergraduates this year – and last – haven’t been so lucky as to view halls in the flesh however.Selecting university halls is a big decision, as it becomes a student’s home, comforts and social life amongst many other things. The step of moving out of your parent’s home and into independence is a big one, and a building block to helping students become independent. This independence means becoming self-sufficient, and jobs that parents or guardians may have helped with- or done entirely - such as the weekly food shop and the laundry, are now down to the students themselves.As many universities are city-based, students will find themselves submerged in the urban life; with parking a nightmare (or simply a myth) many students in their first year of university will base their life around where they can walk, or easily get public transport to – student finance doesn’t often allow for regular taxi rides. Understanding the location of university halls in relation to both the city centre and university campus is incredibly insightful; the Uni Guide note ‘Location’ down as its second point to researchwhen it comes to selecting your first year home. They outline the following as important factors to consider:\nProximity to campus\nProximity to transport links\nProximity to the local area\n\nSo where does Geolytix come into play?A few months ago, a family friend asked which university halls I went to, as her daughter was going to the same university in September; (partly) due to Covid, they weren’t able to make the 5-hour drive to view the halls, and a basic google search didn’t answer many of their questions. I didn’t think much of it until I asked if they had considered the university halls I stayed in; their response was “it’s lovely, but way too far away from the university campus”. The funny thing was… the halls in question were a 10- minute walk from the university campus, and 5-minutes from the main shopping district.There was little information online that gave a clear understanding of where this halls’ (and others provided by the university) were, in relation to the university campus, the city centre, transport links (and most importantly – from the students point of view – the nightclubs).I quickly logged into MAPP, and in the best part of 5 minutes I had a visualisation of not only the halls’ location, but everything within a 10-minute walking distance – what I would argue is the suitable starting range when researching amenities in walking distance.But first, let’s talk isolines.‘As the crow flies’ is a phrase you might have heard of before; I get flashbacks to my GCSE geography days when I hear it.Let’s hypothesise that it takes on average 20 minutes to walk a mile (another fact from my school days, this time DofE). Calculating how far you could walk in 20 minutes, could then be perceived as drawing a ‘line’ one mile out from your starting point and drawing a circle around that point, as seen in Image 1. However, in reality you will be faced with obstacles such as roads, houses, rivers and fields, as seen in Image 2; your route isn’t as simple as walking A to B in a straight line – you may need to turn left down one road then right down another adding to your journey time. You will find that generally, your route will be longer than 20-minutes.Image 1 (left) : If you were to draw ‘as the crow files’ to determine a 20-minute walk Image 2 (right) : Taking into account obstacles such as rivers, housing, or simply roads that don’t run in a straight, direct line to where you want to goHow do we overcome this?We use Isoline Routing. Isoline routing calculates the routes you could walk (e.g. not through a river, but walking that bit further down to cross the bridge). The routing engine returns a polyline that connects all the possible edge points together creating an ‘imperfect’ circle that is a reachable radius – shown in Image 3.Image 3 : Our Isoline HERE in MAPP, calculating a 10-minute walk around a selected point in LeedsBack to our university halls.When I think back to my university days there were a handful of things that were important to me, in being in walking distance to my halls of residence. These being:\nSupermarkets\nCinemas\nRestaurants, bars and nightclubs (very important to know for Freshers’ week)\nBus stops (who really wants to walk to their 9am lecture in the rain?)\nRetail places (retail therapy gets you through both freshers’ flu and looming deadlines very effectively)\nThe university campus (it’s important to know whether walking in, is a viable commute option)\n\nThe video at the end of the blog shows the process of filtering on the different datasets I mentioned above, and this helps identify where they are in relation to a specific halls of residence – for the purpose of the video we selected Charles Morris as it is rather central to both the university campus and the other halls provided in Leeds. Using an isoline gives us a real understanding of just how far you can walk in 10-minutes; if you wake up late and need to rush in for your 9am seminar, you can definitely power walk in from Charles Morris. Though I don’t recommend rushing for your morning classes; always leave time for a morning cuppa!Image 4: Our 10-minute walking distance isoline around Charles Morris halls of residence in Leeds in relation to retail places, F+B Hubs, grocery retailers, bus stops and cinemasImage 4 shows that in the 10-minute specific isoline, there is a Tesco Express and two Co-op’s, alongside the Hyde Park Cinema and multiple bus stops that make the journey into Leeds City Centre a quick and easy one.Image 5 : The Retail Place we consider for Leeds City Centre, including f+b hubs and grocery locationsImage 5 indicates the amenities in Leeds City Centre, which realistically is not far from the University of Leeds (and the halls). If you don’t particularly fancy walking into the city centre, as we discovered in Image 4, there are plenty of buses that you can get in (as well as Uber and several taxi firms).Image 5 outlines the plethora of grocery retailers on offer in the city centre, as well as several Food + Beverage hubs. Our F+B hubs were all created by us, making for a very unique data set. The hubs cover locally recognised ‘destination’ eating and drinking places across cities, large towns and tourist towns and were created by determining which are on the same or adjacent streets. We then pinpointed areas of a high concentration of these establishments. The final stage was a manual review, set to categorise the type of hub and whether it was predominantly eating, drinking or clubbing.Image 6: Around Leeds City Centre we have demarcated F+B Hubs (seen in green) alongside the shopping centresWe can see that Leeds has the mix of retail and eateries; Image 6 highlights the location of the F+B hubs as well as The Merrian Centre, St Johns, The Core, Victoria Quarter, Leeds Trinity and The Corn Exchange. With regards to the F+B hubs, we picked out Greek Street and Call Lane (amongst others) which are well known for fantastic eateries and nights out. Whilst they might be just outside of that 10-minute walking radius, again from personal experience, with a little speed on your heels you can walk from the University campus to Leeds City Centre in around 15 minutes; adding on the extra 10 or so minutes to the University Halls of Residences’ – that are just on the other side of the university campus - it still isn’t a long slog from one destination to the next.By breaking Leeds down into ‘bite-sized’ chunks, it is clear just how much is accessible to those who would be getting round the city on foot. Picking your home from home shouldn’t be daunting; you shouldn’t have to worry if there will be a supermarket nearby, or shops within walking distance (carrying your shopping hauls can be quite tiring).I think one thing to remember above all else is that businesses and brands are aware, especially in university towns, that the student population isn’t likely to have cars; instead, public transport and our very own two feet are our way around, and businesses want to be accessible. MAPP, as shown in this image visuals, and the co-joining video, help to show you what is in and around (a location of your choice), and being able to block out that 10-15 minute walk time can really help to understand it.Kate McGoldrick, Communications Officer at Geolytix Photo by Benjamin Elliott on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "How 5 coloured gazebos, social bubbles and community spirit got us through Lockdown...",
      "date": "Tue Sep 28 2021 11:36:27 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/volunteering-and-working-during-pandemic/",
      "excerpt": "Martin, an associate at Geolytix, volunteers at Mudlarks, a charity which was deemed a front line care service during the pandemic. Here he discusses the challenges he faced, and how Geolytix helped support him, support others ",
      "content": "I’ve been volunteering at Mudlarks, a local charity supporting adults with learning disabilities for more than 6 years, and here, as in almost every other aspect of all our lives, the last 18 months have presented a whole new set of challenges. As is the case all over the country, dealing with these challenges, and finding a way to make things work has often brought communities closer together.Being a front line care service, Mudlarks is an essential service, and therefore remained open to provide support for it’s gardeners throughout every lockdown. We are lucky in that the nature of our work, horticultural therapy, means we are outdoors, so therefore lower risk, but we still needed to adapt how we worked to keep everyone as safe as possible.This is where the delivery of 5 gazebos (each a different colour) and a load of similarly coloured tabards came in. They enabled us to work more safely in bubbles – one gazebo for each bubble, with everyone in the bubble sporting their appropriately coloured tabard. Each bubble works together throughout the day, maintaining social distancing as they work, and use their gazebo for breaks. A simple but effective solution, and easy for all the gardeners to understand and follow – not as warm as our old hut with it’s log burner during the winter though!Through the trees you can see the tops of the yellow and purple gazebos, set up to help us keep our social bubblesNew routines also entered daily life – lateral flow tests in the morning before going to Mudlarks, staggered break times to help to keep the bubbles separate, sterilising cups/tables/chairs after tea breaks, then at the end of the day sterilising everything again, including all the gardening tools.The nature of some of our gardeners’ disabilities meant that they were at very high risk from Covid, and were therefore shielding at home for months, unable to come to Mudlarks. We all know how mentally challenging lockdowns can be, and shielding must have been even tougher, because they couldn’t leave the house at all. We therefore called each of them at least weekly, just for a chat, and at harvest time, delivered freshly picked vegetables from the allotment to their doors. It’s lovely to see them all back at Mudlarks again now!There was also the challenge of a shortage of volunteers; for example some were themselves shielding, some had school children who were now at home learning due to schools being closed, and so were unable to volunteer. I already enjoyed the benefits of flexible working at Geolytix by volunteering at Mudlarks one day per week, however I wanted to do my bit to help support Mudlarks through this difficult time. I therefore asked if I could reduce my working days to three days per week, so that I could support Mudlarks on 2 days. This was agreed without hesitation, in fact it was really positively supported – thank you so much Geolytix!Finally, like charities all over the country, Mudlarks relies on the generosity of the community for donations and supporting fundraising events. Throughout the pandemic, none of these fundraising events have been able to take place, so please spare a thought for your local charities, and as we edge back to a more open way of life, please support them if you can.Martin Bregazzi, Associate at Geolytix "
    },{
      "title": "Bank Branch Data Open and Free from Geolytix",
      "date": "Thu Sep 23 2021 09:16:15 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/bank-branch-data-open-and-free-from-geolytix/",
      "excerpt": "We are making the last 5 years of canonical UK bank branch data fully open under a CC0 license. It includes all UK branches - including those now shut - that have traded over the last five years. Read for more information...",
      "content": "Penguins famously and adorably form huddles to thrive in the Antarctic cold. Bank branches in the UK do the same. I can say this with 100% authority because I have worked with the canonical data for currently trading banks and those that have shut in the last five years. You can check my workings, in fact you can do or commission whatever analyses you want because Geolytix are making the last five years of canonical UK bank branch data fully open under a CC0 license. Maybe you think measuring the penguinness is best measured with a simple median nearest neighbours over time (my preference), or Moran’s I of hours, or maybe Ripley’s K. Without this data we are releasing today you really won’t get far, with it and the statistical world is your oyster.Access to cash and wider financial services are topics exercising many. The latest government consultation closes on Thursday 23rd September 2021. We hope making this data open and available to all helps everyone involved make evidence-based commentaries and decisions.The first immutable law of data analysis is inputs drive everything. No data equals no analysis, no models and no stories. Are banks preferentially closing in less affluent areas? Are Post Offices well positioned to serve the newly bank-branch deprived? How many people now live a mile further away from a branch than five years ago? Are particular brands behaving differently? What characteristics unite towns with no branches? Without knowing where branches are and have been you really have no chance answering even these simple questions, let alone constructing and conveying the rich customer and business story of how networks evolve.Newly closed banks in Acton - the above row is when the premises were banks, and the below row is what the premises are now. Source: Google Street View\n\n\n\nThis newly open data has all major UK branches (including those now shut) that have traded over the last five years, and comes with lat/longs, trading hours, and closure date where relevant. We have also added distance to nearest Post Office branch (trading as of Sep 2021).For the record the briefest of answers to those questions above are No, Oh Yes, about a million, a bit but not massively, smaller towns in the shadow of bigger ones.Below, maps visually show what the data is telling us - and this is where the penguin reference really makes sense. Banks that are in the outlying villages/towns are typically the first to close, with those in a more central location remaining open for longer. \n\n\n\nYou can download the latest data and supporting documentation here*. Please @Geolytix on LinkedIn to let us know how you are using the data. Email info@geolytix.co.uk for any further information. *This link will always have the latest version of data, even if updated after the publications date of this blog.\n\n\n\nBlair Freebairn, CEO at Geolytix The image above shows that typically it is the banks in outlying towns or villages that close, however like the penguin, those huddling in the middle seem to survive As with the image above, here is an example of 'penguinness' - where those banks that are in the central location are those that survive, with the outliers closing first\n\n\n\nPhoto by Martin Wettstein on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "In-person events are back on and we couldn't be happier",
      "date": "Thu Sep 23 2021 09:12:34 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/in-person-events-are-back-on-and-we-couldnt-be-happier/",
      "excerpt": "Our CEO Blair Freebairn headed to his first in-person event since before the pandemic started 18-months ago. Below he details the experience at ODI Canal Side Chats ",
      "content": "For the first time, oh the first time, yeah, the first time… we are meeting for the first time*. Well, this is odd. I am sitting in an airy Kings Cross foyer enjoying a pastrami and pickle sandwich, crisps (salt and vinegar), and sipping a coffee dispensed from one of those giant silver things that look like a baked bean tin with the label soaked off. I listen to the comforting gentle murmur of background chats. To my left two youngsters are sharing master’s dissertation virtual deadline horror stories, and on my right two friends are sharing gossip about a new job, and then across the room someone I think I know, or should know, but can’t be sure I know catches my eye in a knowing way.The event organiser gives everyone the polite hurry-up with low outstretched arms and a fixed smile. We are about to hear people talk, in real life, in a room, together, live. It is an ODI canal side chat and Nigel Shadbolt, a little nervously begins, his conversation with Felicity Burch of the Centre for Data Ethics and Innovation. I look around the room; maybe a hundred people, mostly younger than me; no masks instead wearing eager beaver first day of term smiles. As the chat unfolds my mind wanders. The immutable law of these things is you only ever remember one message. I am struck by how the pandemic has changed but not changed the truths about data. The same topics, hopes and frustrations, the pandemic has made clear what should have already by been obvious. Data driven decision making is quite the bandwagon, now amongst our civic leaders. But the sad truth is that through the pandemic this has largely been a fig leave, lip service to support decisions made the old-fashioned way; biases, intuition but most of all fear.As the conversation closes and questions are canvassed. I’m strangely reassured that the age-old traditions of using questions at a conference to show quite how clever you are extant. Dick waxers (they are always men) as my old colleague Mike Ashmore used to call them. As we wind up and shuffle out the person-I-know-but-can’t-exactly-place, who had come and sat next to me, strikes up conversation. It floods back, yes, he did such and such at so and so, and we met there, then and both know her and him, and oh yes her (how is he doing by the way?). We catch up on how ‘pandemic’ has affected our businesses, careers, thoughts. He is now doing this and that for them. A smart person I don’t know approaches us to talk about that project with my newly re-found acquaintance; and we get chatting. Ah yes, your business is interesting, we share a few clients, maybe we should have a coffee? OK, we both have to skedaddle, before we part I punch in the email she spells out and send into the aether, who knows if anything comes of this.A new connection has been made, an old one woken up, some metaphorical food for thought amidst the real food. It is a bright morning as I walk through the tree-lined streets of Barnsbury and Pentonville down to our office in Clerkenwell. London is waking up and I love it.Watch the event here. *Apologies to the script.Blair Freebairn, CEO at Geolytix "
    },{
      "title": "GEOLYTIX Leeds - Setting up our new home",
      "date": "Wed Sep 15 2021 13:17:35 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/welcome-to-our-new-leeds-office/",
      "excerpt": "With an ever growing team, twelve of whom are based in Leeds, we decided it was time to move into a new Leeds office. We have the Yorkshire tea at the ready...",
      "content": "Four years on from setting up our first permanent presence in Leeds, this week marks another Geolytix milestone as we move into our new Leeds office at Park House, a short 5 minute walk from the train station.With twelve Data Scientists, Data Leads & Analysts and Location Planners now based out of the city, finding a space big enough for us all hasn't proved as easy as first thought with demand for similar sized space at a premium. Thankfully we managed to fight off competition from larger companies downsizing and other companies looking to re-engage with office life, and land a great spot at Park House, located in the former Pizza Express building on Park Square.We're now fully stocked with the essentials including Yorkshire tea (of course) and are looking forward to welcoming the rest of the Geolytix team, clients, partners and friends of the business over the next few weeks, the kettle is always on..mapouter{position:relative;text-align:right;height:500px;width:710px;}.gmap_canvas {overflow:hidden;background:none!important;height:500px;width:710px;}Title photo provided by Park House Leeds"
    },{
      "title": "Freedom Day has been and gone, but have people been enjoying their freedom in London?",
      "date": "Tue Aug 31 2021 11:22:48 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/london-recovery-after-freedom-day/",
      "excerpt": "We look at how London activity levels have recovered since Freedom Day on July 19th 2021. ",
      "content": "Chris and I first worked on our encouragingly titled ‘Pub Project’ back in May, as we thought it would be interesting to see the impact of the lifting of restrictions in the UK – particularly on the food & beverage industry, one which has been harshly impacted. Our first report determined that London was indeed ‘bouncing back’ (no doubt aided by us Brits not letting rain put us off our first pint!), with Yorkshire recovering rather well too. By the time our second round of analysis rolled around (this time analysing the impact of the opening of indoor seating), Boris Johnson and the UK Government announced that Freedom Day (originally June 21st) was a no-go. Delayed. All of those ‘June 21st outfits’, days booked off work (and generally a nationwide day of somewhat normality) was put on hold. And so was our Part 2.But now we’re back, with a bigger set of mobility data which will help us determine how well London is doing, now Freedom Day has occurred. Using Unacast mobile ping data, we have looked at the movement of unique mobile devices around our food & beverage (f+b) hubs, across London, 4 weeks before and after Freedom Day, 19th July 2021.Our f+b hubs were all created by us, making for a very unique data set. The hubs cover locally recognised ‘destination’ eating and drinking places across cities, large towns and tourist towns and were created by determining which are on the same or adjacent streets. We then pinpointed areas of a high concentration of these establishments. The final stage was a manual review, set to categorise the type of hub and whether it was predominantly eating, drinking or clubbing.Graph 1 – please note, Zone 5 and 6 are experiencing similar activity levels so are overlaid on the graphGraph 1 tells a story of mobility across all 6 London zones, highlighting particular zones that could be of particular analysis. It is encouraging to see that Zones 1 and 2 are experiencing an increase in activity levels, as through lockdown, Zone 1 (Central London in particular) experienced a significant drop in activity levels, as people weren’t travelling into London – due to the Stay at Home orders.I would argue the weather certainly had a part to play in this – remember back to April 12thwhen a large swathe of the UK was hit with torrential rain? Whilst some avid ‘fans’ didn’t let the rain deter them (hiding under umbrellas nursing a much anticipated pint), I know for a fact I didn’t rush to dine outdoors. July however was a much warmer month, especially around Freedom Day when much on the UK faced a rare heatwave (with temperatures up to 30+ degrees) – ideal for staycations, and a trip out to the pub with friends.Zone AnalysisGraph 2To prevent this report from being hundreds of pages long (believe me, we could write and write), we thought we would analyse both zones 1 and 2 and zones 3-6 together, as they have naturally grouped. Activity levels in Zone 1 have certainly ‘responded’ to Freedom Day, and whilst there are dips and troughs in the levels, these would be expected – we would expect Thursday-Saturday to be the busiest parts of the week, especially as friendship groups are reuniting, and nightclubs and bars are able to open; outside of the working week (Friday and Saturday evenings), is when people are likely to meet up and socialise. To note, these dips across the weeks fall on a Sunday (likely the days when people are nursing hangovers and not particularly wanting to leave their house).Graph 3By isolating zones 3-6 in Graph 3, it becomes apparent, that whilst activity levels may not have increased dramatically after Freedom Day, activity levels haven’t been dipping as much now that restrictions have been near enough fully lifted. The most significant ‘dip’ in activity levels across all 4 of the zones in Graph 3, was experienced on July 4th, before Freedom Day.The fact that we haven’t see a dramatic peak in activity levels shouldn’t be disconcerting though. Easily forgettable (especially with the lack of August heatwave we were promised), is that we are in the midst of summer holidays; the second half of August, leading towards ‘back to school’, often results in many people taking annual leave and getting away for a few days. That, matched with an increase in people moving out of London to more rural areas where houses (and gardens) are bigger – and in some cases more affordable – means that slightly muted activity levels after Freedom Day is not surprising. Perhaps our next in the series should focus on the commuter towns surrounding London, or areas that have seen the highest number of house sales?Graph 4To give Zone 5 a little visibility (hidden under Zone 6 in Graphs 1-3), we have put in Graph 4 which does highlight how similar activity levels are in these two oyster zones. Following a very similar pattern of activity levels, the only major differentiation we can see between the two zones is that Zone 6 is experiencing slightly higher levels of activity. Catching up with a colleague of ours who lives in Waltham Forest, we discussed that perhaps Zone 6 is still experiencing this higher level of activity as people have (through Lockdown) moved to ‘the end of the tube line’. Residential areas in Zone 6 (borough analysis is further on in the report) offer slightly more space but are still accessible to central London.Borough AnalysisMap 1: The change in average weekly activity levels from the four weeks before Freedom Day to the four weeks after, shown as a %. Please note: we have only included boroughs which include F+B hubsThere is a definite geographical pattern to the change in activity levels after Freedom Day (July 19th). Westminster, Newham and Havering and City of London are boroughs to note, experiencing a 38%, 21%, 19% and 18% increase in activity levels respectively. It is interesting to note that 6 boroughs in London (all in West London – except Haringey) experienced a decrease in activity levels after Freedom Day. However, as theorised earlier, this could be for a number of factors, including people travelling into other areas of London (central London for instance), or out of the city for a staycation; it isn’t cause for concern, as the majority of London boroughs did experience an increase in activity levels.Graph 5Take Graph 5 for instance, which highlights the 4 boroughs mentioned above. Westminster is experiencing a considerable increase in activity levels, which is extremely encouraging, as Westminster (and other central London boroughs) did suffer from a decrease in footfall during Lockdown. It is therefore great to see an increase in activity levels – people returning to central London.It must be noted that Graph 5 isn’t representative of actual activity levels, but rather a % change. For instance, City of London, whilst only experiencing an 18% increase in activity levels (which was below Newham and Havering), did experience higher activity levels, than the two aforementioned boroughs.If we were to look at activity levels (as opposed to the % change), there is a slightly different pattern that becomes apparent. Map 2 indicates that in fact, the central hub of London, including Hammersmith & Fulham, Islington, Hackney, Southwark and Tower Hamlets were experiencing high levels of activity. This is incredibly encouraging to see as it indicates people are journeying back into London, albeit it commuting into the office, or tourism.Looking at the top 4 boroughs as by actual activity levels, shown in Graph 6, then we would see City of London and Westminster, alongside Hackney and Wandsworth.Graph 6It is interesting to note that the City of London experienced similar activity levels as Hackney and Wandsworth, yet the weekend of 3rd July and 30thJuly did see two significant spikes in activity, with City of London experiencing activity levels closer to those in Westminster.Map 2: Average weekly activity levels after Freedom Day Please note: we have only included boroughs which include F+B hubsF+B Hub specificsOur initial interest was looking at activity levels around food & beverage hubs in London, as this was an industry that was severely impacted by COVID and the multiple consequent lockdowns.Seeing that there are boroughs that have experienced an increase in activity following Freedom Day, why not look at the areas of high activity within the boroughs themselves.Westminster and City of London.We analysed these two boroughs earlier in the report as they experienced both the highest % change in activity levels, and the highest activity levels, after Freedom Day.Map 3 : F+B hubs in Westminster (left) and City of London (right), that experienced the highest activity levels within their respective borough).With almost 60 individual f+b hubs across Westminster and City of London, it was most beneficial to highlight those f+b hubs that experienced the highest activity levels; for Westminster this was Leicester Square (by a long shot) and China town – shown in Map 3.It is interesting to note that these f+b hubs are located in close proximity to each other which does indicate that once in London people are possibly happy to walk around and explore the surrounding areas; if they are visiting Chinatown after a recommendation from TikTok, they may venture into Leicester Square for instance.Graph 7Graph 7 follows a pattern that was almost expected after Freedom Day – that activity levels in London would continue to increase, as people's confidence returns. These two F+B hubs are really the core of London's night time economy and we see that activity had flatlined until restrictions were eased, and since then levels have only grown as Londoners and tourists alike rediscover the restaurants, bars, clubs and theatres London has to offer. Night time economies had few ways to function under the previous restrictions, so their recovery only really begins now, and its hard to imagine the growth seen here will slow down soon.Chinatown, like Leicester Square (and many other places in London) is a destination in its own right, however the increase popularity in social media platforms such as TikTok could be part of the reason why activity levels are increasing in this f+b hub. “Where to eat in London” type videos have shot up in popularity, particularly now Lockdown has lifted and people are desperate to get out of the house and explore the UK (either further afield or right on their doorstep). Food stops in Chinatown have been making the tops of the list, including Bunsik (for their Corndogs) or Hefaure, for their dreamy Japanese pancakes.In City of London, it was Monument and Tower Hill f+b hubs that experienced the highest activity levels – shown in Map 3.Graph 8Unlike Graph 7, Graph 8 follows a pattern that wasn’t initially predicted; whilst Monument followed the pattern of (steady) increase through the 4 weeks before and after Freedom Day, Tower Hill has instead seen two major spikes in activity - weeks commencing June 28th and July 26th. Interesting to note, these were 3 weeks before and 1 week after Freedom Day (respectively).With regards to Monument, the proximity to London Bridge as well as the plethora of restaurants and bars could have influenced the increase in activity levels. With restrictions lifting, and groups over 6 able to join together in venues, ordering at the bar a ‘pre-covid’ activity we can once again do, and nightclubs opening their doors and dancefloors, we expected that areas with bars and nightclubs to experience an increase in activity.Wandsworth and Hackney.The borough of Wandsworth and Hackney (alongside City of London and Westminster) saw the highest activity levels after Freedom Day.As Wandsworth and Hackney have fewer f+b hubs that Westminster and Chinatown it was viable to present them all in Graphs 9 & 10.Graph 9As is evident, Balham High Street and Upper Putney high street experienced the highest average weekly activity levels in Wandsworth. Looking at Map 4, it is interesting to note that these two f+b hubs aren’t necessarily in close proximity, with Upper Putney High Street in North West Wandsworth, and Balham high street closer to East. It could be argued that proximity results in an activity level through flow. Graph 9 indicates that Church Square Putney f+b hub was the third ‘busiest’ hub in Wandsworth, which is located near to Upper Putney High Street.Map 4: F+B hubs in Upper Putney high street (left) and Balham High Street (right), that experienced the highest activity levels within the borough of Wandsworth.In Hackney (Graph 10 and Map 5) - as opposed to the other boroughs we have looked at - there is only one f+b hub that has experienced an extremely high average weekly activity; Shoreditch. Map 5 indicates the location of Shoreditch in comparison to other f+b hubs in Hackney and it is interesting to see that even though there is the close proximity to Horton Square, Rivington Street and Boxpark, only Boxpark f+b hub saw activity levels ‘stand out’ in Graph 10.Graph 10Map 5 : f+b hubs in Hackney, with Shoreditch F+B hub highlighted in Orange.Akin to activity levels in Westminster, City of London and Wandsworth, again we see the pattern of high activity levels seeming to group around an activity ‘overflow’ – visitors to Shoreditch, may then find themselves walking into Boxpark.A boost in average activity levels in Shoreditch is not overly surprising as the area is renowned for art, fashion and food; celebrating the opening of its third UK site in Leonards Street in Shoreditch, ‘EggSlut’ set up a food truck in Brick Lane on August 14th offering 100 free sandwiches.Whilst this was only a one day event, it would bring an increase in activity to Shoreditch (and surrounding areas) as people journey in to try the ‘edible breakfast clouds’.So where does the weather, summer holidays and an app come into things?You’ve no doubt read headlines in the news about highstreets footfall levels dropping below pre-covid levels. Whilst these are centred around high streets, and we are focussing on f+b hubs, it speaks about activity levels in public areas. The weather is often to blame, with headlines saying ‘turbulent weather’ from the incredible heatwave we saw in July to the thunderstorms and rain we’re experiencing now, deterring people from highstreets and f+b hubs - in a heatwave, first thought is to head to the beach or park, and not walk around shops or grabbing something to eat. Although I will admit I did head to the cinema to enjoy the aircon.The same is to say for the pingdemic. The NHS track and trace app has been notifying people in the millions that they have potentially come in contact with covid and need to isolate. This ‘pingdemic’ has resulted in venues and shops having to close for periods of isolation as their staff are unable to work. Supermarkets are offering paid incentives for truck drivers to apply for jobs as a large majority of their driving force have been told to isolate; the same can be said for in-store workers, leaving shelves as empty as the start of the pandemic- remember the fight for toilet roll and pasta!The secondary impact of the pingdemic is people are cautious to leave their homes in case they do get pinged – whether they have plans locally, or are venturing abroad for the first time in 18 months, a ping could leave them isolating and their plans scuppered. This is the case with the return to the office too, especially for those commuting into London. The fear of the ping is very real.This is to say that whilst recovery seems to be on the up and up, I imagine activity levels could be higher if it weren’t for adverse weather and the NHS track and trace app. On the latter though, it is so crucial that we follow rules and regulations and recommendations to isolate, in order to keep the country up and running. Hopefully we are over the last of lockdowns, but as we’ve seen so far in the pandemic, you can never be too sure if there is another wave on the way.Regardless, London has certainly continued its road of recovery, and we can see the impacts of restrictions lifting on Indoor Eating and Freedom Day. According to our Retail Recovery Index (RRI), developed bespoke in-house last week (wc 16thAugust), London was at 72% of pre-covid activity. To put into context, in Lockdown 2 in December, activity levels in London dropped to 15% of pre-covid levels. It is clear to say that overall London certainly is bouncing back. I imagine come September, more workers will return into the office, and business travel into the capital will continue to grow. And confidence will play a big factor also; coming into our second full month of no restrictions, and (hopefully) not returning into another lockdown, confidence will increase, and people may start travelling further from home. Plus, Christmas is only 4 months away – time to start that shopping!Chris Storey, Data Scientist & Kate McGoldrick, Communications Officer at GeolytixPhoto by Fred Moon on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "GEOLYTIX shortlisted for Data IQ 'Best Place to Work in Data' Award",
      "date": "Wed Aug 25 2021 12:50:55 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/geolytix-shortlisted-for-best-place-data/",
      "excerpt": "We thought what better way to celebrate being shortlisted for 'Best Place to Work in Data' than to ask the team their thoughts on working at Geolytix. ",
      "content": "At the end of July we excitedly announced that GEOLYTIX has been shortlisted for the Data IQ Awards for 'Best Place to Work in Data'. Since the day Geolytix came into being we've been telling our customers where to go; how many stores, who to acquire, where to open and how to optimise home delivery and click & collect operations. But why use Geolytix?It all comes down to our people. Geolytix is us. Relationships really matter; we are a team of individuals each with unique skill sets who cheer each other on and love spending time together. Our founders, self proclaimed data geeks, have cultivated a company grounded on data and people and as we celebrate 10 years of Geolytix this hasn’t changed. People, Trust, Innovate and Be the Best aren’t just values written on our company website but values that we genuinely live by everyday.\"As a smaller company we're delighted that being shortlisted helps to shout about Geolytix and encourage even more great people to join the team. I'm proud of our people and so pleased that we have received this recognition - there isn't a team out there that deserves it more.\" - Sarah, Chief Operating Officer Data is our backbone. Our team is made up of some absolutely amazing and dedicated individuals who support Geolytix and its data backbone. From obtaining data from far-fetched countries (our latest include Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Thailand), to supporting our client projects and MAPP, no question or task is too much for the data team. \"We all know the truism of ‘rubbish in rubbish out’. Absolutely nothing we do would have any value without the accuracy of our underlying data. There’s certainly no doubt our Data Team have ‘worthwhile’ work. Sometimes it’s a hard slog of cleaning and checking, other times there’s a eureka moment when we find a fantastic dataset in a new market. And then there’s the datasets that we lovingly craft and shape until we have a bright new shiny GEOLYTIX data product. Without doubt the Data Team at Geolytix are in high demand and well loved. The work is varied and we all cheer each other on. I’m tempted to refer to Squirrels, Beavers, and Geese - for any fans of leadership strategies!\" - Samantha, Commercial DirectorGiving back to the data community is vital. As well as being heavy users of open data (e.g. census), we see huge value in and are proud to contribute back to the open data community. We release (and maintain) a number of open datasets, including Retail Points (our most popular open dataset) which contains the details and co-ordinates of all supermarket locations across the UK and is updated once a quarter. We were recognised for our contributions to the community and won the Open Data Institute Open Data Business award, presented by Sir Tim Berners-Lee.\"We always knew that the reasons for founding Geolytix were centred around it's people. We soon realised without open data Geolytix would not exist as we use it every day. In return we release our own open data, which along with making us happy allows us to provide better quality data and analytics to our customers and establish Geolytix in the market place.\" - Sarah, Chief Operating OfficerWe've supported flexible working from day one. We know just how important a work-life balance is, and this has been recognised from the day Geolytix first opened its doors. Whether its colleagues choosing to work part time so they can regularly volunteer, continue their studies, or work hours that fit around being there daily for school routines, this is part of the Geolytix normal. Martin’s 2 days a week volunteering for Mudlarks makes us particularly proud and we were delighted to donate our recent fundraising efforts to this small charity. \"I've been enjoying the benefits of flexible working ever since I started at Geolytix, as it allows me to continue my career, as well as volunteer at Mudlarks, a local charity supporting adults with learning disabilities. Prior to the pandemic, I volunteered one day per week, but with lockdown, there was a shortage of volunteers, and as an essential care service, Mudlarks needed to try to stay open. I wanted to do my bit to help, and so asked if I could reduce my days at Geolytix to three, to enable me to volunteer for two days a week. There was no hesitation in agreeing to this, in fact it was really positively supported. A great example of truly flexible, flexible working!\" - Martin, AssociateArabella, our latest addition to the team has joined us over the summer to gain work experience before heading off to UCL to study Maths. Diving straight in to work experience after leaving school, she has already tackled her first big data set, and survived her first team lunch. \"Spending my summer interning at Geolytix has been invaluable; I was included, counted on and valued as a member of a team from day 1. I got the opportunity to work in each department and learn numerous new skills in an industry I would wouldn’t have had the experience to otherwise.\" - Bella, InternPhysical and mental health is a top priority. Geolytix is a team without hierarchy; instead all doors are open and team communication is encouraged. Our weekly team meetings even include a spin the wheel, and whoever it lands on takes 2 minutes to talk through their week; it could be projects they've been working on, data they have found particularly fun to work with, or (as often is the case), successes and challenges at home - putting up a new shelf, painting their house top to bottom or attempting to buy a car! \"Joining Geolytix in January 2021, meant a virtual start, and this was something I was so worried about - what if I had questions? How will I get to know people? I needn't worry. Everyone is so friendly at Geolytix, I couldn't have asked for a warmer welcome, and the support hasn't wavered now I'm not the new kid on the block. The team were right when they said everyone's door is always open (and there are no silly questions).\" - Kate, Communications OfficerDonna wrote a brilliant blog on how our team spirit and colleague support has made not only an enjoyable work environment but helped with overall wellbeing. We’ve supported Donna to achieve a mental health training qualification ensuring support is available for anyone who requires it.\"Working at Geolytix is like being with your friends and having a productive day in the process! Laughing is a guarantee, getting help and advice is easy, being supported and being supportive is easy! It’s how a workplace should be. It should never feel like a chore and this definitely doesn’t!\" - Donna, Office ExecutiveDeveloping our people to be the best they can be is part of our core. Allowing colleagues the flexibility and space to discover new technology and techniques whilst delivering for our clients is an important aspect of our culture.\"I enjoy working in Geolytix as this company is a \"family boutique\" which 'modus operandi' is based on human relation but still enables to deal with the bigger clients. There is a lot of freedom in how you do things but also support when you need it. A great and fun team to be a part of\" - Jacek, Director (Central Europe). We are particularly proud of the apprenticeship scheme we launched in 2019. Rebecca joined us 6 months before the pandemic hit and has since achieved a Distinction in Data Analysis Concepts. Learning remotely with only virtual support from the team is no mean feat and is both a credit to Becca and the colleagues that supported her through the apprenticeship.\"The majority of my apprenticeship ended up being completed virtually, which came as a huge surprise! However, with the support of all of my colleagues at Geolytix and the resources that were made available to me, it went smoother than I could have ever imagined. I enjoyed developing both professionally and personally with Geolytix during the apprenticeship scheme and I am still continuing to do so almost 6 months after completing it.\" - Becca, Data AnalystWe are one team. With a team of 38, people are often surprised when they find out we have offices in: London, Leeds, Tokyo, South Africa, Poland, China and (with our intern Anusha recently joining), LA. With the team spread across multiple time zones, we work hard to ensure we are still one team, where everyone's voice is heard and input valued - no matter the time difference. \"Even though I haven't met my colleagues in person for 20 months because of the pandemic, and I'm 6000 miles (and 8 time zones) away, Geolytix still makes me feel like an integral part of the team. We all collaborate closely every day to deliver great projects to our clients, wherever they happen to be\" - Luke, Business Development Director APACOur relationships and respect go beyond our work interactions. In the days where we had more freedom, highlights include a rounders game in a thunderstorm, surviving a murder mystery evening in Devon and navigating the Aude river in a kayak. The events of 2020 saw our social lives move to a virtual setting but that didn’t stop us. Fizz Friday moved to zoom, we walked the length of the Great Wall of China and then across the USA, and our Great Bunny Bake Off and Christmas hat creations were an opportunity for some creativity and competitiveness.\"Right back from when I joined in 2015 when we were a team of 7, social & team activities have been an integral part of the GEOLYTIX ethos. Since then we’ve been shuffleboarding, embarked on a Monopoly pub crawl, taken part in the JP Morgan corporate running race, canal-boated down the Regent’s Canal and even travelled to France for an ‘away week’. People are at the heart of GEOLYTIX and it really is extraordinary to work with such a wonderful bunch of people. When the majority of your time is spent at work, it is so important to get on well with your colleagues (who are actually also great friends) and this has certainly helped to strengthen the business as a whole.\" - Jasmin, MAPP Product OwnerOur Christmas hat party of 2020 was a real winnerTitle Photo (without award logo) by Jason Dent on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Is Food Delivery catering for the rural?",
      "date": "Wed Aug 25 2021 09:35:53 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/is-food-delivery-catering-for-the-rural/",
      "excerpt": "The pandemic has brought us a 'new normal'; one such shift has been housing demand. With people looking to relocate to homes outside the city, we look at whether Food Delivery is catering for the Rural. ",
      "content": "As the UK continues to adjust to post-lockdown life, exactly how the “new normal” settles remains to be seen. One industry which has seen major changes is F&B, more specifically in food delivery. Delivery sales have increased substantially in the wake of the pandemic.During this time, I’ve moved out of Central London, from Zone 2 to Zone 6. One of the first things I noticed about my new area is the reduced takeaway options available to me now, and how this varies by platform. This got me thinking about the main food delivery operators, and if there are differences in coverage.The map below shows an estimate of takeaway catchments for each of the 3 main food delivery brands (with each catchment assumed as a 2.5 miles maximum distance)*:Base map and data from OpenStreetMap and OpenStreetMap FoundationWhilst Deliveroo has the most choice (in terms of sheer volume of takeaways), Just Eat has by far the highest level of coverage, with ~90 % of the UK’s population covered by a Just Eat delivery option (vs. ~65% for both Uber Eats and Deliveroo). This higher coverage rate is largely driven be greater coverage in more rural areas, where Uber Eats and Deliveroo tend to focus on more urban/higher population areas.We can prove this using Geolytix’s urbanity scale. The average urbanity for a takeaway on Just Eat is indeed less urban than for Uber Eats or Deliveroo. Note an urbanity of 1 represents a very urban location, and 9 a very rural location:Back to choice. By extracting takeaway counts by Shopper Town, we can identify which areas have the highest number of takeaway outlets with online delivery options. Unsurprisingly, Central London, Birmingham, and Manchester rank in the top 3 by number of takeaway outlets. Where there are people, there are takeaways. If we look at Population per Takeaway Outlet, the results would be as seen below...The Shopper Towns above have the most takeaway choice per capita for people using the three main online delivery platforms. Looking further down the list, my own Shopper Town does indeed have less choice, both in terms of sheer choice, and per head. So mystery solved. Note: these counts exclude takeaways not on the platforms, coverage for these platforms is typically best in more urban areas.One last thing. Since I’m sure lots of us are headed to the seaside before summer is over, how about a Fish and Chips map (or rather, % of online takeaways which serve fish and chips):Base map and data from OpenStreetMap and OpenStreetMap Foundation. Averages are used where counts are lowThe analysis above is using our data from 2020. As these platforms have continued to grow over the past year, it is likely that the number of takeaway options on each has also grown.Danny Hart, Data Scientist at GeolytixPhoto by Kai Bossom on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Mobility Data – A tale of two IKEA's in Bucharest",
      "date": "Wed Aug 18 2021 12:05:30 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/mobility-data-bucharest-ikea/",
      "excerpt": "Using mobility data, we look at the catchment areas around two major shopping parks in Bucharest - anchored by IKEA stores. ",
      "content": "One of the beautiful things about mobility data is that it is global. Volumes vary by market and quality and cost varies by supplier, but we’ve now used the data in projects across the world for different purposes – from the UK to Thailand, Korea, Australia, Germany, Poland, Kazakhstan, and many more in between.We’ve most recently been using Huq data to look at catchments in Romania, and thought we’d share a nice visual. We’ve looked at two major shopping parks in Bucharest – both of which happen to be anchored by IKEA stores (we haven’t been working with IKEA on this – but if you’re reading this, we’d love to 😊). We have buffered the shopping parks, identified devices that are active in each, and then linked these back to the suitably anonymised level of geography that is inherent in the data, to allow us to ascertain home location areas.We’ve then visualised this to show the proportion of devices from any given home location area that are seen in Baneasa in Yellow, and Pallady in Blue, giving us an immediate view of catchment extent and, where there are areas with both yellow and blue, overlap.Proportion of devices from any given home location area that are seen in Baneasa or PalladyThe results are reassuringly intuitive – and the great news is, if you’re a retailer in Romania (or anywhere else), and you want to understand your catchment extents and profiles, it’s possible (and maybe surprisingly affordable) for us to do this for your portfolio too.Please drop us a line to have a chat - \nUK and Europe: ben.purple@geolytix.com or tim.pickworth@geolytix.com\nAPAC (and rest of the world): luke.whittam@geolytix.com\n\nPhoto by Alexander Isreb from Pexels"
    },{
      "title": "How to juggle freelance work with a research degree: a masters guide",
      "date": "Tue Aug 17 2021 08:58:04 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/how-to-juggle-freelance-work-with-a-research-degree-a-masters-guide/",
      "excerpt": "Oliver Hall recently joined Geolytix as a freelance software configuration developer, whilst completing his Masters at the University of Leeds. Here he discusses juggling masters work, a new job and multiple laptop screens...",
      "content": "A wiseman once told me that if you are ever offered a work phone, turn it down, for you will spend the rest of your life carrying two phones everywhere. The first thing I learned whilst undertaking a full-time masters degree alongside freelance work with Geolytix was that this advice needs to be extended for the post-COVID era.Tip 1: Try and avoid taking on new laptops. I currently have four screens, only one of which belongs to me. A personal laptop, a university issued laptop, and Geolytix issued laptop, and a second monitor. That is more laptops than one man needs, and it is certainly more laptops than can fit in my backpack. It’s a nightmare.The infamous four laptops (and my London mug of course!)Aside from the proliferation of laptops in my house, the post-COVID era has also been noticeable through the advent of flexible working, it is the new-normal, or so they say. Some companies are embracing this more than others, so choose wisely.Tip 2: Find yourself a degree or a job that allows for flexible hours. I have been fortunate in this instance. Geolytix made it clear, even at interview stage, that they were prepared to be very flexible with the hours I worked, and it has certainly been a benefit. There have been weeks where my MSc has been very quiet, and likewise, weeks where Geolytix have been very busy. Working with such a flexible company, coinciding with a self-led degree, has allowed me to tailor my time, clawing back my time freelancing when my MSc is getting busy, and offering extra days to Geolytix when they are busy. It’s a case of give and take.That said, you can have too much of a good thing. And allowing yourself to get too flexible, well, that is a not a good thing.Tip 3: Try and retain structure. This is most important for your degree. I’ve not found that flexibility with Geolytix has meant that I have had a tendency to slip back to first gear, because at the end of the day, you have people counting on you, and deadlines to meet, you have to get it done. But taking one’s foot of the gas with regards to my MSc… which has one deadline… in 12 months… well, that’s a different story. It’s been very important for me to keep a structure, at least a semblance of a timetable, lest I find myself floating towards the sofa and treating my non-Geolytix days as time off: four-day weekend, anyone? Try and make sure you do your job and your degree on the same set of days each week, structure and flexibility are both important. As my father used to say: Everything in moderation.Now, I don’t want to sound like a guidance councillor, but perhaps the biggest benefit of maintaining freelance work alongside a research degree is transferable skills.Tip 4: Take the opportunities that come your way and don’t be afraid to push yourself. I did my undergraduate degree in Geography. My MSc involves creating a composite index to measure loneliness in the UK, it’s part-sociological, part-statistical, part-GIS. So how did I end up freelancing as a software configuration developer? Transferable skills and extra-curricular courses. The University of Leeds offered me a research and development grant; with this I took courses in R and SQL, mostly statistics based, but also for spatial analysis. I quite liked coding and applied to a data analyst role with Geolytix. Instead, they encouraged me to apply for a role that was part data analyst and part software configuration development. A little bit trepidatious, I applied, and to my surprise, I was offered the role (imposter syndrome). I am now learning JavaScript, HTML, CSS and more. Through both freelancing and my degree, I have developed skills in several different coding languages - and some knowledge of JavaScript (I’m working on it). I wouldn’t have got here if it wasn’t for taking advantage of the development grant that we were offered from the University of Leeds, and then jumping into the deep end with a software development job – well, lightly pushed into the deep end, I suppose.So, structure and flexibility can be friend or foe, you have to learn to balance it. Extra-curricular courses are definitely a good thing, they can open doors you hadn’t even considered before. Jump into the deep end. And for sake of your sanity and your electricity bill, try and keep the laptops to a minimum.Oliver Hall, Freelance Software Configuration Developer at Geolytix Photo by vadim kaipov on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Marugame Udon - Liverpool Street’s new lunch and evening spot",
      "date": "Thu Jul 29 2021 12:28:09 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/marugame-udon-liverpool-street-london/",
      "excerpt": "Last week, Jas, Chris and Kate were fortunate enough to be invited to the soft opening of Marugame Udon, an authentic Japanese Udon restaurant, located a short walk from Liverpool St Station in London. ",
      "content": "With over 800 restaurants in Japan - and a further 250 across Asia, the US and Russia, Marugame Udon has opened its first European store, in London, UK. Marugame's first UK restaurant is in a prime location on Middlesex street, opposite Eataly and just a stone's throw away from Liverpool Street station. Located within a Food & Beverage ‘hub’, as identified by one of our data products, Marugame sits alongside a number of well-known restaurants including Nando’s, Honest Burger and Franco Manca. Its prominent, triangular, corner unit (previously occupied by Wahacca) straddles both Middlesex and Widegate Street and at 4,000 sq ft with 100 covers it is a decent size. You can’t miss it as you turn into Middlesex Street from Bishopsgate.This lively part of Liverpool Street benefits from city workers, tourists and families alike. The quickness of food turnaround, together with it’s click & collect operation (coming soon) caters well to the busy city worker. At the same time, the bustling atmosphere of the restaurant and the ability to customise your meal at the condiment station, together with it’s affordable price point make it a fun experience for families, friends, students and tourists.A number of pubs & bars surround the restaurant, meaning not only does it benefit from lunch time trade (such as workers popping out in their lunch break), but trade will also extend well into the evening.Marugame Udon is ideally situated within (and surrounded by) Food and Beverage HubsThe concentration of restaurants in the area works well, with customers able to choose from a number of different cuisines in very close proximity. We also spotted another Japanese restaurant - Japanese Canteen - just 100m away. A quick comparison of menus shows that Marugame appears to be marginally cheaper (£6.45 vs £7.95 for Chicken Katsu) - prices at Marugame start from £3.45! It may be that this slightly cheaper price point, together with its more prominent location helps it to win more customers. The menu offer between the two restaurants also differs, with Marugame focusing on udon & tempura, whilst Japanese Canteen has an extensive offer of sushi and even some Korean dishes on offer.Kate, Jas and Chris with some very empty plates!'Masters of Handmade Udon Noodles', they say 'Centuries of tradition [are] served fresh in every bowl'; a tradition which originally started in the Kagawa Prefecture in the southern part of Japan. What makes Marugame stand out from the crowd is that these noodles are made fresh every day - and with the open-plan kitchen, guests can see this happen as soon as they walk in. Marugame Udon embraces the hustle and bustle of a traditional Japanese Udon kitchen; as you walk in the door you’re hit not only with the aromas from the open kitchen, but also the life and soul of the chefs within. Grabbing a tray, you make your way along the kitchen, selecting your main dish, watching it being made fresh right before your eyes. You then have the option to add on an array of Tempura and Omusubi, which are presented in the kitchen in a self-serve manner - you pick what takes your fancy! As seen in the image above, the menu is ideally located as soon as you walk in, with both dish descriptions and visuals helping you decide what to choose. Visualising the food - instead of simply writing it on a menu - is commonplace in Japan; typically restaurants will even display plastic or wax replicas in their windows. This acts as both an enticement as well as informant - showing patrons what is on offer inside (great if you don’t speak the language). Speaking of language, the toilets at Marugame Udon teach you everyday Japanese phrases, so you can say Thank You in Japanese on your way out! The last stop before taking your seat is the condiments and drinks station, where you can customise your dish with herbs, spices, sauces and additional toppings, such as spring onions. The team were incredibly attentive, ensuring that all surfaces were sanitised and wiped between customers.No expenses were spared when it came to the décor; as soon as you walk through the door, it’s like you’ve walked through the wardrobe and into Narnia. This instant sense of place is great, as Marugame Udon is perfect for both quick bites to eat on your lunch break, or a slower-paced meal with friends and family. The restaurant layout accommodates this, with both individual and shared tables (split by moving sliders seen in the image above), seating solo diners and bigger parties. The smallest details, such as the light fittings design, were also taken into careful consideration We opted for window seats - perhaps not the wisest idea during a heatwave - but it was lovely to watch people outside noticing the attention Marugame Udon was getting, becoming curious as to what was inside.As soon as the doors opened, a queue had formed!For Kate, the standout part of the experience was the care and professionalism taken when dealing with allergies - having a nut allergy herself, and experience in hospitality management, Kate is well versed in restaurant allergen protocol and the team at Marugame Udon went above and beyond to ensure not only was her dish nut free, but her nerves were settled too.After being asked for allergens, the staff produced an Ipad with a filter feature, allowing Kate to filter all the dishes by the 13 main allergens; after ‘pre-ordering’ with the host, Kate was given her order on a purple post-it which she handed to the kitchen team over the counter. Everyone in the kitchen line was informed of the allergen, ensuring thorough hand washing and utensil changes to avoid cross-contamination. The open kitchen layout seen below certainly helped reassure Kate by visualising the whole process.Additional steps were also taken; Kate was given a purple tray (instead of the usual cream) ensuring the kitchen team along the line was aware of the allergen, and a chef had her tempura and omusubi prepared and waiting.Anyone with allergies knows just how nerve-wracking heading out to a new restaurant can be; the team at Marugame Udon were well prepared and very professional without making Kate feel like she was holding people up - or being a hindrance.Marugame Udon have already announced the opening of three other London stores:\nCanary Wharf - Coming Autumn 2021\nSt. Christopher's Place - Coming Autumn 2021\nThe 02 Arena - Coming September 2021\n\nThe team at Marugame Udon have worked with Geolytix to help become more strategic in their approach. Using our GeoData and mobility data in MAPP, within a few clicks of a button they can bring up all the information they need in order to assess a potential location. Sonia Traore at Marugame Udon said:\"Geolytix support has been amazing, and MAPP has been an invaluable tool to inform our site search\".We couldn't recommend Marugame Udon enough, and will definitely be visiting for an Udon bowl again soon!Jasmin Fitzpatrick & Kate McGoldrick, Product Owner and Communications Officer at Geolytix Photo's are Authors Own"
    },{
      "title": "Conducting international business from your own home",
      "date": "Thu Jul 29 2021 08:55:25 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/conducting-international-business-from-your-own-home/",
      "excerpt": "Luke has been based in Japan for 16 years, with nearly 4 of those at Geolytix. He supports our customers in the huge and fast-changing APAC region applying over 20 years of experience in network planning for a wide-range of leading retailers and brands.",
      "content": "Although Geolytix have several bases in the APAC region, in Tokyo, Shanghai/Guangzhou and Melbourne, over the last 16 months we have had to adapt to the challenge of managing projects in countries where we do not have feet on the ground. In normal times we are firm believers in spending time in-market, both to engage in-person with our customers to gain a deeper understanding of their requirements, and to walk the streets and experience first-hand the market and the sector that is the focus of a given project.We have had to gather all our team-wide experience of living and working in markets in the region and combine this with a robust engagement-model with our clients. This includes frequent touchpoints to review progress and to ensure insights from the client teams on the ground are built into our approach.Necessity is the mother of invention and we have made it work surprisingly well. In April 2021, Geolytix was awarded the Queens Award for Enterprise: International Trade, instilling the idea that we are a small but global firm. This is something we are proud of (and keen to hold on to); Luke has previously written about our international projects in over 50 countries and counting! We endeavour to continue to grow our global reach, having recently showcased our mobility data in Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan and Thailand, as well as a new site selection process in Warsaw, Poland. Despite this, the opportunity to get back on the road again still cannot come soon enough - you can't beat a good old-fashioned site visit! Luke Whittam, Business Development Director at GeolytixPhoto by Tina Witherspoon on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "From South Korea to the UK : Understanding 'how busy is this road?'",
      "date": "Wed Jul 28 2021 09:36:02 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/from-south-korea-to-the-uk-understanding-how-busy-is-this-road/",
      "excerpt": "We introduce you to one of our most ambitious data networks we have created - a modelled value count for every major road in the county of operation; we started with South Korea.",
      "content": "We wrote in a previous blog that one of the most common questions asked us is “how busy is this road?” It’s a question asked by clients with drive-thru format stores, petrol station forecasts, dark stores and restaurants wanting to break into the booming delivery market, to name but a few. When we were approached by a South Korean client who wanted to incorporate traffic and road utilisation in the modelling of their network blueprint to help identify potential drive-thru sites, we realised we might need to build a new dataset for the job. It was one of the most ambitious data networks we have created; a modelled value for traffic count for every major road in the country of operation - an international version of our UK Road and Traffic dataset.For the baseline road network we decided to work with what was already openly available – pulling data available for South Korea from Open Street Map. Using an open source converter, we then processed the data to extract the Roads as a reputable network.In order to validate our modelled traffic values (essentially confirm our data was correct), we then needed some actual traffic counts. Luke, in our Tokyo office, discovered this exact data set from Topis. With all of this, we were ready to start modelling!To ensure we could accurately confirm traffic flow between our known survey points, we:\nUsed the routability of the road network\nExploited the power of graph theory calculations\n\nWhat is graph theory, you might ask?Graph theory is the study of a network of related objects where the vertices (or, points) are related (connected) to each other by edges (or, lines).Vaideshi Joshi draws a perfectly simple network diagram indicating both the vertices and edges.Graphs are used in a diverse number of fields, such as helping explain social networks (its in the name). We briefly need to explain the two different types of graphs: Directional and Non-Directional. Again, Vaideshi Joshi draws diagrams that easily explain this somewhat complicated matter.Essentially, undirected graphs can travel in any way between the nodes, whereas directed graphs have a set direction that they have to follow.How does this link to social networking?Facebook is an undirected graph network; if I add you, you must add me back in order to be friends (friendship is a two-way street) and so the edges between the vertices must be unidirectional (as in, you have to be able to travel both ways).Twitter however is a directed graph network; I can follow Beyoncé but she wouldn’t have to follow me back (sadly). The caveat here is, that if Beyoncé were to follow me back, not only would I be over-joyed, but it wouldn’t become undirected. I would simply get a second edge going between the vertices, as Beyoncé could unfollow me at any point.I digress – but hopefully you now have a somewhat understanding of the graph theory.Back to roads!Roads are essentially a network of connected junctions (think back to the vertices and edges):\nIf we know the distance (in real space) between these junctions, we can give the edges a weight\nIf we know if the road is one way or not, we can give the edges a direction\n\nSo we now have a weighted, directed network which we can do some pretty cool things with!Graph algorithms are uses in a multitude of ways, such as:\nCommunity detection (how do the vertices group together, e.g, do they cluster?)\nFinding the shortest path\nMeasuring connectedness\n\nThis final point, measuring connectedness, was essentially our golden ticket to inferring the traffic counts on the network. It helps us determine just how busy a road is likely to be.We used the algorithm called betweenness centrality; it essentially measures the importance of each vertices in the flow through the network, giving a score of influence by assessing how many times a vertices is used in the shortest path between two other nodes.We can visualise this easily when looking at how betweenness centrality is used in social sciences; take your team for example – who is the most important person in the team when it comes to the flow of information?For us, it gives us a measure of how utilised a road is based on the extensive number of different paths that can be made through the network – if a road is likely to be used on the most journeys, we would think it is likely to have the most cars on it.Lets bring it back to South Korea.We had 1,180,756 roads in South Korea to work with, and because of this scale of network, we needed some horse power (and a lot of coffee!)We used a Google Cloud Dataproc machine, to get Hadoop, an open source data processing wonder-machine to do some of the heavy lifting. We got to work writing a script that would calculate the betweenness of the edges based on the shortest paths – remember, we are trying to pinpoint the likely busiest roads.Technical jargon coming up…We calculated the betweenness of the edges based on shortest paths within a certain depth of the vertices (we created a radius around each vertices). In theory, betweenness is based on calculations, however, in reality it is just too much calculation and after a certain threshold you gain no more insight through calculating more and more routes.Once we assigned the surveyed traffic counts to their nearest roads, and applied any relative urbanities to the network, we used a delta difference approach to then smooth these traffic counts across the network. With some final tweaking we were happy with the outputs and incorporated this into our clients network blueprint.This then helped then identify opportunities for new drive-thrus.At Geolytix we aren’t afraid of a challenge, we like to push the boundaries of the data we work with and are constantly creating new datasets or improved the ones we have created over the years.A prime example would be the Modelled Traffic Volumes in our Road & Network data pack.Our Road & Network data pack is a staple Geolytic product used frequently both in-house and by clients. Based on OS data (including the Meridian 2 product and the Open Roads) we keep these topologically correct street geometries up to date.We also, consolidate, clean and maintain the Department for Transports traffic volume survey data, which is comprised of almost 30 thousand observation points across the UK. Whilst it is representative and well-regarded quality-wise, it can be rather challenging to disaggregate it properly at road level.And then we remembered the work we did in South Korea and our brains started ticking. We could apply the same principal of betweenness centrality, making a graph model of all non-local roads in the UK. To remind, we would measure a vertices connectedness between other vertices based on shortest paths, indicating the important (busy) edges in the network.This was our starting point for disaggregating our real world traffic observations in a smarter way. This Modelled Traffic Volume dataset is fully functional in MAPP. As MAPP is an online mapping tool, you can visualise all UK roads, zoning in on individual sections to see our modelled average daily traffic volume, allowing comparison between sites without leaving your web browser.DfT observations (orange circles) demonstrate how the GEOLYTIX Modelled Traffic Volumes disaggregate values further, giving greater guidance for site selection and assessment.Chris Storey & Kate McGoldrick, Data Scientist and Communications Officer at Geolytix Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "The Wimbledon Effect",
      "date": "Tue Jul 27 2021 09:20:54 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/the-wimbledon-effect/",
      "excerpt": "Wimbledon was back this year, after taking a hiatus in 2020 due to the pandemic - the first time the tournament hasn't been held since the Second World War. \n\nThis year we could appreciate 'The Wimbeldon Effect' from another aspect - the boost in activity levels. ",
      "content": "When I was a kid, the ‘Wimbledon Effect’ meant suddenly having to wait hours for a tennis court to become free in the local park, as the nation’s tennis enthusiasts dusted off their rackets, donned their whites and headed out to emulate Steffi Graf and Pete Sampras on municipal concrete. In retail, it meant stocking up for the extra demand for Pimm’s, strawberries & cream, those quintessentially British luxuries that are the perfect accompaniment to an afternoon watching the action on Centre Court. Apparently, the Wimbledon effect is also an analogy for the way the City of London has historically attracted top financial service companies and talent from around the world despite having relatively few home-grown champions. But now I have stumbled across another Wimbledon Effect: the boost in activity levels that Wimbledon Village receives for the weeks surrounding the tournament. Wimbledon Village is a classified as an Urban Centre in the GEOLYTIX Retail Place data set, and it is on the classier side of our classy / brassy index when compared to Wimbledon ‘proper’, with the likes of Hobbs, Reiss and Space NK having stores there. It is also one of our Food & Beverage Hubs, with 12 pubs, clubs & restaurants including a branch of the Ivy, and it is a mere 10 minutes’ walk from the famous All England Club. I was in Wimbledon Village on the 23rd of June this year, the week that women’s qualifying started, and there was a definite buzz about the place with some impressive tennis-themed shop window dressings.One of the many impressive window displays in Wimbledon Village celebrating the return of the tennis tournament in June 2021With the GEOLYTIX Retail Recovery Index (RRI) we can see and measure this Wimbledon Effect. The RRI uses human mobility data to track changes in activity levels across more than 6000 retail places across the UK, benchmarked against pre-Covid levels. We can see in the chart below that whilst Wimbledon Village was lagging the London average recovery rate up until the end of May, it saw a big boost right from the beginning of June, two to three weeks before the tournament started. Activity levels then climbed even further, peaking at 45 percentage points higher than the London average in the week commencing 2nd July, as crowd capacity was increased in the build-up to the finals. I imagine a fair few Pimm’s were quaffed in the process.Do get in touch if you think that GEOLYTIX Retail Places and Retail Recovery Rates could give you the advantage (or if you are a fan of terrible tennis puns).Alison Moriarty, Associate at Geolytix Photo by Shep McAllister on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Tokyo Olympics - Summer in the City",
      "date": "Fri Jul 23 2021 10:15:46 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/tokyo-olympics-summer-in-the-city/",
      "excerpt": "Luke, our business development director based in Japan discusses the impact COVID has had on the largest and most complex sporting event in the world.",
      "content": "Minor confusion reigned in Japan the morning of the 19th July, as many people, referring to their calendars, wrongly thought the day to be a public holiday. In fact, the holiday had been moved to Thursday to adjoin a further holiday on Friday giving people a long weekend to coincide with the opening of the postponed 2020 Olympics. To say the build up to these Olympics has been troubled is something of an understatement, and there is no small amount of vocal opposition to the Games. Coupled with blistering temperatures and the threat of heatstroke competing with the now familiar COVID foe, it is fair to say the sense of anticipation is muted at best.But here we are. Personally, I might have downsized my expectations, but I am still looking forward to the Games. I love the longer running events (the Marathon will be held in the, marginally, cooler temperatures of Sapporo in the north) and I always enjoy becoming a temporary expert in the finer points of the weightlifting, dressage, or another random event!Many of Geolytix’s clients have had to do the same with their grand plans for brand activation opportunities being scaled way back in favour of more modest activities (if they are doing anything at all). In late 2019 and early 2020 we were busy building intricate models of how visitors and residents would navigate the city and interact with the event venues to support a range of creative initiatives from pop-up shops to free air-conditioned (and heavily branded) minibuses to shuttle people from subway stations to venues in the stifling heat. Sadly, these outputs have been moth-balled (and along with all the unsold half-price Tokyo 2020 merchandise in the shops) exists only as a reminder of what might have been.We have also been busy over the last year helping our clients with scenario planning, both Olympic related and more generally in Japan and across the region. Central to this has been leveraging mobility data in near real-time to help understand how the patterns of movement within cities is evolving as we navigate the pandemic, incorporating shifting channel preferences (offline to online) and increased working from home to use two prominent examples.The Olympic scenarios that have materialised have been at the more pessimistic end of the scale (with no international visitors or even local spectators). Despite this we are planning to get behind the athletes who have worked so hard for the opportunity to compete on the Olympic stage, while also retaining a sense of hope that life will start to converge on something approaching normal over the coming months.Luke Whittam, Business Development Director at GeolytixPhoto by Erik Zünder on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "3 months after joining Geolytix and I've finally met the team in-person",
      "date": "Wed Jul 21 2021 11:20:01 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/3-months-in-meeting-the-team/",
      "excerpt": "With offices now allowed to officially open, Lizzie - our latest associate- discusses how working from home didn't hinder the spirit and qualities of Geolytix shining through the virtual workplace.",
      "content": "Before joining Geolytix, I always knew of their forward thinking, innovative capabilities. Over 3 months into my new role, I can safely say that not only are those qualities true, but there are so many more things which make it a great place to work.Having only just ventured into the office to properly meet everyone in person, it is clear to see that the people are what make Geolytix tick. The collaborative approach to projects and ongoing focus to do things 'the right way' allow for a truly transparent relationship amongst both colleagues and clients. The friendly and welcoming nature of the team has allowed new starters (myself included) to get fully immersed in Geolytix life from the get-go.Knowledge sharing is a key part of the culture at Geolytix, which brings together the best minds for creating and executing new ideas that help optimise solutions for clients. What is clear is that spatial analytics is not limited to a particular industry and the breadth of clients seeking strategic decisions from our geographic datasets is more than I had anticipated. Ultimately, any sector with a geographic element can have even their toughest business questions answered much more easily with the power of data and maps.Since joining, I have been working on some great projects in the F&B sector, which have been particularly interesting as these businesses are starting to get back to normal after the pandemic. The wider Geolytix team, meanwhile, have continued to grow their international client base, won the Queen's Award for Enterprise as a result, added further capabilities into MAPP, created a data focused top trumps for the Euros and more recently rolled out an office recovery index for UK (to name but a few).The latter is particularly pertinent now July 19th (Freedom Day) has passed. Offices are allowed to officially open, and I expect my full time WFH will begin to balance out into something of a hybrid routine. Whilst there are challenges which come with starting a new job remotely, I am confident that the next 3 months will involve a whole lot more learning, innovation and hopefully some more drinks in the pub meeting everyone in person.The perks of a small team (and unusually sunny London weather) meant we could all meet up at the beginning of July for a rooftop birthday celebrationLizzie Dawson, Associate at GeolytixPhoto is Authors own"
    },{
      "title": "Has Yorkshire bounced back?",
      "date": "Tue Jul 06 2021 10:11:24 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/has-yorkshire-bounced-back/",
      "excerpt": "The impact of the opening of outdoor seating on mobility levels in Yorkshire, compared to pre-COVID (2019) and lockdown (January - April 2021).",
      "content": "INTRODUCTIONThis week saw a new major milestone set: July 19th. Plans to open nightclubs, ordering at bars and groups of more than 6 able to meet and eat out. Retailers have been capitalising on the ever changing 'historic date', dedicating entire website pages to 'June 21st outfits' - I wonder if they will rename these July 19th? Since our last report, indoor seating has opened which meant no more hiding under an umbrella sheltering your pint from the downpours; however we thought it would be interesting to see if Yorkshire 'bounced back' in the wake of outdoor eating opening. Similar to our London project, we have analysed the movement of unique mobile devices around our food and beverage (f+b) hubs across the UK; setting 2019 data as a base marker for an ‘average year’, January - April 2021 data as ‘lockdown’ and then April 12th - May 11th to gain an understanding of the impact of outdoor seating.Our f+b hubs were all created by us, making for a very unique data set. The hubs cover locally recognised ‘destination’ eating and drinking places across cities, large towns and tourist towns and were created by determining which are on the same or adjacent streets. We then pinpointed areas of a high concentration of these establishments. The final stage was a manual review, set to categorise the type of hub and whether it is predominantly eating, drinking or clubbing.It will be interesting to see how Yorkshire’s recovery fairs compared to London; as the UKs largest county, it is generally demarcated into 4 separate counties (for administration and geographical purposes). We have also followed suit with this demarcation, breaking our analysis down into:\nNorth Yorkshire – with f+b hubs in Harrogate and York\nWest Yorkshire – with f+b hubs in Leeds, Bradford, Halifax, Wakefield and Huddersfield\nSouth Yorkshire – with f+b hubs in Sheffield\nEast Ridings of Yorkshire – with f+b hubs in Hull\n\nAN ANALYSIS OF YORKSHIREGraph 1, which looks at Activity Levels ranging from 1 week before to 1 week after the opening of outdoor seating, shows clearly that the easing of restrictions has had an impact on all 4 Yorkshire counties; West Yorkshire bounced back almost instantaneously with a peak seen on Wednesday 14th April, maintained throughout that week. North Yorkshire saw dramatic recovery of activity levels on Saturday 17th April, and both West and North Yorkshire saw activity levels above the average seen across Yorkshire in its entirety.Whilst West and North Yorkshire saw significant increases in activity levels, South Yorkshire and East Ridings of Yorkshire sat slightly below the county average. However, both South and East Ridings saw their biggest improvements in activity levels on Friday 16th April, as opposed to Saturday 17th (North Yorkshire) and Wednesday 14th (West Yorkshire).Graph 1As with our London report, we found benefit in analysing the change in activity levels compared to both Lockdown and pre-COVID (2019). Maps 1 and 2 give a visual indication on which counties within Yorkshire have been recovering slightly better than others – akin to our London Borough Analysis.Map 1: The average weekly activity levels after the opening of outdoor seating, compared to 2019 activity levels (as a percentage)Interestingly, East Riding of Yorkshire has recovered the most successfully, only 37% below its 2019 activity levels, pipping North Yorkshire to the top spot by 1%. It is insightful to note the apparent divide in recovery (to 2019 levels) between North and East Ridings of Yorkshire, and South and West Yorkshire. Whilst the former are 37% and 38% below 2019 activity levels, the latter are still sitting 62% and 63% respectively, below their 2019 activity levels. Map 2: The average weekly activity levels after the opening of outdoor seating, compared to Lockdown activity levels (as a percentage)Again, as with our London report, we deemed it crucial to also analyse recovery compared to Lockdown activity levels – with restrictions and uncertainties still in place it would be surprising if a full pre-COVID recovery had been made.Map 2 analyses just that – the recovery in comparison with Lockdown, and the results are surprising. Whilst East Ridings of Yorkshire is still recovering extremely well, seeing a 258% increase compared to Lockdown, West Yorkshire has taken the top spot, with a 324% bounce back on Lockdown levels. Again, South Yorkshire seeming to struggle to with increasing activity levels – hopefully, we see an increase now that indoor eating has fully established itself again.AN ANALYSIS OF NORTH YORKSHIRE SPECIFICNorth Yorkshire, the home of York, Harrogate and Whitby – to name but a few- saw a 258% increase in activity levels compared to those experienced in Lockdown, not falling far off its 2019 activity levels either, sitting just 37% short. Graph 2, which compares the average activity levels by day of the week, indicates that Fridays and Saturdays having recovered the most compared to Lockdown levels, with an increase of 342% and 302% respectively. This is to be expected - who doesn’t love to go out for a drink at the end of the work week?However, surprisingly, it’s Thursdays that have recovered the most in relation to pre-COVID levels, falling only 28% shy of 2019 activity levels.These differences in recovery are made even more apparent as during Lockdown, the same number of unique mobile device pings were recorded across all seven days (apart from Saturday which saw just slightly more average activity).Graph 2AN ANALYSIS OF EAST RIDINGS OF YORKSHIRE SPECIFICEast Ridings of Yorkshire, the home Hull and Beverly – to name but a few – saw a 258% increase in activity levels compared to those experienced in Lockdown, not falling far off its 2019 activity levels either, sitting just 38% short. Looking at Graph 3, it is as expected that Fridays and Saturdays experienced the most recovery, with an average of 375% and 373% compared to Lockdown, respectively.However, Tuesdays are of note in East Ridings, with activity levels seen in April/May only 14% shy of pre-COVID levels – this is the best recovery in comparison to 2019 levels that the whole of Yorkshire experienced. What is going on in Hull on a Tuesday?Graph 3When looking at Graph 1 it must be remembered that activity levels in East Ridings of Yorkshire are lower than the other 3 counties, even pre-COVID. And so, whilst Graph 1 gives the impression that East Ridings hasn’t recovered as successfully as the other counties, that is in a comparison to them, and the Yorkshire average. However, when comparing against itself (Graph 3), it is apparent that East Ridings is recovering rather well.AN ANALYSIS OF SOUTH YORKSHIRE SPECIFICSouth Yorkshire, home to Sheffield and Doncaster – to name but a few – saw a 238% increase in activity levels compared to those experienced in Lockdown; this was the weakest recovery out of the 4 Yorkshire counties, and the same can be said for recovery compared to 2019 levels, with South Yorkshire 63% off its pre-COVID activity.In relation to 2019, Thursdays have recovered the best, falling only 51% behind pre-COVID mobility levels. Similar to East ridings of Yorkshire, Tuesdays have also recovered rather well, just 55% off 2019 levels.However, speaking to one of our team based in Sheffield, activity levels have been struggling to bounce back to what they were, and this is apparent when looking at Graph 4. Saturdays have struggled to bounce back the most, falling, on average, 79% short of pre-COVID levels. For comparison, Saturdays during Lockdown saw a 94% reduction in activity levels (compared to 2019), highlighting the true impact of the closure of non-essential venues.In further comparison:•\tNorth Yorkshire: Saturdays during Lockdown saw an 87% reduction in activity levels\n•\tEast Ridings of Yorkshire: Saturdays during Lockdown saw a 90% reduction in activity levels\n•\tWest Yorkshire: Saturdays during Lockdown saw a 95% reduction in activity levels\nAskTraders conducted a study into declining UK high streets in 2020, and Sheffield was placed as the 10th worst high street in the UK (scoring was given by analysing the opening and closures of banks, ATMs and retail places).{To note, both York and Leeds also placed in the Top 20 worst declining high streets in the UK (7th and 19th respectively), whilst Huddersfield, Hull and Doncaster placed 2nd, 4th and 16th (respectively) in the top-rated high streets – using same measurement.}Graph 4AN ANALYSIS OF WEST YORKSHIRE SPECIFICSouth Yorkshire, home to Leeds, Bradford and Wakefield – to name but a few – saw a 324% increase in activity levels compared to those experienced in Lockdown, the most significant out of all 4 of the Yorkshire counties. The same cannot be said when looking at recovery in comparison to pre-COVID, with West Yorkshire falling 63% short of its 2019 activity levels.Akin to North and South Yorkshire, Thursdays have recovered the best, falling on 54% behind 2019 mobility levels, also seeing a 367% increase on mobility levels experienced in Lockdown. Looking at Graph 5 however, the weekends have been struggling. Whilst Fridays and Saturdays have seen an increase of 517% and 421% respectively, they are still falling 93% and 95% behind pre-COVID mobility levels. This is to be expected; Fridays and Saturdays were hugely busy in 2019, likely due to the three Universities located in Leeds boosting the lively nightlife, alongside the growing popularity of dining ventures such as bottomless brunch. Having high levels of mobility in 2019 meant they essentially had ‘further to fall’, so rather we should be focusing on the encouraging signs of recovery compared to lockdown levels. Graph 5HAS YORKSHIRE RECOVERED?The data indicates clearly that Yorkshire is on the road to recovery, with mobility increasing in line with the lifting of restrictions on outdoor eating. Thinking back to April 12th – a historic date that will be remembered for some time – the weather was not exactly ideal for outdoor dining - although there are photos of very hardy Brits protecting their pints with umbrellas! It is therefore predicted that activity levels will continue to recover with the lifting of restrictions on indoor eating.Having analysed the impact of outdoor seating opening, it will be interesting to see whether there has been a dramatic spike in mobility after both May 17th (indoor seating) and July 19th. Chris Storey & Kate McGoldrick, Data Scientist and Communications Officer at GeolytixPhoto by Louis Hanselon on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Is Poland turning discount?",
      "date": "Wed Jun 30 2021 09:01:47 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/is-poland-turning-discount/",
      "excerpt": "With discounters taking more and more market share in Poland, we thought it would be interesting to look at the journey of grocery retail in Poland through the years and try and answer the question: 'Is Poland turning discount?'",
      "content": "Following my recent blog on the future of retail property developments I would like to share some of my thoughts on retail itself, in particular grocery - which is close to my heart given that I spent more than 20 years in the industry. I also thought now was prime time, in the light of recent rumours that Carrefour will follow Tesco and will sell its Polish operations. Apparently, KPMG, which has been appointed as the transaction advisor, is on the case and is looking for potential buyers. And it is not only Poland but also Taiwan. The same Taiwan which Tesco swapped with them for their Slovakia business around 15 years ago. How ironic!So, is Poland going to be left with discounters only? Already every fourth Polish Zloty spent in the grocery sector is spent in Biedronka, the number one discounter in the country (and still growing). Other discounters include Lidl - the master of discount - Netto, who recently acquired Tesco, and Aldi, who is still playing catch up, but getting stronger and stronger. All together the discounters have more than 30% of the grocery market in the country. This is almost like a little Germany. And I still remember the times when traditional super and hypermarkets were leading the way and my CEO used to say that he would not allow Poland to become a discount driven market. Obviously not the best statement from a businessman where money should talk, and it did. Letting customers make choices with their wallets, they finally opted for discounters.Biedronka is the largest chain of discount stores in Poland When I was a teenager a friend of my father who emigrated to Germany in the old communist times was so fascinated with the thrifty German culture that he would answer my dilemma of how it is possible that in one of the wealthiest countries on earth, almost half of society would shop in places which have merely 1000 SKUs and don’t really have a very exciting shopping environment - basically making the whole shopping experience rather boring. He replied to me with a bit of paternalism that \"every German before he or she makes a purchase watched every Deutsche Mark before he or she finally spends it\" (these were still the good old times before the EURO currency). It looks like this trend is now the case not only in Germany but in many other European countries; Poland is one of the first battlegrounds where it has prevailed, outperforming the culture of abundance.Let me take you through the journey of how it started and how it is going now. In the 90s when the new world started for Poles after the collapse of communism, the French were the first to come with their “state of the art, everybody envied them” format of a hypermarket. This thing was developed in the 60s after the horrific experience of the Second World War when people were still “hungry” and wanted to consume all the goods in crazy amounts. That is, in short, how the hypermarket was conceived and then transferred into tens of markets on all continents. Poland was one of the big battlegrounds together with China, except China was on a massive scale and a target for all global players; Poland was a great opportunity just for the Europeans. So, Leclerc was first, followed by Auchan, then Geant and Carrefour. In the end Tesco (who copied the French and doubled the size of their original superstore format) also joined the game. There were also Hit, Real, Allkauf, Ahold and Jumbo who copied the French too, but they did not last too long. All that was a bit crazy, but it really happened. The choice for the consumer however was great and people were flocking into the grand openings making the stores sales skyrocket. Grand openings at Allkauf (Left) and Carrefour (Right) attracted large crowdsBut what happened to Poland’s retail recently? In my opinion it became the kingdom of price. It is unbelievable that 30 years ago when we were 3 times poorer, overspending in hyper and supermarkets was triumphant, and those plenty-of-choice-shops were mushrooming all over the country. Now with much higher incomes, even with 150 thousand millionaires (according to the Credit Swiss Wealth Management Team), we watch every Polish Zloty even more. Is human nature the same everywhere that the richer you are the thriftier you become? There are several examples in the retail world to back this assumption. I have not seen any foreign markets where Lidl, Aldi or Costco have failed. On the contrary I have seen tens of market exits of traditional supermarket operators who were scraping big losses from their balance sheets like the recent Tesco or the rumoured Carrefour exit from Poland. Or in South Korea where neither Carrefour, Walmart, and Tesco - once the top 3 of the global retailers- succeeded (Tesco was the last one to leave the market in 2015). Another example from my native Poland, not grocery but fashion but with the same trend. Four years ago, LPP - the largest Polish fashion retailer - proudly announced the opening of their first trial premium brand flagship store in the best mall in the country. After not even a year of a sluggish performance the company very quietly closed the shop. Now they have completely turned around their strategy and are chasing another leading fashion retailer PEPCO, which is pursuing roll out of a successful discount format. LPP with their Sinsey brand have ambitious plans to roll it out in every market they operate. It is a smart format where 80% of range cost no more than 15 USD per item but is quite fashionable at the same time. I bought myself a pair of shorts from them recently and I am quite happy so far. Inditex on the other hand, who inspired LPP for their unsuccessful premium format trial, has been rumoured to be leaving Poland.Customers waiting outside both Pepco and SinsaySo what does the Poland retail scene look like now after the 30 years of the free market transformation? Much over 30% of grocery sector is in the hands of the discounters which, together with convenience, are the only ones to keep opening new shops. Hypermarkets and supermarkets keep closing their outlets or exiting the market. None of the premium Polish supermarket brands survived and Piotr i Paweł were the last one to go bust two years ago. Fashion will need to go through a huge transformation after COVID but what we have seen so far is that fashion discounter PEPCO - headquartered in a rather secondary city, also renown in the country as being thrifty (what a coincidence!) - turned out to have been voted top fashion brand in Poland. It has been successfully increasing their market shares in all of CEE and is now bravely entering wealthy and developed markets with their first store openings in Italy and Spain. What a paradox that when every year the world becomes richer and most intelligence agencies provide robust economic forecasts, the shoppers turn out more and more thrifty driving more price-oriented retail developments.Biedronka's stores in PolandThe question remains whether “wir sind alle deutsche” paraphrasing president Kennedy and the likes of Lidl or Aldi are going to dominate our high streets or retail parks. Would the fancy malls become fashion outlets? Should Zaras be replaced by PEPCOs? In my opinion people behave in a very similar way in every place on earth and in retail they value 2 features the most - value for money and quality. So, if you have that holy grail of the retail format where the operating costs are not more than 15% of the total sales you will always have a winning business with enough cash and ability to offer best prices. You can always outperform any competitor who's business model is more costly and who cannot match you on that very fundamental. The only thing left is to make sure that the onion, banana, or t-shirt are of good enough quality for customers to choose you over someone else. Business which is based on those fundamentals is simple, replicable and does not need too much nuisance in the offer so it can be transplanted from Berlin through Warsaw into Beijing or Delhi with almost same retail standards to be fulfilled.Really interesting times are ahead of us in retail so let us see if the trends carry on and whether other countries will follow Poland to become the little Germanys and last but not least whether the Carrefour really exists Poland the theme which sparked writing this blog, really happens or is it just a rumour. Jacek Biel, Director (Central Europe) at GeolytixPhoto by Josh Hild from Pexels"
    },{
      "title": "EUROS 2020(1): The GEOLYTIX Top Trumps",
      "date": "Tue Jun 29 2021 11:02:07 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/euros-2020-the-geolytix-top-trumps/",
      "excerpt": "With the EUROS in full swing (and our office sweepstake well under way) we thought we would honour our appreciation of geography and celebrate the stadiums hosting the EUROS - as well as the teams themselves! ",
      "content": "June 11th saw the start of Euros 2020 – a year late due to its COVID-induced postponement.We have fully embraced the Euros, with English, Scottish, Welsh, German, Italian and Polish representation within the Geolytix family, and additional sweepstake-related loyalties starting to come to the fore the deeper we go into the tournament.For a business like ours, where location is central to everything we do, the multi-location format of the Euros has meant we’ve been able to explore some of our data in the context of the various stadiums that the matches are being played in, across 11 countries.So – we’d like to introduce Geolytix Euro 2020(1) Top Trumps. For each of the grounds, we’ve pulled together our data on population, airport passengers, hotels, city purchasing power and (country) happiness score. We also threw in average sunshine a year as a wild card category – this data was sourced from Weather & Climate.Our population data is based on our global sprawls, which are built from GHS grid – satellite imagery, the city prosperity data is a combination of household consumption and population, and everything else is pretty self explanatory.Writing this on the day of the England Germany game, the English contingent are hoping that the Wembley vs Munich Top Trumps data gives a sign of things to come – with England beating Germany 4-1. More likely, it’ll be a 0-0 draw with Germany winning on penalties, these Top Trumps will be the most entertainment we’ll have this evening, and Dennis and Christoph will be unbearable tomorrow.Enjoy the tournament.Kate McGoldrick, Communications Officer at Geolytix Photo by Chaos Soccer Gear on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Department for International Trade Export Champions 2021",
      "date": "Thu Jun 17 2021 14:04:01 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/department-for-international-trade-export-champions-2021/",
      "excerpt": "Geolytix are proud to announce that we have recently been recognised as ‘Export Champions’ from the UK’s Department for International Trade.",
      "content": "Championing GrowthInvesting in stores and online retail is expensive, and so, with hundreds of years of retail experience within our company, Geolytix is often the partner of choice for global brands. Founded in 2011 and based in London, we have grown our International Business, with recent work including a grocer in Thailand, a fast-food retailer in Mongolia, a toy specialist in India and a global sports brand in Russia.As a team of 38, we help customers make informed decisions about how many stores, who to acquire, where to open, which format, how to optimise home delivery and click & collect operations. We build innovative data sets and market leading forecasting models, alongside tailor-made web mapping tools and highly experienced consultancy expertise, to provide comprehensive support to businesses who are seeking to grow.Whilst based in the UK, we also have offices in China, Japan, Australia, Poland and South Africa, and have worked on projects in over 50 countries in the last two years.Blair Freebairn, CEO says:“For such a small, independent company, the fact that we have grown so strongly internationally, and work with so many of the world’s leading retailers and brands, is a testament to the outstanding talent that runs throughout our business”.We pride ourselves on being a small but global powerhouse; our international growth has been achieved with no outside investment, instead being owned by us and our employees. Working across multiple global markets and sectors, our rapid growth and expansion overseas was recognised and celebrated this year with Geolytix also being awarded with a Queens Award for Enterprise: International Trade.Partnership with the Department for International TradeThe Department for International Trade (DIT) is a department operating with the UK’s Government that is dedicated to promoting and supporting international trade to help develop the UK and global prosperity.Export Champions, companies that have successfully sold overseas, are given the platform to help encourage and support businesses in developing their exporting skills alongside connecting them to opportunities that supports their international growth.We are incredibly appreciative to be given the opportunity to share our experience and knowledge in international trade with other businesses across a range of industries. Ben Purple, Director at Geolytix has been appointed to represent Geolytix as Export Champions, and says:“As everyone at Geolytix will testify, our expansion internationally has been exciting, and has been a steep learning curve for us. Being asked to be an Export Champion is a huge honour, but it certainly doesn’t mean we have all the answers. It just means we can hopefully share our experiences, help other businesses navigate some of the choppier waters, and be part of a collective experience to support each other. In the meantime, if anyone wants data on where people live and shop in Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, we stand by ready to support...”We look forward to supporting others to grow internationally. For more info please contact: ben.purple@geolytix.co.ukBen Purple, our Exports Champion AmbassadorTitle photo by Andrew Butler on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Life has changed, and so has retail...",
      "date": "Wed Jun 16 2021 08:51:54 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/life-has-changed-and-so-has-retail/",
      "excerpt": "With the one year mark of the start of the pandemic (and multiple lockdowns) far behind us, our Project Director based in China, thought it would be the perfect opportunity to discuss how life - and retail - has changed. ",
      "content": "One year! The world is so different after just one year…My mum became a guru of “Pin Duo Duo” mobile APP, which I’d never imagine could happen before, given she would rather queue in the banks for more than one hour than using an ATM … Well, I’d prefer seeing her bargaining in the markets… and I’m slightly worried about her eyes and neck sometimes.My 19-year-old niece, who grew up in the “digital environment”, is however changing in a different fashion: She has been “fed up” with “doing everything at home and online”. She and her besties, who used to be pure online shoppers, now become big fans of shopping malls. Their typical weekends would be a half day game of “room escape” or “role play in a detective scene”, then followed with a big team meal and hours of shopping at the neighbouring malls. Occasionally, she took her grandparents to the malls, clapping for their Bowling skill, and then taking them to various hotpot restaurants with always some mysterious coupons she got from various mobile APPs… BTW, her cosmetic used up much more quickly than last year.My colleague Lifan bought her first Electric Car, enjoying the half-an-hour power charging leisure, which she wouldn’t think of bearing in her old fuelling up days in a petrol station.And myself, seeing the wardrobe full of casual and sportswear now. Lots of “OL” (office lady) or even “smart casual” dresses have now been piled up deep in the corner – together with the high-heel boots, the last of their show time was nearly two years ago...Min. 80 online meetings with my colleagues or clients around the globe over the past year… after all of these I genuinely feel my IELTs score could hit 8 now! And facing a camera feels more and more natural. Some virtual site visits via google street views from the “down under” of Tasmania to the very north of Ulaanbaatar have made my life easier, but also left me missing the fun of experiencing and savouring local atmosphere in a different market and culture.If you are working in the retail related industry like me, a location analyst and retail trend observer, you’d be amazed by how much your life and work had evolved in the year of 2020.Every March marks the end of a financial year in my company – Time to review the past and look forward. We looked at our own business as well as the retail industry.What has happened in our life and ourselves, plays such big role in shaping the retail world! For this we have summarized some key changes we have observed in the retailing industry in mainland China - a slightly more serious 30-page report. Contact info@geolytix.co.uk for the edition!Coco Lin, Project Director at Geolytix Photo by Hanny Naibaho on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Will large malls be replaced by smaller, more convenient venues in Poland?",
      "date": "Thu Jun 10 2021 09:58:53 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/site-visit-warsaw-poland/",
      "excerpt": "As the world is slowly coming out of lockdown, we have been lucky enough to go on real site visits again; this week Jacek discusses his site visit in Warsaw!",
      "content": "Following my colleagues who have visited places in the UK and Australia I have undertaken a journey through some of the flagship retail destinations in my hometown of Warsaw. My visit is coinciding with Poland’s lifting the lockdown and most of the COVID restrictions since May 4th. For more than 5 weeks now all shops have been opened again - before, only essential services were allowed to keep trading such as supermarkets, pharmacies, bookshops and newsagents. Cinemas reopened last week, and restaurants started letting customers in from this weekend ­- until now people could only be served outside or order take-aways.The comeback to normality has been bumpy and varied from location to location. Overall, it looks like the busier downtown locations are still impacted the most, whereas smaller towns are back to 2019 levels of sales - sometimes they even exceed the pre-COVID performance. We are in the middle of a project for one of our clients assessing their portfolio in Poland and we will set off on a journey visiting their stores in Warsaw in various malls and retail parks. We will start with the most recent opening of Galeria Młociny on the northern outskirts of the city and then we will visit the best performing mall of Westfield Arkadia located in downtown Warsaw. The next mall on our map is Zlote Tarasy – which used to be a high footfall venue next to the Warsaw main railway station and we will finish off with one of the smaller convenience retail parks on the city western outskirts. Galeria Młociny.Galeria Młociny is the youngest of the malls in Warsaw and has been trading for only 2 years. It had a slow start and has struggled to be fully let for some time. The ambitions and expectations of the landlord were very high but were not quite in line with performance of its tenants. The first problem appeared to maintain quality of the big food offer – something that aspired to be a hero section of the centre. However such a category needs high volumes of constant footfall which really was not the case. Food operators, after a few months of accepting certain level of losses, started to look after their cash and a vicious cycle began - food quality was getting worse and worse, attracting less and less customers. One year later in the middle of COVID in summer 2020, a long-awaited Primark store finally opened their doors and helped increase footfall of the mall. As this is the only Primark in Warsaw and the brand is quite popular amongst Polish customers, Młociny managed to extend its catchment enhancing its awareness on the city retail map. It is doubtful however whether one great tenant can turnaround the fate of a 250 million PLN investment.Arkadia.Arkadia has been trading in downtown Warsaw for more than a decade. The centre established itself as the best mall in the country in a great location, with a dense and affluent catchment and superb tenant mix – a good blend of fashion, food, and leisure. Retail is anchored by a good quality Carrefour hypermarket and a variety of restaurants and a large, high quality food court. On the top floor there is a cinema. Although being a perfect revenue generator for any landlord, it was one of the hardest hit retail venues in the country. The centre is still 20-30% below pre-COVID footfall which is visibly seen walking through alleys or by judging car park occupancy levels on a Friday afternoon – you can easily find a parking space very close to any of the entrances into the mall, something unimaginable 2 years go. Nevertheless, we believe that due to its unique qualities, plus an excellent location with considerable affluent residential growth this mall is likely to have a bright future in the times ahead.Zlote Tarasy.Zlote Tarasy, located next to the Warsaw main railway station was probably one of the hardest hit by COVID in Poland. This mall is likely to have lost half of its footfall base and has not really recovered for the last few weeks since the reopening. The history of this retail place is not very smooth, as it had a really bumpy start. Given its railway station location, for quite some time after opening, it acted as more of a show room or a waiting room for millions of passengers from the station. It finally established itself as a successful retail destination despite being only 2 km away from Poland’s No1 retail place, Arkadia – the reported footfall from the peak times of trade was almost 20 million customers per year. It is quite depressing to see it today with empty alleys and shopping assistants chatting with each other which is usually a sign that not many customers have been served by them.Babice Retail Park.And finally, we arrive in a place which represents a gold mine for Polish retail market development these days – a convenience retail park anchored by a Biedronka grocery store with adjacent fashion discounters and general merchandise shops. The place is very well located to serve this affluent Warsaw suburb, is fully let, the car park is almost full and looks like everything is performing well.There has been a big increase in development of this type of retail format for some time. Even mid-pandemic, developers delivered more than 70 parks which translates to over 400 thousand sqm of GLA. This year an additional 27 parks have already opened and it's likely to beat the 2020 opening record. On the contrary, there were only 5 traditional shopping centres that opened in both 2020 and 2021, adding around 100 thousand sqm to the new space built.Is it over for large shopping centres?Now it’s time for some conclusions which I believe are representative for the entire Polish retail market, but are based on this small sample from Warsaw. We have witnessed questions asked and many discussions among retail and property professionals whether shopping centres are obsolete and should be replaced by other forms such as convenience or e-commerce. Some opinions in those conversations were that shopping centres would be fine as they are usually well placed, have good schemes and even if retail sales are shifting towards online the surplus space would be taken by leisure and food which both have been growing trends for more than last 10 years. Well, what we saw is that both leisure and food were hit the hardest by the pandemic and many businesses went bust. On the other hand, we are seeing that convenience retail parks were hardly impacted due to the nature of their development - direct access from car park, location in less densely populated areas not being impacted by shopping habits of the residents in a way the downtown residents have reacted to COVID.The trend of convenience retail parks outperforming traditional malls began some time before COVID. It started with provincial larger towns which were the last victims to accommodate malls before the retail parks expansion began. We have witnessed competition of the two formats in the places with more traditional shopping habits and seeking value for money offer and retail parks have turned out to be winning by offering both. Now due to COVID, every trend has accelerated, and we are seeing troubled malls even in larger and affluent markets, meaning billions spent on those huge developments are at stake. The malls as they are today will require a lot of good ideas to repurpose their current uses should the trend of negative double-digits continue, but some are for sure doomed to exist.Jacek Biel, Director (Central Europe) at Geolytix\n\n\n\nPhoto by Maksym Harbar on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Office Place Recovery",
      "date": "Wed Jun 09 2021 13:08:17 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/office-place-recovery/",
      "excerpt": "Through the last 15 months, we have been using mobility data and applying it within 8,000 of our Retail Place boundaries to produce a weekly read on activity levels across the UK.",
      "content": "With a steady uptick since the lifting of restrictions in April, our headline recovery rate approached 90% last week, with over three quarters of places in most Retail Place Types (e.g City Centres, Town Centres, Village Centres, Parades) now recording Medium, High, or Very High levels of recovery. However, with Retail Recovery continuing apace across most places, our focus has been drawn into those locations that remain significantly impacted. Retail Places in Airports and Rail stations are obviously seeing much lower levels of recovery. But otherwise, the main places that stand out are the Office Worker locations – with the big outstanding, long-term-implication question being the extent to which Office activity returns to ‘normal’. This clearly has huge relevance for retailers, F&B operators, landlords, office owners and occupiers. The answer to the question will fundamentally shape how these important and valuable places evolve and develop.To get as best a view on what is happening as possible, Geolytix have built out a new data product – Office Places. This has been built by identifying the Workplace Zones with the highest volume and density of people engaged in the type of work that has (historically at least) been performed in Offices. We have then joined these Workplace Zones where they are neighbouring and aggregated them to construct Office Place boundaries. We have then taken the top 110, which all have at least 3,000 Office Worker, and in the same way that we’ve done for Retail Places, we have then applied the mobility data to these boundaries. As expected, we can see the overall activity levels vs pre-Covid baseline in the Office Places is significantly lagging Retail Places.Retail Place Recovery vs Office Place RecoveryMapping these, there is interesting variation, with type of Office Work being an obvious differentiator (Banking / Financial Services activity levels in the City very low). The size of organisations, the nature of the buildings and their suitability for socially distanced, covid-safe return of work, and the ability for work to be undertaken away from the office are all factors that will influence the pace and extent of Office Place recovery.Central London Office Places by Recovery LevelOffice Place Recovery - BankWhilst lots of people have lots of different opinions on what the future of offices will look like, for organisations with presence in these locations, up-to-date data to help understand what is ACTUALLY happening and how things are shaping up will be invaluable as decisions are made on what the optimal use of space in these places looks like in the future.To find out more, please contact Ben or Tim at Geolytix (ben.purple@geolyix.com, tim.pickworth@geolytix.com)Title Photo by Israel Andrade on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "London has bounced back",
      "date": "Tue Jun 01 2021 09:24:33 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/london-has-bounced-back/",
      "excerpt": "The impact of the opening of outdoor seating on mobility levels in London, compared to pre-COVID (2019) and lockdown (January-April 2021) ",
      "content": "INTRODUCTIONThis week saw a major milestone in the UK… finally we can have a pint indoors – no more sitting under umbrellas sheltering our pints from the very timely British rain. We thought it would be interesting to see the impact of the first pint related milestone – April 12th, the day pubs and restaurants were able to open for outdoor serving; a date I imagine will never be forgotten.Using Unacast mobile ping data, we have looked at the movement of unique mobile devices around our food and beverage (f+b) hubs across the UK, setting 2019 data as a base marker for an ‘average year’, January-April 2021 data as ‘lockdown’ and then April 12th-May 11th to gain an understanding of the impact of outdoor seating.Our f+b hubs were all created by us, making for a very unique data set. The hubs cover locally recognised ‘destination’ eating and drinking places across cities, large towns and tourist towns and were created by determining which are on the same or adjacent streets. We then pinpointed areas of a high concentration of these establishments. The final stage was a manual review, set to categorise the type of hub and whether it is predominantly eating, drinking or clubbing.AN ANALYSIS OF LONDONThis first graph, which looks at Activity Levels ranging from 1 week before to 1 week after the opening of outdoor seating, indicates that the easing of restrictions has had a significant impact on all 6 London zones (compared to lockdown activity levels). Zone 1 for instance has seen an almost 6-fold increase in activity movements between the 5th and 18th of April.Graph 1ZONE ANALYSISWe also thought it was important to look at how each zone has ‘bounced back’ in relation to both ‘lockdown’ (January-April 2021) and ‘pre-covid’ (2019) levels.Analysing by individual zones it is not surprising that Zone 1 is still to bounce back to its 2019 levels, as workers are yet to return to offices, making that daily commute into central London in the numbers experienced in 2019.Graph 2I think it is rather important to remember that the 2019 activity levels in Zone 1 are exceptionally higher than in Zones 2-6, and so activity levels in central London did reduce significantly. Encouragingly, Zone 1 experienced the highest activity level increase compared to lockdown levels, with Fridays and Saturdays seeing a 352% and 317% increase, respectively.We expected to see the outer Zones would feel the positive impacts of outdoor eating slightly more; as people are working from home, its likely that they will venture into, and explore, surrounding areas to eat and drink, rather than travel into central London to do so.F+b hubs in Zone 4 are recovering very well, with Wednesday-Saturday experiencing an increase in activity level above those seen in 2019, pre-COVID.Graph 3Looking further into the f+b hubs within Zone 4, Beckenham’s activity levels have exceeded 2019 levels on all days bar Sundays. Of note is the increase seen on Fridays reaching 119% of 2019 levels.Graph 4BOROUGH ANALYSISWe also analysed at a Borough level, and it is interesting to see how each of the Boroughs have recovered – compared to both lockdown and 2019 activity levels.Map 1: The average weekly activity levels of each borough after the opening of outdoor seating, compared to 2019 activity levels (as a percentage)Map 2: The average weekly activity levels of each borough after the opening of outdoor seating, compared to lockdown activity levels (as a percentage)The maps highlight there is certainly impressive recovery across London; whilst central London is still struggling to recover to 2019 (pre-COVID) activity levels, they have bounced back the most compared to lockdown activity levels. This indicates that people are returning to central London, either slowly heading back into the office or venturing in for some social drinks with friends – even through the rain! Only the Borough of Havering is yet to reach the average weekly activity levels seen during lockdown – however, Tuesdays and Thursday-Saturday were above the lockdown average (by up to 67% on Thursdays!).The outer Borough’s however are where we are seeing the most recovery compared to 2019 activity levels, with even 6 Boroughs being only 4% off pre-covid activity, at most!RECOVERY IN COMPARISON TO LOCKDOWNWhen looking at the recovery compared to lockdown (January-April 2021) activity levels, the Borough of Westminster takes top spot. With the highest number of f+b hubs (totalling 495 eating, drinking and nightclub establishments), the opening of outdoor dining has led to an average 273% increase in activity, compared to lockdown.We should mention that although the Borough of Newham experienced an average of 345%increase in activity, we decided to remove this borough from the top spot as these results are likely due to Westfield Shopping Centre – whilst fantastic, we are interested in looking at the impact of food and beverage establishments!It did surprise us that activity levels on a Sunday in Westminster saw a 243% increase compared to lockdown levels; nowhere near beating the increases seen on a Friday and Saturday (471%and 433% respectively), it’s a huge difference compared to Monday’s (which have only experienced a 69% increase on lockdown activity levels).Graph 5Recovering activity levels have been low on Mondays across all the Boroughs, and we believe this could be due to the introduction of the hybrid week; flexible working could mean that Mondays are no longer being spent in the office which explains a reduction in central London. Again similar supressed activity in the suburban Boroughs are also being seen on Monday’s and this could be as people are having a ‘relaxed’ day after a weekend of socialising.Within the Westminster Borough itself, individual f+b hubs stand out. Leicester Square, with the highest number of nightclubs; Soho, with the highest number of drinking establishments; and China town, with the highest number of eating establishments, have all experienced an increase in activity levels, as expected.Map 3: Westminster f+b hubs, with Leicester Square, Soho and China Town highlightedAgain, a similar pattern emerges, with Fridays and Saturdays remaining the busiest days across the week, yet Sundays saw a dramatic increase in activity levels. Leicester Square saw a 675% increase on activity levels on Sunday’s compared to lockdown, Soho saw a 267% and China Town a 510%increase.A shoutout must be given to Friday nights in Soho however – with a whopping 850%increase on activity levels compared to lockdown, I think this could be the place to go for a few drinks to celebrate the weekend!RECOVERY IN COMPARISON TO PRE-COVIDThe Borough of Merton caught our eye as it is now experiencing a higher activity level compared to 2019…a round of applause for Merton!Map 4: Merton f+b hubs: Wimbledon Village, Wimbledon Hill Road and The BroadwayOf all three f+b hubs in Merton, Wimbledon Village has recovered the most significantly, with all days bar Monday exceeding 2019 activity levels. Whether this is down to people exploring around their local areas after work and on the weekends, Merton having a high density of residential areas or a new outdoor venue, maybe Merton is the new place to be! We did read that StreetEat pop-up festival launched in Wimbledon Park on May 20th, so we expect to see an even larger increase in activity in Merton over the next five weeks.Graph 6Chris Storey & Kate McGoldrick, Data Scientist and Communications Officer at Geolytix Photo by Zach Rowlandson on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Modelled Traffic Volumes - a new product in our Road & Network data pack",
      "date": "Thu May 27 2021 09:37:50 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/modelled-traffic-volumes-road-network-data-pack/",
      "excerpt": "Our new product in the Road & Network data pack - Modelled Traffic Volumes, answers the question \"how busy is this road?\" ",
      "content": "Being a data scientist at GEOLYTIX means finding new ways to solve client problems and unlock geospatial insights (it's in our values!). Nothing sums this up better for me than the recent journey we've been on to create our new product in the Road & Network data pack - Modelled Traffic Volumes.The product was born out of a client problem, one shared by many retailers and many industries, the seemingly simple question \"how busy is this road?\". In this instance it was to help our modelling work for the clients drive-thru format stores, but it's a challenge covering everything from siting petrol station forecourts, to dark stores and restaurants for the booming delivery market.As with many of our data product innovations, we begin by looking at what we already have. Where better to start solving the problem than settling exactly what 'roads' we should use. The GEOLYTIX Road & Network data pack is a staple product used frequently by clients and in-house alike. Based on OS data including the Meridian 2 product and now the Open Roads, the GEOLYTIX product team have kept these topologically correct street geometries up to date and cleaned with useful attribution and flags for routing software. Perfect.Also as part of the GEOLYTIX Road & Network data pack we consolidate, clean, and maintain the Department for Transport's traffic volume survey data. This comprises almost 30 thousand observation points across the UK. This DfT data is representative and well regarded quality-wise, however it can be challenging to disaggregate it properly down to a road level, and your nearest observation could be unusably far away.We realised this was a perfect opportunity for some innovative 'value-add' by utilising these two open datasets with a bit of GEOLYTIX expertise.Using the connectivity principals of network theory we made a graph model of all non-local roads in the UK to score them on their 'betweenness'. This measure of connectivity is based on shortest paths, with a score indicating the importance of an edge to the total 'interconnectedness' of the entire system. This would be our starting point for disaggregating our real world traffic observations in a smarter way.After a number of attempts, tweaking various road class and type lookups as well as differing drivetime iterations we reached a final output we were happy with. As well as being available as a flat data product for use in models or GIS systems, we've integrated our final Modelled Traffic Volumes in our MAPP instances. With MAPP you can visualise all the roads in the UK, and interrogate individual sections to see our modelled average daily traffic volume to help comparing sites, without leaving your browser.DfT observations (orange circles) demonstrate how the GEOLYTIX Modelled Traffic Volumes disaggregate values further, giving greater guidance for site selection and assessment.On a personal note, this is a piece of work I'm very proud to have contributed to, as I believe it's the epitome of the GEOLYTIX principals: doing expert work with openly available resources to create an enriched product that directly answers a requirement of our clients.Chris Storey, Data Scientist at GeolytixPhoto by Denys Nevozhai on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "What causes the online halo?",
      "date": "Tue May 11 2021 09:06:48 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/what-causes-the-online-halo/",
      "excerpt": "As much as the precise cause of the classic halo is not entirely settled, the online halo is not totally understood by retail planners. Yet their importance when planning and forecasting, means we need to both understand and model them when planning multi-channel networks.",
      "content": "The classic halo, more properly the 22°halo, is an area of darker sky surrounded by a narrow band of brightness. In retail an ‘online halo’ has come to mean a generic increase in online sales coming from areas closer to a store; it should really be called the online glory. The precise cause of the 22° halo is still problematic and not entirely settled. It is certainly something involving ice crystals and refraction. The cause of retail online halos similarly does not have a single simple explanation.Online halos are important when planning fulfilment centres, returns, in-store sales forecasts, and ranging. They display different patterns and arise in multiple ways, for example:\nA typical decay curve with hubs (either stores or dark stores) acting as the halo origin\nAn inverse relationship with sales depressed near stores or restaurants\n\nFor retail planners, whilst we do not have a universal explanation, they are important and need to be modelled as we plan our multi-channel networks.The mechanisms for how such patterns arise are critical to predicting the way they will manifest.Example of an in store decay and online halo“In our explorations of online/offline sales patterns using customer data across hundreds of projects and dozens of sectors there are seven main causal pathways”\nRange familiarity. You know you like Sainsbury’s own brand ketchup or that the Reiss sizing fits you. You know this because you shop there offline, and as people are more likely to shop near where they live the online sales form a halo.\nBillboarding. When you walk past a large dynamic exciting living poster every day (a well-dressed shop) that brand is likely to be top of mind when it comes to purchasing online. Awareness driven halos emerge.\nRetailer Customer Relationships. When a retailer has your details and knows what you like as an offline customer, they are clearly able to talk to you, craft offers and suggest delivery slots you will like. The very presence of a relationship will drive online halo.\nDemographic Brand Fit. Waitrose stores are more likely to be sited in affluent small towns. People who live in affluent small towns like Waitrose so order online from them. Sales are therefore higher closer to Waitrose stores, this is often mistaken for a true online halo.\n‘Delivery’ Cost. With the likes of Deliveroo this is obvious and revealed at order time, for pizza delivery it is manifested in colder less appetising pizza at the end of a long trip. The cost of delivery discourages long trips and so a halo is formed.\nSlot availability. When you shop online, particularly for food, the number and price of delivery slots is tailored to your address. Food delivery companies would prefer to send a van 1 mile rather than 10. The cheap deep availability of slots close to fulfilment centres (often stores) drives uptake and so we see halos.\nWalk-in doughnuts. When a store is a very short walk away the appeal of online delivery can fade. Where collection is a viable option the appeal and promotion of online ordering and walk to collection can be strong (click and collect). An inverse halo within a few minutes walk can often be seen.\n\nWhilst numbers 1 to 3 are what we may describe a ‘true’ online halo, the others are ones that can be mistaken as being.Thinking through this range of causal pathways it is clear there cannot be a simple single formula for what an online halo is. What it is worth, how it should be predicted are all situational and will depend on the brand, the sector, the competition, the retail context, and also individual shop locations and customers preferences. If you would like to discuss how to forecast online halos please do get in touch.Blair Freebairn, Chief Executive at Geolytix Photo by Miha Rekar on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix open Supermarket Retail Points - 20th Edition",
      "date": "Mon May 10 2021 14:13:52 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/open-data-supermarket-retail-points-v20/",
      "excerpt": "The 20th version of Geolytix’s open data set; Retail Points, has now been released.",
      "content": "Amazon opened their first UK Amazon Fresh store in Ealing, London in March 2021. This has been included in our latest version of the open UK Supermarket data set. Iceland also launched their new convenience supermarket store format, Swift, in March which is another new fascia that has been added to our Retail Points data set. In addition to the new store format, Iceland have continued to expand their Food Warehouse stores this quarter, opening a store at Canvey Island Retail Park in April.Lidl managed 20 store openings in February including 4 stores in London (Putney, Tooting, Richmond and Hackbridge). This allowed the retailer to meet their target of opening more than 50 stores within the financial year. February also saw multiple Tesco Express store openings – New Road in Chingford, Albert Embankment in Vauxhall, Lyndhurst High Street and Amersham Road in Hazlemere.Read more about the background of this data set. You can download our latest release of the Retail Points data set here with all of the accompanying documentation. We love hearing about how the data is being used so feel free to tag us on Twitter or LinkedIn. \tRebecca Mellor, Data Analyst Apprentice at Geolytix \tPhoto by K. Mitch Hodge on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Mobility Data: Battle of Birmingham",
      "date": "Fri May 07 2021 08:42:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/mobility-data-battle-of-birmingham/",
      "excerpt": "Birmingham and the Black Country was a highly requested area for us to look at next, and we couldn't resist. This time we've looked at: Aston Villa, Birmingham City, West Brom and Wolves and the results certainly are interesting...",
      "content": "Our much-anticipated second instalment of the Football Maps series has been delayed by needing to do some actual, proper work – but Alessandro and Dan have been burning the midnight oil, so here we go…Having previously looked at London, and which boroughs supporters around the grounds on matchdays come from, we were able to show that Spurs dominate north London.We’ve now replicated this across Birmingham and the Black Country, and looked at which club are most represented in each postal district. We’ve looked at Aston Villa, Birmingham City, West Brom and Wolves (apologies to Walsall fans for not including you – I’m regretting that already).West Midlands teams are in the spotlight this time It’s a really interesting pattern, with swathes of local dominance for each Club. We’ve got no vested interest in this one – fascinated to hear what you think…any surprises?Next up is going to be Manchester – we’ve processed it up and it shows the United west / City east divide – but we’re working on an alternative view that is going to be designed to try and upset both sets of supporters in equal measure. Watch this space…Ben Purple, Director at GeolytixPhoto by Emilio Garcia on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix wins a Queen's Award for Enterprise for International Trade",
      "date": "Wed Apr 28 2021 23:20:12 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/geolytix-wins-second-queens-award/",
      "excerpt": "We are absolutely thrilled to announce that Geolytix has been awarded it's second Queen's Award for Enterprise. This year we are being recognised for our excellence in International Trade.",
      "content": "With the magpies out and singing, we realised that as it goes for our avian friends, so it goes with Queen’s Awards. Geolytix won one Queen’s award for Innovation back in 2016. Now we have Queen’s Award number two. This time for International Trade, and joy obviously. We are an SME multi-national. Geolytix are only thirty-five people strong, but as well as our London HQ we have offices in Tokyo, Shanghai, Melbourne, Warsaw, Cape Town, oh and Leeds, Yorkshire.Geolytix helps global retail and hospitality giants, innovative disruptors, and 3rd sector players decide where to be. How many stores, restaurants, surgeries, banks, bars, fulfilment centres, clubs, and locker boxes, and precisely where to put them. How will the new localism and work patterns change company strategies. How will the interplay of 3rd party delivery, in store pick-up and return, aggregators and in house logistics play out? Is the death of density real? Asking difficult questions is easy, we help global commercial powerhouses answer them. With recent work spanning a grocer in Thailand, a fast food retailer in Mongolia, a toy specialist in India, and a global sports brand in Russia, we are trusted innovators around the globe.Blair Freebairn, Chief Executive at Geolytix "
    },{
      "title": "Working in an International Community",
      "date": "Wed Apr 28 2021 23:19:19 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/working-in-an-international-community/",
      "excerpt": "Virtually working from home has been a change a lot of people have had to get used to in the past year. So imagine how tough it is to tackle that along with multiple time zones... Coco, based in China, discusses the perks (and challenges) of being part of a team spread across the globe ",
      "content": "The fourth year of the journey!I still remember how curious and nervous I was when I first walked into Phoenix Yard, the old office of our headquarters in London. And how excited I was when standing in front of a Map of China drawn 300 years ago in the Royal Geographical Society. These are where my journey with Geolytix starts…Unlike any of my previous jobs, working at Geolytix is completely like working/living in an international community. My colleagues originated from 6 homelands, and we are currently located in 7 countries, although the majority are based in the UK. We “meet” each other daily or weekly online… however, working in a company to help “make better decisions where location matters” means we often travel across countries and regions to meet our international clients and understand the local markets through on-site visits – in combination with the “big data” built by our data scientists. Although sadly this has been put on hold, with on-site becoming virtual. We have such diversified longitudes and latitudes, which keep changing. Time difference can be GOOD and BAD sometimes. I can share a structure of analysis and expected output at the end of my working day, when it is just the morning of our modeler in the UK – then perhaps when I wake up next morning, the results will be shining there in my “basecamp messages” like an golden egg - so cool! However, sometimes if it’s an open-ended question involving brain storming, and I just “throw out” the question and wait for an answer the next day, I might then end up with more questions, assumptions and potential issues.Which means all of us – based on various longitudes and latitudes, may have to compromise more or less, on our normal routine sometimes, to ensure a project goes smoothly.Fortunately, that’s never an issue for us!Luckily I’ve got a group of colleagues full of curiosities just like me. They seem to know more about what’s happening around my world here than myself sometimes – thanks to the active social media. And I could “discover” a “Haidilao Hotpot” going to open in London, or a “Nayiku Tea” to open in Tokyo and send my “Yummy Alert” even earlier than a Facebook/ Twitter push.It’s been a habit for me to say “Morning!” to my UK colleagues in my afternoon here in China. Occasionally the online meetings happen in my evening - so the afternoon in the UK - but “good morning” still slips out of my mouth so naturally; similar time-confusion happens again when I call our colleague in Melbourne.It is nice to have such fun in our daily communication to be honest, and last year we even made a “virtual team run” along the Great Wall in Beijing, followed by “Walking Across America”...I am really looking forward to when we can gather offline somewhere again soon - either back to our usual 'secret' pub around King's Cross, or on a mission of \"city expert\" exploring a new market!Coco Lin, Project Director at Geolytix Photo by Marina Zasorina from Pexels"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix - Going Global",
      "date": "Wed Apr 28 2021 23:18:24 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/geolytix-going-global/",
      "excerpt": "As Geolytix has been recognised with the Queen's Award for Enterprise: International Trade in April 2021, we look at our successes as a small but global company.",
      "content": "In just a few short years Geolytix have grown from a business almost entirely focused on the UK, to one that has successfully delivered projects in over 50 countries, from Australia to Azerbaijan and Mexico to Mongolia, for a number of global clients across a diverse range of retail sectors.As these clients are themselves global organisations it has been critical that we develop the capability to be able to support them in every corner of the planet with data, models and tools that provide a consistent basis for supporting critical investment decisions, even in markets where the data environment might be challenging.So how have we done it?GLOBAL VS. LOCALConsumers everywhere in our increasingly globalised world have the same basic wants and needs and are faced with a growing array of retail options that exist to fulfil them. Despite this every market is uniquely different, but from a network planning perspective we find they tend to be different in consistent and predictable ways. We develop our models to be flexible enough to handle the critical dimensions that we know can differ, including the mix of travel modes, market densities, channel structure and preference (physical vs. digital, but also mall vs. street retail for example).BEING CREATIVE WITH DATAWorking in markets like the UK or Japan where data is abundant, complete, and up to date can spoil us; in many markets around the world data is often none of these things. This doesn’t mean that you can’t build a spatial model or generate a network blueprint (in fact its often these markets where our clients need most help), but it increases the need for creative use of substitutes and proxies for official data, as well as increasing the value of global datasets such as mobility data.An example of a proxy might be using residential property price data to generate a market-wide affluence index in the absence of any other sources of data relating to wealth. It may mean focusing more on the supply-side if we lack detailed intelligence on the demographic structure of an area – what does the density of international schools, spas, high-end car dealerships tell us for example?Mobility data has been a game-changer in this regard. As coverage and penetration improves everywhere mobility data allows patterns of consumer activity to be understood, workplace and tourism hotspots to be identified, and catchments reflecting real-world consumer flows to be defined virtually anywhere in the world. An additional benefit of mobility data is that it is available in near real-time, which can be invaluable when trying to make sense of a world undergoing changes because of the coronavirus pandemic (that may or may not persist long term).OUR TEAMFinally, the Geolytix team, our greatest asset by far. We strive to nurture an international mindset and to operate as a single global business regardless of physical location (this has been a rare positive outcome of the pandemic whereby remote working has put everyone in the same position regardless of where they are).The core of our modelling expertise still sits in the UK, but we have outposts in several other global locations to support clients locally and can also draw on a large network of data partners and contacts, established over many years, to provide additional support as required.Most importantly every time we approach a problem, we must consider how we would migrate our solution into other markets at a subsequent point if required, and what adaptations to data inputs or methodology would be needed to deliver an equally robust result.QUEEN’S AWARD FOR ENTERPRISE: INTERNATIONAL TRADEThe Geolytix team are honoured that our achievement in building a thriving global business has been recognised with the Queen’s Award for Enterprise: International Trade in April 2021. This is one of the most prestigious business awards in the UK celebrating the success of exciting and innovative businesses which are leading the way with pioneering products or services.We extend our thanks to our amazing clients who put their trust in us to support critical investment decisions and strategic planning with data-driven intelligence, and look forward to continuing to help them, and many others, long into the future!Luke Whittam, Business Development Director at GeolytixTitle Photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich from Pexels "
    },{
      "title": "Need a site visit fix?",
      "date": "Thu Apr 22 2021 12:50:31 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/site-visit-sydney-australia/",
      "excerpt": "2020 was a year without travel, and in an industry where site visits are part of the job, we were restricted to site visits from a laptop! As the world is slowly coming out of lockdown, our location planners based in Australia have been lucky enough to go on real site visits again!",
      "content": "Our team got so excited about the first site visit within the team since the lockdowns that we thought our fellow location planners might be yearning for a site visit just as much as we are.Whilst we’re still a way off from our usual ability to roam we thought you might like to share a visit or two by proxy! We’re kicking off with a visit to sunny Sydney with Lizzie.Tune back in late May when George (our resident Melbournian) is going on an INTERNATIONAL HOLIDAY (crazy we know!) across the trans-tasman bubble to her native New Zealand. If you have any locations you’d like her to visit then message us! Local site visit services are also available in Japan and China if you have any other Asia Pac sites under consideration. :)Sydney, AustraliaAs Australia continues its journey to normality out of COVID-19, I visited some of Sydney’s most well-known shopping centres to see first-hand what the retail recovery landscape looks like in 2021. Using Google’s mobility data for April 2020 (when the pandemic was in full swing) and April 2021 (now Australia is on its path to normality), we can start to identify the extent to which shopping behaviours might have changed and what constitutes a more attractive retail environment in a post-Covid world.Although everyday life in Sydney, and Australia more broadly, currently seems to have recovered compared to other city centres around the world, retail activity in Sydney’s CBD continues to lag levels seen pre-Covid as many Australians continue to work from home. As a result, we have seen shopping trips which would have taken place in the city centre, shift to suburban counterparts. Despite this, there are still a number of factors at play which limit the extent to which physical shopping in suburban centres can get back into full swing.Westfield ParramattaMy first stop was Westfield Parramatta, Australia’s largest shopping centre located in the bustling multicultural suburb of Parramatta, commonly referred to as Sydney's 'second CBD'. Synonymous with the large crowds which flocked to the centre in the pre-Christmas build up, the 1.5m sq ft centre has shown the strongest level of retail recovery since the full impact of Covid-lockdown hit Australia a year ago. With several transport links making the centre increasingly accessible, and an ever-growing roster of big-brand anchor tenants, it is unsurprising that the centre is paving its way as the one which has ‘bounced back’ from the pandemic. Whilst there was a unique buzz of eager shoppers, the busy atmosphere arguably came at the cost of fewer people social distancing and a less relaxing experience for the more cautious shopper.Castle TowersNext on the suburban retail tour was Castle Towers Shopping Centre, located in The Hills Shire district. Despite the challenges which came with 2020, Castle Towers delivered two major upgrade projects (an alfresco dining precinct and refreshed design of the centre). These upgrades have evidently allowed Castle Towers to prove itself more resilient than others in its recovery, as retail mobility has almost levelled back out to pre-Covid levels. The updated design, with an abundance of natural light and greenery that softens the urban environment, has created a sense of airy space which is particularly conducive to positive shopping experiences in a post-Covid world. Despite this however, it is worth noting that use of public transport in the area still sits well below pre-Covid levels, suggesting there is still some way to go before the centre benefits from its full potential.L: Westfield Chatswood R: Chatswood ChaseThe final visit was to Westfield Chatswood and Chatswood Chase, located north of Sydney’s CBD. The area has shown the slowest return to normality of the three locations visited and this was felt in both centres, with quieter aisles, higher vacancy rates and fewer crowds. Chatswood Chase in particular is a go-to tourist destination for designer shopping and has therefore felt the added impact of Australia’s international border closures since March last year. Looking at the types of shopping missions taking place, they appeared to be mostly functional, with more shoppers picking up convenience goods from local supermarket formats and fewer shoppers navigating their way through the big-brand comparison goods retailers as part of a shopping ‘day out’.It is evident that landlords, retailers and shoppers will be adjusting to changes long after Covid-19 has been contained. Considering the consumer’s end to end experience of the shopping environment (including transport to and from), and creating environments that shoppers want to spend time in, will be pivotal in driving retail recovery and withstanding the ongoing threat of online.Lizzie Dawson, Associate at Geolytix Mobility Data: Google COVID-19 Community Mobility ReportsTitle Image: Authors Own"
    },{
      "title": "Mobility Data Proves It – North London is Ours",
      "date": "Mon Apr 19 2021 15:48:23 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/mobility-data-proves-north-london-is-hotspurs/",
      "excerpt": "Whilst looking through our Unacast mobile device ping data, we decided to use the data to look at which team had the highest active devices on home matchdays. And the results are in.....",
      "content": "It’s been quite the Monday for Spurs, with the controversial Super League announcement this morning, followed by the news that Jose has been relieved of duties the week before a Wembley Cup Final.Using 30 million pings of mobile device data, it appears North London belongs to the Spurs However, the big announcement has been saved until last – Geolytix have been busy looking at the 30 million pings of Unacast mobile device data we receive daily, and can now prove beyond any doubt that North London belongs to Spurs.We have processed up data for every home fixture of every London Premier League club over 2019 - remember those heady days where we could go and watch matches live?We have then geofenced devices in the stadia, and matched them back to the borough that is the ‘home’ location of the device.We are then able to see, in each borough, which team have the highest volume of active devices on home matchdays.The results are interesting, and show what we all already knew – North London belongs to Spurs, with the highest volume of supporters of any London club in Barnet, Enfield, Haringey, Redbridge and Waltham Forest. Honours are shared with Arsenal in Brent and Hackney. Spurs also dominate Bexley, Southwark and (more surprisingly) Ealing.As long suspected, Arsenal’s roots as a South London club are reflected in the geography of their matchday fanbase. Unsurprisingly given their Woolwich origins, they dominate the borough of Greenwich.West Ham are strongest in 3 boroughs (Barking and Dagenham, Havering and Newham), Crystal Palace take the honours in Bromley, Croydon and Surrey, whilst Chelsea clean up in 8 boroughs, mainly in west / south-west London, but also Camden.Dan and Alessandro have got data pouring out of their ears on this, and there is a very real risk to Geolytix productivity as we pore over it – more to come, and please let us know if you want us to look at YOUR club in the comments. Needless to say, we’re not letting Dennis or Donna, our resident Gooners, anywhere near the data in case they use it to misrepresent things…Ben Purple, Director at Geolytix Title image: Photo by Connor Coyne on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Vaccination journey",
      "date": "Tue Apr 13 2021 15:48:27 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/global-vaccination-app/",
      "excerpt": "With vaccinations now leading the daily news coverage of COVID-19, I decided to focus on some positive data, a better alternative to reading the 'worsening news'. Using the XYZ framework which underpins MAPP, we have built an open app that visualises vaccination rates across the world. ",
      "content": "Back in March 2020, when I stayed home for good, one of my most frequented websites was Coronavirus section of worldometers.info. Not because I liked it. Things as obvious as air were disappearing one by one and I was being transported into a new world with little in sight. Anything could happen from then on and I could merely look for answers in literature. Albert Camus possibly. I would scroll endless pandemic news and check on newly updated figures. News would only be bad or worse and I no longer called it ‘bad news’. It was ‘worsening news’. Back then numbers of new Covid-19 cases would go into hundreds in most affected areas of the globe and it seemed like a lot. I had no idea where we were heading and each glance on fresh stats brought me strange relief.Empty Piccadilly Circus on April 10 2020. Photo by me.For a moment I thought I could track new data just as well as worldometers do. I could make my own charts and tables with my own insights and therefore fool myself that I could take control of the events. Some people and teams did theirs and their projects got world famous. Eventually I forgot about it. I had plenty on my plate and others did it well enough. In the end I didn’t feel like getting involved with data that grim any more than I already was.Start of the year 2021 brought new developments and new threads to follow. Vaccination campaigns kicked off around the world yet initial optimism about vaccines was slowly fading. At least mine was. Complexity involved in the job to have the planet Earth vaccinated only gave me headache. With global trade and travel, no corner of the world is safe unless other corners are safe too. Today I know better that vaccination is just one of the weapons we will be using against the pandemic for quite a while to come.In the meantime I made a vaccination tracker. It is a hopeful tracker which follows the global journey towards liberating 70% of population inoculated. I probably didn’t want to make the earlier one so as to only count illness and death into staggering numbers. It is way healthier to begin with end in mind and look forward to a goal.\n\n\n\nAgata Brok, Developer at Geolytix Title Photo by Hello I'm Nik on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Visualising Sakura (cherry-blossom)",
      "date": "Tue Apr 13 2021 08:59:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/visualising-sakura-cherry-blossom/",
      "excerpt": "With COVID muting hanami (flower-watching), the true meaning of Sakura - people gathering under the cherry blossoms drinking and picnicking - I decided to visualise the seasonal phenomenon (and plan my celebrations for next year). ",
      "content": "In Tokyo, the sakura (cherry-blossoms) have all but gone, the petals turning the surface of the Meguro River near my home a lovely shade of pink and leaving behind the verdant green leaves. But further up the archipelago the 桜前線 or \"Sakura front\" continues its steady march through the cooler latitudes. This progress is widely featured in daily weather reports (you can see our visualisation of the 2021 season below). We learned this year that the full blooming of the flowers in Kyoto took place earlier than at any point since these things started to be recorded, over 1,200 years ago in the year 812; a potentially worrying signal of global warming according to many commentators. Figure 1: visualisation of the 2021 cherry blossom season\nBut to most Japanese, the focus was on what seems to be the true meaning of Sakura - hanami, literally flower-watching, accompanied by drinking and picnicking in the parks and along rivers, or indeed any patch of ground where a cherry tree is to be found. This is a custom that dates back many centuries with festivals apparently taking place since the 3rd Century AD. These historical revellers had to manage without the convenience of having beer and snack supplies replenished via Uber Eats, or the ability to share their experiences on social media - both much more recent innovations. Figure 2: Cherry blossom designs are even hidden inside the shoes\nThis year was a slightly muted affair again, as the authorities sought to limit large gatherings to prevent Coronavirus spread; but the crowds lining the Meguro river seemed undeterred (one of my favourite running routes, I must give it a wide berth for a few weeks, except when I have the willpower to rise early enough to get out at dawn for my own private hanami in relative solitude. Figure 3: The Lego Sakura Tree has been particularly successful - and rather relaxing apparently\nCommercially it's also a big deal. In 2018, Kansai University Professor Emeritus Katsuhiro Miyamoto modelled that the economic effect of cherry blossom viewing in Japan as a whole amounts to 650 billion yen (£4.3 billion) across a two-month period. Many companies release Sakura themed products, ranging from food and beverages to clothing and accessories. Like the sakura themselves, they prominently feature the colour pink, are aesthetically pleasing and are only available for a limited period. Indeed, many of Geolytix's clients get in on the act with special products or special offers related to the season. Figure 4: The F&B industry alters its advertising slightly around Sakura season\nThis economic uplift will have been blunted this year as tourists have not been allowed into the country, but when normality returns it really is a wonderful season to be in Japan. Next year I'm looking forward to the opportunity to welcome friends, family, colleagues and clients to enjoy a beer under the trees while appreciating the ephemeral nature of life! Luke Whittam, Business Development Director at Geolytix Photo by Timothy Eberly on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "The changing retail landscape",
      "date": "Tue Mar 30 2021 10:14:16 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/the-changing-retail-landscape/",
      "excerpt": "With more stores closing than opening in 2020, it is not surprising that UK high streets are left with empty retail units. Instead of leaving the spaces unused, developers are turning to new ways to use the space. ",
      "content": "With the UK being under lockdown or some form of restrictions for a year now, the impact on the retail landscape is becoming apparent. Figures compiled by LDC indicate that as of this month, over 17,500 chain store outlets have disappeared, and on a daily average, 48 restaurants, shops and other leisure/hospitality venues have permanently closed their doors. Even accounting for chain store openings (7,655 across the year), a net closure of 9,877 stores during the pandemic is a third higher than in 2019.Debenhams was one of the largest retailers to close down in 2020Where the nation is spending their money has also altered; the Centre for Economic and Business Research noted that working from home led to a £2.3 billion loss of retail spend in Central London alone – whilst it should be noted that some of this will have been redirected to surrounding suburban high streets, the impact on physical retail is still severe. Topshop, Debenhams, Laura Ashley, Oasis & Warehouse, and Cath Kidston are but a few of the ‘big’ retailers who collapsed in 2020. Thornton’s made the news as the latest household favourite closing their doors for the last time and other retailers such as Paperchase, John Lewis, Zara and Pret A Manger have announced the closing of a number of stores.So what happens to the retail space when the world opens up?Oversized store portfolios have been an issue (of sorts) for years, with the power of brick-and-mortar stores falling short of the ease and accessibility of the online high street. COVID has simply accelerated this changing landscape, particularly felt by businesses in retail-business districts.The Centre for Retail Research (CRR) reported in late 2020 that of 400 property executives, over a third are already changing how retail stores are being used, with a further 57% considering such. CRRs director, Joshua Bamfield stated “there is no alternative to repurposing… as much as 10% of retail floor space might need to be repurposed in the short to medium-term, but it could be much higher in major cities”.However, such change is being viewed beneficially, with many in the retail industry seeing such repurposing as a way to ‘bring department stores back to life’, giving the public both what they want and what they value today.There is a lot of space to work with; Altus Group’s research indicated that as of September 2020 there was almost 1.35 billion sq ft of occupied, vacant and to let retail floor space in the UK.A department store of consumer led-experiences.One interesting alternate use of retail space is for flexible office space. Brandon Stephens, founder of Anthem (a company taking over disused UK department stores and repurposing them into ‘thriving mixed-use spaces’), argues that the retail landscape needs to become a ‘flexible space…[where] people [can] spend all day in one location’. You just need to look at the modern urban office to see the impacts; gone are the days of corporate office spaces with box cubicles and a complete lack of creativity. In comes the thriving office environment that encourages vitality, learning, creativity and well-being. Innocent's London office is 5 floors of fake grass, park benches, picnic tables and buntingWith gyms, spa’s, dry cleaning, food halls and rooftop bars, the modern office space sounds more like a hotel, and yet this rejig works. Stephens articulates that these spaces need to become destinations where people want to go, yet the importance is on flexibility. Working from home has become the new norm, and essentially ‘going into the office’ will be like a day out; plus who doesn’t love the idea of nipping up to the roof terrace for a drink after work?Social Chain's ball pool, floor-to-ceiling windows, ping pong tables (and a space dedicated to the company dog) makes for a creative workspaceBut to name a few, John Lewis has got the greenlight to convert 45% of its flagship Oxford Street store into offices, Publica Properties are looking to convert the 145,000 sq ft Oxford Street House of Frasier department store into offices and M&S plans to expland its Marble Arch flagship store, adding 200,000sq ft of offices into the mix.We are very fortunate to have this little corner of greenery in our London office!Ghost kitchensAlso referred to as 'virtual restaurants' or 'cloud kitchens' (which I think sounds a little friendlier), these \"commercial facilities purpose-built to produce food specifically for delivery\" are booming in popularity, especially since the pandemic shut restaurant doors nearly a year ago. Take Karma Kitchen; founded in 2018 by Gini and Eccie, they now run two commercial kitchens - one in Wood Green and the other in Hackney. The commercial kitchens are fully equipped with everything from kitchen porters and community managers to state of the art equipment. Most importantly, they are co-working spaces; you are able to rent out the kitchen space on a basis suited to you. At Karma Kitchen you have a choice of both kitchen space and when you use it (e.g 24 hours a day or just the 5pm-12pm dinner 'shift')Through their Karma Relief Programme, the Karma Kitchen is actively focusing on revitalising struggling city centre infrastructures. Crucial to communal ghost kitchens success is space, with the warehouses at around 3,000 sq ft each; this allows for a bustling hive of activity from Indian curries to burgers, to pasta dishes and seafood. The UK food delivery industry is also one to watch and so more and more space will be required. In 2019, the industry was valued at over £8bn and the food delivery sector across Europe was already experiencing double digit growth (predicted to exceed £19bn by 2023). However, with the impacts the brick-and-mortar restaurant industry has experienced throughout the pandemic, these figures may be on the conservative side. Ghost Kitchens now being hailed 'virtual food courts' and are equally convenient for those of us working from home, especially those who live in suburban neighbourhoods that previously may not have had a wide array of 'food experiences' at the click of a button. Therefore, the idea of having a ghost kitchen at the heart of the community hub, utilising unused retail space seems to be a rather smart one. HomesI think its safe to say everybody at least once during the pandemic wished they had more living space! I certainly can – a year without a garden has certainly been challenging. Market research by Nationwide throughout 2020 corroborates this; 63% of those surveyed wanted a bigger garden and 43% wanted a bigger home. Retailers, aware of this demand, have for a long time been reviewing their estates to decide which sites can drive further value by incorporating residential homes. John Lewis has created plans for affordable sustainable homes (both social and private) on 20 of its sites across the UK – they’re even considering furnishing the homes with John Lewis products!Property giants, such as Hammerson, are also making the retail-home leap. Hammerson themselves have submitted proposals to convert a former Debenhams store in Leicester into 300 rental flats and resident amenities (including the ever popular rooftop garden). Again, we see the importance of changing retail spaces to where people want to be. Hammerson's managing director Mark Bourgeois stated that although there has been a shift in retail and consumer shopping habits, meaning retail spaces will need to \"adapt their offer and mix of uses\", well-connected city centres will always be where people want to be. Developers in Seattle are converting part of the 41-year-old Alderwood Mall into a 300-unit apartment complex. Commercial tenants will still utilise 90,000 sq ft of space, embracing retail in the area.Converting retail spaces into residential is a strategic move; creating that right balance of homes, workplaces and retail, leisure and services creates the ideal supply and demand for the town centre. The Government are aiding this swift reconversion with changes in legislation, making previously individually use-class (e.g. gyms, shops, offices) lumped into one single-use class, 'Class E'. Alongside this, from August 1st 2021, all Class E buildings can be converted to residential using a brand new set of Permitted Development Rights - once approved, most buildings in a town centre could be repurposed without the need for planning permission. Laboratories The demand for lab space from both new and existing science firms is ever growing, yet the same cannot be said for supply. Vacant retail units however, could be the answer, particularly in providing the extensive floor space and floor-to-ceiling height required for a laboratory. Research conducted by Savills identified around 100 units (1.8 million sq ft) suitable for a lab conversion in London alone; Oxford also proved fruitful in feasible retail space prime for laboratories. Whilst there has been hesitation over suitability of using retail space in this way, the prime location in high footfall areas allows for increased transparency and community engagement with projects. Encouraging quality time. As Ritchie Clapson, the Co-founder of PropertyCEO wrote, \"to recapture the thriving hub of activity, town centres need to become leisure destinations\". Unused retail spaces are now being reformatted into such experiences. For instance, the former Debenhams department store in Exeter is looking to be converted into a boutique cinema - although its yet to be specified which company is interested in this refurbishment. My hometown also has a boutique cinema (The Everyman) and it certainly is an experience. With a bar straight as you enter, plush two seater sofas in the cinema itself and food and drink delivered to you whilst you watch, the town centre location is another bonus, making it accessible to customers who can't always access out of town alternatives.A boutique cinema in a high street location could complement the ideal weekend away; in Horsham's Piries Place complex, you have bars, restaurants and even a hotel, right on the cinemas doorstepCoding, \"literacy of the 21st century\". Creatively saying \"You deserve a parents night out!\", Code Ninjas has tapped into both the parents need for some child-free time (especially after all the home schooling), and the children's love of all things games - they referenced Roblox and Minecraft straight off the bat. Embracing STEM learning in a fun and creative manner, Code Ninjas offer classes for children aged 5-14, developing both coding skills and the love of learning. Their site in Enfield is conveniently next to Poundland and across from several food venues, an opticians and a barbers - ideal for waiting parents!Their selection of site locations certainly peaks interest; by selecting unused retail units for some of their centres, they're bringing learning to the high street, making it visible for both parents and kids (nothing grabs attention like a cool looking ninja), whilst also being easily accessible and surrounded by other amenities. Although they do offer a space for parents to sit and wait whilst their child is in the dojo (learning area), a high street location gives parents the opportunity to do some shopping whilst their children are happily entertained (and learning!). giving parents the opportunity to do some shopping whilst kid freeTheir site in Pinner is again embedded into the high streetWhilst the future of the retail landscape is still unknown, it's evident that there are many options out there to bring life back into retail centres. Opening different services in the form of offices, entertainment venues, ghost kitchens, coding schools and homes, will bring a purpose back to high streets, adding in that sense of community that we've virtually found through lockdown.Kate McGoldrick, Communications Officer at GeolytixPhoto by Ben Garratt on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Census 2021 - A big day for data",
      "date": "Fri Mar 19 2021 09:35:54 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/census-2021-a-big-day-for-data/",
      "excerpt": "With census day soon approaching on Sunday the 21st of March, we thought we'd get Blair's take on this once in a decade event.",
      "content": "To watch the interview please click here. What is the purpose of the census?The purpose wow, so censuses have been around for thousands of years, they are a function of modern society, every industrialized society needs one, they obviously date way back, they exist in the bible - we know that's why Jesus was in Nazareth - and so they are a means of the state enumerating itself, of working out what it is, how many people there are, how much taxes to collect, where to spend money, so every modern society has to have them. We have to know where to spend money, where people are, are we growing, are we shrinking whatever we do so they are a fundamental part of our civil society; everyone has to have censuses.Why is the census important and why should everyone fill it in on Sunday?Yes, so first of all everyone fill it in you definitely have to do it, it's the law, it's not only a civic duty you can go to jail if you don't fill your census form in. So hang on, why is it important? Everything to do with how we allocate resources needs facts. I think in coronavirus [times], you know when people talk about data not dates, that comes back to the fundamental importance of data, of knowing things definitively and that is what the census gives us. So you think as you go about your daily lives - we use public transport, we need to go to hospitals, we use doctor's surgeries, we go to shops, we go to bars - all of these things fundamentally depend on where people are, on where people live, where people work, how they travel and the people who plan these things have to have fundamentally correct data and that is the one thing the census gives us. Everything else - surveys, mobile phone data, whatever - it is not definitive. The only time we get definitive truth is from a census, which is why for anyone in planning, whatever you plan you have to have the census data. Why are you excited about the census 2021?Well, first of all anyone who is interested in data should be excited. If the idea of the census and the new census data coming out doesn't excite you and you're in the data industry, you're probably in the wrong job. It should excite you, it's the once in every 10 years where we actually get this fantastically rich data resource and everything else that we do hangs off it, so there's all sorts of interesting things and every census brings new and interesting things. In 2011, we had an awful lot of new questions on ethnicity and nationality and identity, so that was fascinating to see. And also seeing change. Every census throws up, in stark relief, how our society has evolved. In 2011 we saw a dramatic drop-off in organised religion affiliation. It wasn't really talked about very much, but it was very stark and we saw the growth, in 2011, completely against what people had expected. People had been speculating that there might be a majority non-white British city and they thought Leicester might just about do it, 2011 census comes out and about 15 cities had it; London was a White minority ethnic city. No-one knew that was coming, it was a complete surprise to most researchers, so every census holds a mirror up and we find out new things about ourselves, which is what I'm excited and looking forward to seeing. How does GEOLYTIX use the census?We use the census in many different ways, from the very obvious, so just saying how many people are where is the basis of most of our demand models and then for the demographic characterization although there are many other techniques of trying to say who likes buying what, the census because of its multi-dimensional nature is one of the key building blocks. So one of the things the census does, unlike pretty much any other social research, is we do get these wonderful three, four-way tables so we can say we want to know how many professional, graduates living in rented accommodation, who are not in a relationship, that sort of four dimensions of a variable, you can get at small area in the census from the local characteristic tables. So that is how we characterize what sorts of people are living where and again, unlike some countries, we are also fortunate in that we have tremendous workplace data, so we collect where you work and again in these pandemic times it's going to be fascinating to see that new pattern, so when we try and work out anything to do with demand from the place of work, so coffee shops or Pret A Manger or bars or anything like that, we'll use the census in that and then also there's all sorts of alternative kind of edge-case uses that you will have for the census, so things like identifying second homes that might be a very niche thing but it's very important to a tiny little small use-case and because the census is so rich and provides data at such a small area, we are able to find all these edge use-cases. We also use the census in building some of our own data sets, so because it's open we can then take the census data, manipulate it, turn it into scales, use it to compare country against country, build up consistent data sets that we then use across all of our projects.Will GEOLYTIX be processing up and releasing the 2021 census like the last one?Absolutely. And it will be released as open data as the 2011 one was and we'll also be doing it across multiple countries. But, definitely the UK one we'll process it up, we'll put it into a nice flat pack, as we did in 2011 we'll pick what we think are kind of the top 2-300 variables because there's 30,000 variables that get reported in the census; if anyone wants all 30,000 they can have them, but we will pick the edited highlights and we will be getting that out available for you all to use as soon as we possibly can.Blair Freebairn, CEO at Geolytix Title logo by ONS"
    },{
      "title": "Apprenticeship Reflection",
      "date": "Wed Mar 17 2021 11:25:37 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/rebeccas-apprenticeship-reflection/",
      "excerpt": "After joining the team in August 2019, I have completed my Level 4 Analyst apprenticeship and was awarded a Distinction. I thought it would be time to reflect on my time at Geolytix so far. ",
      "content": "At the start of the month, I completed the Level 4 Data Analyst apprenticeship and was awarded a Distinction. After 18 months of writing up projects, attending training weeks and completing exams, all the hard work paid off and I have received my official certificates. 12 of the 18 months were spent working from home and adapting to the strange circumstances which meant the end of the apprenticeship crept up on me so quickly. Despite the challenges of the past year, having something to focus on helped me a lot and I’m proud to be coming out of it having achieved the highest grade. It feels so surreal to say that I have finished, travelling down to Plymouth back in September 2019 for a work event and meeting the team for the first time feels like yesterday.The first stage of the apprenticeship included attending the training weeks in Manchester, which is where I learnt the content for the exams and skills which I could use in my projects or daily tasks. During the first two training weeks, I met some lovely people that were also doing the course and it was nice to get to know a variety of different people going through the same experience. The final two training weeks were following the national lockdown in March 2020, this meant that we joined an online classroom environment instead and completed the training remotely. Although this meant less interaction within the lessons and with the other students, it worked out really well and I went onto pass both exams over the summer.I then had to complete the written projects which were required to showcase my skills and evidence that I was able to meet all of the competences in the checklist. Completing the projects built on my confidence of using the skills that I’d been learning and strengthened my ability to prioritise tasks, plan how I was going to carry out the projects and explain my decisions clearly. The finalised projects were complimented by an Employer Reference written by my line manager Lou. The reference was more extensive than I anticipated because every competence had to be evidenced and written about. However, I’m very appreciative of the effort Lou put in and it definitely contributed to the final result.The End Point Assessment included an interview, which lasted for 90 minutes and consisted of a mix of questions surrounding my role at Geolytix, my experience of the apprenticeship, the projects that I completed and the BCS Synoptic Project. This part of the apprenticeship allowed the assessor to see how well I met the relevant knowledge, skills and behaviours for the qualifying criteria. The assessor made it feel more of a professional discussion rather than an interview and asked me questions which enabled me to thoroughly reflect on the apprenticeship.To say that I didn’t even know what SQL was before I started, I’ve definitely come a long way and have developed both personally and professionally. Completing the apprenticeship whilst working alongside people that are dedicated to helping you succeed has been a massively rewarding experience. It’s a shame that I couldn’t celebrate properly, but I can’t wait to be reunited with the team when possible!Rebecca Mellor, Data Analyst at Geolytix"
    },{
      "title": "International Women & GEOLYTIX",
      "date": "Mon Mar 08 2021 10:24:57 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/international-women-geolytix/",
      "excerpt": "To celebrate International Women's Day, I thought it would be a brilliant time to celebrate all the fantastic women in the GEOLYTIX team ",
      "content": "So this week we are celebrating International Women's Day. International Women's Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity. Significant activity is witnessed worldwide as groups come together to celebrate women's achievements or rally for women's equality.Marked annually on March 8th, International Women's Day (IWD) is one of the most important days of the year to:\ncelebrate women's achievements\nraise awareness about women's equality\nlobby for accelerated gender parity\nfundraise for female-focused charities\n\nI thought what better opportunity for my next blog than to take the stand and celebrate the women that make Geolytix such an amazing place to work.The Geolytix ladies are a force to be reckoned with. The flexible working attitude at Geolytix means that the superwomen of Geolytix often juggle motherhood alongside their roles at Geolytix as well as being smart, funny, kind, caring & simply amazing. When I joined Geolytix 4 years ago there were 4 other ladies in the team; now there are 14 of us and I am sure we aren't finished on the recruitment of the ladies just yet!!The Geolytix ladies reside all over the world, they include Coco & Lifan in China, Georgina in Australia and the rest of the ladies here in the UK. They can often be found laughing, dancing and on some occasions with a drink in their hands!I thought I would use this blog to introduce myself and the rest of the ladies here at Geolytix.First up we have Sarah. One of the Geolytix originals, Sarah has 2 children and is married to Ben, yet she still makes sure everything and everyone is kept in line (especially the boss!). Sarah implements the processes of Geolytix and is a great support to all the staff at Geolytix. Over the last year Sarah has taken up running and recently completed her first 15k (accidentally she reckons!)Samantha is next up. Originally from Australia she is supermum to 3 children. She is married to James and has recently returned back to the UK after a year in Australia setting up Geolytix Australia. Samantha is Geolytix’s Asia queen and probably works the strangest hours out of all of us here at Geolytix across the different time zones.Then we have Lou. Lou is the data queen of Geolytix, so much so that she is now the Geolytix Product Owner for Data. She literally knows all there is to know about our data products and is always on hand when anyone in the team or our clients have any questions. Lou recently moved into her new house and can often be found walking the hills of Sheffield on her mammoth walks.Jasmin is the Marathon runner of Geolytix - or at least she would have been if Covid hadn’t got in her way. Jasmin is another one of Geolytix’s longest members and has recently taken over as Mapp Product Owner at Geolytix.Agata is next on the list of introductions. Originally from Poland Agata is a developer at Geolytix and she is a fantastic coder. She is busy outside of work learning French and writing her first novel showing she is a woman of many talents.Coco is based in Shanghai and is our project director in Asia. She is a fountain of knowledge of all things Asia and by far one of the nicest people I have ever met. I cannot wait till we meet again.Lifan is also based in Shanghai, although worked in Leeds for a while after she graduated from Leeds University before travelling back to China to work as a location analyst. Lifan recently got married over in China but we hope to see her back in the UK for a visit as soon as possible.Georgina or should I say George, is Geolytix’s resident Kiwi; based in London for a while she then headed to Australia with Samantha to open up Geolytix Australia. George brought with her good humour, the ability to laugh at herself and just bundles of positive energy. The rest of the Geolytix Ladies and I haven't given up hope of a return to the UK just yet. As long as she doesn’t get a dog in Oz we are hopeful!Lisa joined Geolytix in 2018 and was a familiar face to some of the Geolytix staff as she had worked with a few of our ex-Sainsbury's crew. Lisa joined and became director of all things product. She is due to return any minute from her maternity leave and we cannot wait to have her back. Recently she relocated to the midlands with her 2 gorgeous boys and hubby Ben.Wensi is the green fingers of Geolytix. Her daily role at Geolytix as a Data Scientist is a far cry away from the magic she creates in her garden at her home in Leeds - she has even built her own pond. The recent addition to Wensi’s home is Samwise the cheeky Kitten.Alison joined Geolytix back in 2019. Alison is full of knowledge and originally joined Geolytix to help with a project we had out in India. We discovered Alison knows all the good late night drinking spots and has a secret love for 90’s/00’s RnB & hip hop. I can’t wait for more nights out with her that's for sure. Alison is a mum to 2 gorgeous girls and wife to Ryan.The youngest of the Geolytix ladies is Becca. Becca joined Geolytix in 2019 as our apprentice and was thrown into the deep end when she joined us on one of our work events - it was not for the faint hearted but she held her own and has recently completed her apprenticeship with a distinction to become a fully fledged data analyst! We are so proud to have her in the team.Almost at the end of introducing you to the Geolytix Ladies, we have Kate. Kate has joined Geolytix in the middle of Lockdown which means that she has yet to meet any of us in person. Joining as our Communications Officer, Kate is already proving to be a massive asset to Geolytix and despite not meeting anyone is already forming some great relationships - we can’t wait to welcome her properly very soon.And finally there is me, Donna. I am the quiet one of Geolytix….ok so maybe the complete opposite of that! I am a mum of 1 little girl, the moodiest cat in North London and the naughtiest pup. I deal with everything office and finance related at Geolytix. One thing I am grateful for is being with this company where I don’t have to pretend to be someone I’m not. I am fully accepted for who I am (even when I have no filter on the things I say), so for that I am grateful.All the ladies at Geolytix are very different from each other. Different childhoods, living situations and personalities but somehow despite all these differences we gel together, support each other & make some really great memories. I cannot wait to see what the future holds for us all.Donna Kirton, Geolytix "
    },{
      "title": "The Geography of Pokémon GO",
      "date": "Fri Feb 26 2021 09:30:53 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/the-geography-of-pokemon-go/",
      "excerpt": "With the nation locked away, its not surprising we turned to the world of AR and VR. To celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Pokémon, we delve into the phenomenon of Pokémon GO, and the impact on mobility and tourism alongside the growing presence of AR in the retail world. ",
      "content": "When I saw that the 27th February is Pokémon's 25th Anniversary I couldn’t resist the opportunity to discuss just how Pokémon is linked to geography. And it is. It’s location-based gaming at its finest, the first blockbuster success, with more than 550 million installs in the first 80 days; by March 2019, it had been downloaded over 1 billion times.Levi's are getting involved with the 25th AnniversaryWhat is Pokémon GO?Not a big gamer myself, I was still aware of the traction Pokémon GO received when it was first released in 2016.Source: Vox.com‌Players use their mobile device’s locational positioning to locate, capture and then battle virtual Pokémon- appearing on the screen as if in the ‘real’ world with the gamer. Non-gamers may relate to this technology more when used by companies to allow customers to visualise products in their own home.Whilst Pokémon spawn temporarily at random locations (causing much excitement amongst players), there are also “PokéStops”, a fixed location in the physical world, where players can receive benefits such as experience points and potions.The importance of place.“PokéStops” are not randomly selected. Niantic (Pokémon GO’s developer) uses Portal Locations; initially based on historical markers, churches, parks, and monuments, the locations are determined by using community crowdsourcing. First used in its earlier location-based game ‘Ingress’, Niantic allows players to submit Portal Locations through Niantic Wayfarer, enabling an understanding of location relevance to players. With the Pokémon map only showing 3km around the gamers current location, it is important for Niantic to understand just where its players are located and where they will happily travel to.The impact on place in the ‘real’ world.Pokémon GO had enough traction and popularity to impact the world around it. It is typically understood that human mobility is highly predictable, with people generally moving between home, work/school, and a handful of other fixed locations (grocery store, coffee shop, gym etc). Pokémon GO however, has indicated that location-based gaming might incentivise people to deviate from their routine…and at a tremendous scale.A survey conducted on Pokémon GO players spanning five countries found nearly 60% of respondents stated they travelled to new places in search of temporary Pokémon Spawns or \"PokéStops\" they had yet to visit; if tens of millions of people play Pokémon GO worldwide, that is a substantial shifting of mobility habits. Yelp even released a \"PokéStops\" filter , allowing users to actively locate “PokéStops” on the go. Yelp argued this filter brought traction to “PokéStop” areas, boosting surrounding business.I asked my partner, an avid gamer, how often he used to venture to new places specifically for Pokémon Go. He told me he often ventured into London with a group of friends to get specific Pokémon, once cycling round a park for hours to catch 100 Charmander’s to level up. To him, it wasn’t so much about the game, but an activity that him and his friends could do together (the fact it was a game, an evident bonus). The game is still avidly being played today with it even in the news recently, after a man was fined £200 for travelling 14 miles during lockdown to play the game.Change in mobility = change in spending habits.A shift in mobility impacts spending, and a field survey of Pokémon GO players found that 46% of players said they had purchased something at a venue they were near whilst hunting Pokémon- typically food and drink. As Pokémon GO is associated with group activities (not many players said they would hunt for Pokémon by themselves), this shift in movement can have an impressive impact on area spending habits.Are \"PokéStops\" becoming destinations themselves?It seems tourist destinations are now using \"PokéStops\" as an advertisement for the cities themselves. Qantas posted an article on the 'Favourite Pokémon GO city hotspots in Australia' which is incredibly similar to their blog on 'Hottest Australian Destinations to Visit'. Glam Adelaide (a South Australian news page I used to read when I lived there) even posted an article on how you can explore Adelaide through the Pokémon GO virtual world. In Adelaide, its not just the tourists either; locals are loving the ability to tour their city like they never would: visiting places, seeing graffiti artwork (what the city is known for) they had never seen before and joining a community. Adelaide Zoo even released its own Pokémon Zoo map to help users navigate the \"PokéStops\" throughout the park.Adelaide Zoo Pokémon GO MapThis is not an isolated tourist-attraction initiative. There are several blogs outlining the best Pokémon GO locations in London, with The Lonely Planet even advertising organised Pokémon GO tours. Efforts are also on a global scale; Pokemon GO Travel aims to organise global events to the users device. Maybe this is ideal seeing as we can't travel anywhere at the moment!Bridging the gap between online and brick-and-mortar shopping?Whilst we may not be actively out searching for Charizard or Pikachu, AR has still reached the nation in the world of retail. Lego Hidden Side allows users to scan their Lego sets, entering an interactive world on their devices, unleashing an interactive ghost hunting tool. Lego also featured in-store AR experiences, allowing you to meet your favourite Lego character face-to-face, and empty pop-up shops with scannable barcodes to view the products virtually.AR has also taken hold in the fashion and beauty industry; Sephora uses AR to allow you to virtually 'try on' makeup without having to physically use any of the products. Zara's AR experience rids stores of mannequins entirely, instead allowing shoppers to view moving mannequins in the store through their phones, picking what clothes they wanted to see on. DressingRoom by GAP allows shoppers to virtually try outfits on personally designed avatars, enabling shoppers to see how clothes look on different body types and in different sizes. The Oak Mirror by Oak labs removes the shoppers phone entirely; using smart mirrors, shoppers are able to virtually try on the clothes themselves. These are only a handful of examples, merely touching the surface. These AR developments are helping bridge the gap between online and brick-and-mortar shopping, and the try-before-you-buy experience is a welcomed one during the pandemic, quickly becoming an essential technology for retailers. Initially combatting the closure of physical stores, retailers are now embracing AR for the hygiene and safety benefits. Plus, research indicates that interactions with products using AR had a 94% higher conversion rate than for products without.AR has an impressive future ahead - from AR games, like Pokémon GO, changing mobility patterns and boosting tourism, to ever improving AR retail technology bringing the online and bricks-and-mortar worlds together. With the UK soon to come out the other side of lockdown it will be interesting to see how retailers embrace the virtual and whether the digital shopping experience is here to stay. Kate McGoldrick, Communications Officer at Geolytix Photo by David Grandmougin on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Global Retail Places",
      "date": "Thu Feb 25 2021 09:22:05 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/global-retail-places/",
      "excerpt": "Retail Places identify areas where potential customers are attracted to interact with a retail environment. Retail Venues sit within these to specifically define a concentration of retail within a retail place.",
      "content": "Geolytix have 50,000 Retail Places and Venues covering 50 countries across the globe. We continue to add new countries as we help our customers expand internationally.Current coverage of Geolytix Retail Places by country in orangeNew Market EntryOur global cities dataset is often used to perform a high level scan of potential. Joining this dataset with our retail places and demographic data identifies specific centres that provide the highest opportunity for sales.Transit LocationsWe have airport, train stations and motorway service area boundaries. Using these place types alone or paired with passenger numbers, modelled traffic counts or processed mobility data and your store network we can identify the next locations you should target to open.Destination RetailWe can overlay your store network with our retail park, leisure park and shopping centre locations to identify the strongest and 'best-fit' locations for your brand.Convenience SectorUrban centres, village centres and parades all offer lots of convenience location opportunities whether it be for a grocery store, off license, Post Office or pharmacy.Optimising your store networkRetail places have a strength score (a retail sales proxy), size (number of retailers) and type of retail (% splits). These are an invaluable overlay to retailer sales performance when deciding whether to relocate or close stores.These are just a few of many reasons of how Retail Places could benefit your business as an input through network strategy, location planning, omnichannel retailing and spatial modelling. Our global Retail Places offer a consistent approach ideal for international retailers as well as nationally operating and local brands.Examples in Poland, Australia, Japan and South KoreaIf Geolytix data could help answer your business questions please contact us to discuss further.Title Image: Photo by Gregory DALLEAU on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "MAPP Q+A: Location Intelligence for Location Planning",
      "date": "Wed Feb 24 2021 18:01:11 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/location-intelligence-for-location-planning/",
      "excerpt": "Jasmin, our MAPP product manager, answers some of our most common MAPP related questions ",
      "content": "What is MAPP?MAPP is our global online market intelligence and mapping tool which allows anybody to use location data for business decision-making. It is designed in-house specifically for your needs, from the design, to the functionality, to the map style, we create innovative solutions which work for you.What are the main reasons people licence it?We seem to get a new reason every week! \nThere is a lot of interest for last mile delivery use-cases, given the granularity of our data and the ability to instantly see catchments and demographic profiles for any location.\nNot surprisingly many customers use it to understand the overlap between physical and online shopping and how to optimise the two.\nCustomers love the ease of adding in an additional country as they look to expand internationally.\nSome customers have all their regional and store managers using it when out and about and have captured information and photos about their competition.\nWe have reached the point where all of our forecasting models, network plans and scenario running are integrated into MAPP so there is no need for a desktop GIS, which many of our existing customers love as it means they can access it anywhere.\nOur customers can then also integrate MAPP as their store locator or into their BI system which saves money and helps align business systems.\n\nWhy are you different from your competitors?There are many online mapping platforms on the market, and we work with many great partners. Our difference is us - we are a one-stop-shop that understands your requirements and builds what you need - integrating our network planning analytical models, and datasets you wish! This turns MAPP from a simple visualisation tool into a business decision tool. If you want to understand your estate cannibalisation from a new site opening, then we can not only show how your existing customer catchments overlap, but can also integrate a forecasting tool to give you a definitive answer.MAPP can be accessed anywhere, including mobile devicesWhy should I licence it?You can have your own application up and running in 2 weeks. Our developers work hard to ensure it works quickly, we don’t put up with slow loading datasets. We work with you to make sure your application and reports look great.You can then start to build a consistent framework for your business decisions, and bring these decisions to life.You can have access to our demo site today - just email info@geolytix.co.uk.What's the best thing about being MAPPs product owner?Apart from one day never being the same, it's great to see our customers really embrace the world of MAPP. Cook, one of our most recent customers, has a new employee signing up by the hour, across all functions. We have new requests from each of them, each making the application work for them, whether it be online delivery, understanding new store potential or concession locations. MAPP reporting now forms the basis of their board meeting, reports run on the fly, saving them hours. Rosie’s feedback says it all:“Thank you, this has changed our lives” Rosemary Leggett , New Space Manager.Jasmin Fitzpatrick, Product Owner at Geolytix "
    },{
      "title": "Weekly Retail Recovery feeds and activity hotspot maps in MAPP",
      "date": "Wed Feb 24 2021 16:59:23 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/retail-recovery-and-activity-hotspot-mapp/",
      "excerpt": "Mobile ping data is now integrated into MAPP allowing you to use real-life mobile activity data to inform your location decisions. Combining this with our Retail Recovery Index you can track retail recovery trends comparing against both regional and national averages. ",
      "content": "“Can you provide an accurate understanding of people’s movements across towns & cities by time of day and day of the week so I can decide where to open my shop?” is something I’m often asked.Without physically going out to a high street and observing shoppers, it is difficult to gauge what are the ‘busiest’ areas of a town (especially now with restrictions on travel).Cameras counting pedestrians passing provide the best read of footfall for that particular point, but unfortunately these are at a scattering of locations. Manually counting footfall has also given many much-needed insight, but only provides a snapshot of time, and is time-consuming and costly for a large number of locations.When a comprehensive, up-to-date picture of the entire retail landscape is required, additional data needs to be harnessed.For almost two years, GEOLYTIX have been using mobility ping data to understand activity levels across multiple markets across the world. In the UK, we’ve processed over 16 billion pings of high quality, highly granular location data from the last two years to provide us with an understanding of retail activity levels & patterns pre & during the pandemic. Through linking the data to >8,000 of our retail place boundaries, we have primarily been using the data in two ways:\nFor tracking retail recovery rates by retail place since the UK went into lockdown in March 2020\nFor identifying ‘hotspots’ of activity within retail places by time of day, during a ‘normal’ year\n\nWe’ve seen enormous value in this data as not only is it as close to ‘real time’ movement as possible (we receive a weekly updated feed), but it can also be used for micro-analyses of high streets. As an example, some of our clients have been using it to understand when activity levels outside their stores are high enough to warrant re-opening, following the easing of restrictions during the pandemic.It sounds like great data, how can I access it?All of the data has been processed and integrated into our online platform MAPP, giving you the power of real-life mobile activity data at your fingertips.For the UK, we have assigned and calculated a Retail Recovery Index (which compares current activity levels with the same time the year before, taking into account seasonal adjustments) for over 8,000 retail places, which gets updated weekly allowing users to track current recovery trends in relation to both regional and national averages. We can also customise bespoke counts around an estate or any set of locations.Using the 2019 data to represent a ‘normal’ year – equating to over 8.7 billion pings – we’ve also created a mobility activity ‘hotspot’ grid for each of the 8000+ retail places so that users can visualise the varying levels of activity at a small scale within a retail place, by hour. This has been incredibly useful for understanding movements of people throughout the course of the day and has for instance, helped food & beverage operators to identify key lunch and dinner hotspots, consequently informing their locational decisions.We’ve also processed mobility data for a growing number of other countries, including Ireland, Japan, Malaysia, S. Korea and Thailand. The data has been particularly useful in markets where data availability is poorer as it has enabled us to understand shopping behaviour better and consequently build more accurate models.Mobile Ping Data in MalaysiaThrough processing this very large, powerful, timely data and packaging it up in MAPP in an easy-to-use, innovative format, we hope we have made it accessible and we look forward to the growing number of applications it can be used for in location-based decision making. We know we still have a long road to recovery, but we will continue to monitor the latest mobility patterns and will be interested to see how our high streets fare in the ‘new normal’ once we’ve come out of the other side.Jasmin Fitzpatrick, Product Owner at Geolytix Image: Photo by Laurenz Kleinheider on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Playing to win: Board Game Cafés and the Communal Meeting Space",
      "date": "Mon Feb 22 2021 12:06:01 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/board-game-cafes-the-communal-meeting-space/",
      "excerpt": "The UK’s new indoor lifestyle has prompted a boom in the board game industry over the past year, building on past successes. Waiting to eat up this new demand are the country’s surviving board game cafés, provided we haven’t been too scared away from meeting up in person.",
      "content": "The last 12 months have resulted in huge booms in a unique indoor themed subset of the economy. Among bread machines, home gym equipment and crafting supplies you can find an industry which dates back to the dawn of civilisation: board games! From Chess and Go, through family favourites like Monopoly and Scrabble (Geolytix is 19 points, you’re welcome), and now on to more modern and experimental fare, the tabletop scene remains alive and kicking the world over.Though pubs, cafés and community centres in the UK have often held onto a shelf of classics, only recently has a dedicated gaming space appeared in numbers in our cities’ retail areas. In November 2014, Draughts, London’s first board game café, opened its doors. It was predated by others, mostly in smaller university towns, but this seems to have really kicked off the trend. The model is simple: pay a small table charge in order to gain access to the vast quantity of games that line the shelves. Most have acquired food and alcohol licenses in order to better attract customers, and, until this past year, could be found echoing with the highs of victory, the lows of defeat, and the constant enjoyment of a good day out with friends.Locations of board games café locations across the UKIt became apparent after mapping the board games café locations, that this unique industry is more prominent than it seems. Sorry if we've missed your local, there's more appearing all the time! As might be obvious, this new breed of retailer cluster in young, affluent areas (near triple the local share of 20 to 29-year-olds verses the national urban average), on average 5km away from the nearest university campus, and only 2km from the nearest secondary school. Their proprietors (often young professionals themselves) sometimes turn to crowd funding services to secure downpayments in cheap, trendy areas. Their influence continues to expand, as more and more people catch on that they don’t need to fork out a few hundred quid for a decent collection, instead heading down to a local café for a pint and a roll of the dice.While the likes of Germany, France and Canada are closer to being household industry names than the UK, we can still hold our own: Games Workshop is Nottingham’s own tabletop gaming powerhouse, worth more in 2021 than British Gas, or the entire UK fishing industry. Couple this with the re-rise of Dungeons and Dragons, and the British board game world can only get bigger, and the physical locations are ready for when we’re all let back out again.Josh Reynolds, Data Scientist at GeolytixTitle Image: Provided by Tic Tac Tabletop in Tavistock (via https://www.facebook.com/tictactabletop/) "
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix Supermarket Retail Points V19",
      "date": "Thu Feb 18 2021 09:39:31 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/open-data-supermarket-retail-points-v19/",
      "excerpt": "Our comprehensive data set of supermarket and convenience store locations across the UK, Retail Points, has now been updated and released the 19th version.",
      "content": "Despite a difficult year for retail, UK supermarket and convenience stores continued to open which we have captured and included in the latest version of the Retail Points. Aldi and Lidl both continued with their ambitious expansion plans. In December 2020, Aldi had stores in Glasgow and Milton Keynes open, whilst Lidl opened stores in Basingstoke and Mansfield.Tesco opened multiple Express stores in January 2021 including stores in Guildford and Swansea. They also opened their first superstore in six years in Penwortham, Lancashire on 29th January 2021. Morrisons opened a store at Dalton Park, Seaham in November 2020 as well as rolling out more Morrisons Daily locations. While the towns of Clacton-on-sea, Bletchley and Portsmouth all saw closures of their Sainsburys stores last month, Brackley bagged itself the first supermarket opening from Sainsburys in 2020. Midcounties Co-operative Society and The Co-operative Group each opened a healthy contribution of stores to the market.The data set also now includes Planet Organic stores, after the retailer acquired As Nature Intended, a competing organic and natural food retailer, last year. Planet Organic closed three of the As Nature Intended stores (Dulwich, Stratford and Marble Arch) whilst converting four into Planet Organic stores (Chiswick, Ealing, Balham and Spitalfields).You can download our latest release of the Retail Points open data set here along with it’s accompanying documentation. We would love to hear how you are using the data, tag us on Twitter and LinkedIn.Rebecca Mellor, Data Analyst Apprentice at Geolytix"
    },{
      "title": "Australia: WFH to a COVID safe workplace.",
      "date": "Mon Feb 15 2021 09:36:50 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/covid-safe-workplace/",
      "excerpt": "We look at the effect 2020 has played on the workforce and employment patterns around Australia, a country on its journey out of lockdown.",
      "content": "The effects of COVID over the last year have been severe, with unemployment and mental health being two of the major side effects. Although the battle to contain the spread is still front of mind in most countries, many places are starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Australia has gone from a daily peak of 700 new cases in August 2020 to an average of 6 cases after 5 months. Although each State in Australia has had differing intensities of cases and lockdown, the country overall has managed to combat peaks and transition into a COVID normal way of life. Through this transition we can see the changes that have already occurred and start to examine how the future of cities may look. Focusing on workers we can analyse how COVID has affected office and hospitality locations, migration out of cities and tourism’s effect on employment rates and locations. The view from our old WeWork Office in Melbourne, December 2019Every December we perform an update on our Australian worker location dataset. This geodata provides a count of workers at multiple geographic boundaries (ABS). The count was calculated using three separate sets of data with weighted percentages depending on correlation strength:\nLand Use\nCommercial Real Estate\nPoints of Interest (POI)\n\nAnalysing this data at a higher scale and against past updates we can see the shift to working from home (WFH) and determine areas worst affected by COVID.COVID has had a significant impact on unemployment in Australia. In January 2020, before the pandemic, the unemployment rate was 5.2%. Having reached a peak of 7.5% in August 2020 (during the height of the pandemic in Australia), it is now at 6.6%.Using our workers data, we can explore the areas that have been affected by unemployment the most and compare across states.Job losses across states:New South Wales (NSW), Victoria (VIC) and Queensland (QLD) have always had the largest worker populations, with most of the country’s population and metropolitan cities within these areas. Although these states still have the largest overall worker populations in 2021, when comparing the changes over the last few years and the effect of COVID it is evident these states were the hardest hit.Using Geolytix Worker Data (updated in December 2020), we can see that NSW had an increase of 144,000 workers in 2019; when COVID hit, this decreased by 20,000. Other states were impacted heavily too; VIC lost 15,000 workers and QLD lost 16,000.Melbourne (VIC) and Sydney (NSW) are the largest cities in Australia with many workers - especially in corporate jobs - so a large decrease through COVID was to be expected. What is interesting however, is the impact on QLD. Whilst having a much smaller population than NSW, at 3,000,000 less, the state lost only 4,000 fewer workers than NSW. This highlights how different industries have been affected by COVID; QLD has a huge dependency on tourism, with many of the jobs in the area linked to this industry, and we know that the tourism industry has taken a huge hit from lockdowns, border closures and government restrictions.Thematic Map of QLD coast- showing changes in worker counts 2019-2020 by LGAAustralia has had a large decrease in worker counts overall, with each state having different industries and areas affected by COVID. However, we can see the significant effect on tourism, with many of these jobs lost from both local and international border closures. It will be interesting to see the effect on employment when state borders are open and then again when international flights resume, especially in QLD.Local Government Areas (LGA):Worker counts are provided at mesh block and SA1 level, but when you aggregate these counts to larger council areas you can see the patterns of mobility on workers in 2021.LGA locations that had the largest growth in 2019-2020 were Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast, Parramatta, Hume and Adelaide. The growth ranged from 20,000- 35,000 workers and all areas were classified as ‘city’ types (according to ABS). In 2020-2021 however, the largest growth was seen in Willoughby, Mount Magnet, Vincent, Moorabool, Carrathool, Mosman Park and Kent. The growth ranged from 3,000-8,000 workers and classifications ranged from Area, Shire, City and Town. This analysis alone shows the movement of people and workers to more rural/residential areas and a shift away from large cities. Working from home was the new normal in 2020, with offices, public transport and cities being hotspots for COVID Transmission. These factors along with people shifting from roles in city centre cafes and tourism jobs to neighbourhood supermarkets, online companies and industrial jobs (e.g. postal processing, agriculture), where working is prominently done at home or in outer suburbs, shows the dramatic change in workplace locations and new localisation patterns.Example of Geolytix Worker Dataset (SA1 level), showing 2021 counts in Melbourne.The future of workers in Australia is optimistic, employment numbers are on the rise, some states have opened their borders and case numbers are the lowest they have been since before the pandemic began in 2020. It will be very interesting to compare the worker counts and patterns we are seeing now to 2022, especially with the next Australian Census due to be performed in August 2021. There are however still many factors that could change the course of Australia over the coming months, with an example of Victoria having one new community transition on the 3rdof February, delaying the shift to 75% office capacity. Will the case fluctuations and forever changing rules prevent many central office locations from recovering, along with the many small businesses that rely on their trade? Or will business move to the suburbs? We are likely to see an increase in retailers and cafes in the suburban locations that are already indicating worker growth; these patterns in Australia are likely to portray spatial changes for cities all over the globe.Georgina Aucutt, Data Scientist at Geolytix Photo by Nick Jones on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Will the most walked path be the online high-street in 2021?",
      "date": "Mon Feb 08 2021 11:17:26 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/online-shopping-after-lockdown/",
      "excerpt": "Covid-19 and lockdowns in particular have affected how the UK is shopping, predominately a surge in online shopping. Once lockdown is lifted, will we be itching to get back to the high-street or will online shopping continue to rise in popularity? ",
      "content": "Like most people, I am still gripped by COVID-19; physically, I am working from home, seeing the same four walls every day and in total probably walking about 9,500 steps less than I normally would. But mentally, it is a different story; apart from the mental toll isolation takes, I find myself preparing myself before I read the news each morning. What could possibly happen next? I often think back to January 2020 when Australia was tackling catastrophic bushfires, thinking this was the worst start to a year (‘how can it get worse?’) …they do say hindsight is 20 20. The impact on the retail industry has interested me in particular; going from my lunchtime browse in H&M and Costa, to a lunchtime of reading a book at home and drinking home-brewed tea, at first my spending reduced significantly. It was almost as if I had forgotten about online shopping, although I hadn’t really partaken in that much as being home for delivery was always an issue. Locked down and with nothing better to do, out came the laptop and my credit card. I bought an embroidery kit, a paint-by-numbers and then realising I have a limited creative attention span, I invested in a Nintendo Switch. Yes, I of course relived my childhood and played Animal Crossing!When the first lockdown was lifted however, whilst my friends were enjoying a visit into town, I didn’t really return to the shops - apart for my eagerly anticipated takeaway coffee! I’m not sure if it's due to not wanting to be in large crowds or because I realised how easy and stress-free online shopping was. Regardless, my online shopping continued. Much to my partners dismay, I would buy things literally at the click of the button, and our recycling bin was getting very full very quickly (the topic of an unnecessary amount of Amazon packaging is for another story!).The reason I write this, is because the return of the high-street is a much discussed topic. Throughout the first lockdown, it seemed the nation was ready to shop again, with Primark being top discussion - not having an online presence affected both the store and its customers; headlines were likening it to torture!When June came, footfall trends were not as expected, with the British Retail Consortium and Shoppertrak indicating that footfall was down 63% on last year, and only 19% above May 2020. However, the Geolytix Retail Recovery Index (RRI) on analysing a geographic trend, found that some places such as Swanage, Ross on Wye and Boroughbridge have bounced back to 70%+ levels of activity. Photo by Burst from PexelsAccording to Helen Dickinson OBE, Chief Executive, British Retail Consortium, we didn’t have anything to worry about; “with lockdown measures easing, consumers are slowly re-emerging onto their high streets, shopping centres and retail parks”.But, the second lockdown came and then the third, and it seemed the British publics’ attempt to return to the high-street was stopped in its tracks. In June funnily enough, we wrote a blog on the rise of click-and-collect (C+C); rising in popularity through necessity (grocery shopping is something we can’t avoid, but we can avoid the store crowds and patiently wait in the carpark for our pre-bought shopping), more and more stores began to offer direct C+C. During the second lockdown, I was surprised by how busy my local shopping centre was, with people queuing for their C+C at Dunelm, Pandora and Bodyshop. This certainly surprised me as C+C was hailed the answer to delivery woes as you don’t need to wait in for your parcel; in a lockdown, we’re all at home!With the turn of the new year, it seemed online had won. After Arcadia went into administration in November, by January 2021 Topshops’ flagship Oxford Street store was put up for sale. Soon after, Debenhams followed suit, also shutting its flagship Oxford Street store.While High-street presence took a back step, online sales sky-rocketed; in June DPD announced they were creating 6,000 new jobs to keep up with online demand. Seasalt reported a 17% increase in sales year-on-year after online sales in 2020 increased by 95%. Burberry have announced that whilst their in-store sales suffered, their online sales rose in the golden quarter, driven by a younger client base. And Hotel Chocolat, who previously featured in our blog for having a “sure but steady international expansion”, hasn’t slowed down, reporting a 19% increase in total group revenue claiming their “strong online growth more than compensated” for store closures in lockdown.Value in online retail sales in the UK from 2012-2020 It could very easily be that for some businesses, their time to close has come and the Covid-19 pandemic resulting in national lockdowns has merely accelerated this unfortunate inevitability. However, many businesses are reporting that online sales have soared, keeping them afloat when their physical stores were forced to shut. Is this the end of the high-street?Well, I don't think so. Now in the third lockdown, whilst I enjoy the ease of browsing on my laptop and ordering to my door, I miss shopping. I miss making an afternoon of it, browsing the stores, trying clothes on, smelling candles before I commit, and browsing shelf upon shelf of books. I miss the social aspect, meeting up with friends or my mum and shopping together, grabbing a bite to eat along the way. Karen Sheppard, Managing Director of People First Mobility agrees that online shopping doesn't provide the interaction and the experience we so crave. I believe 2020 was the year we 'walked' the online high-street from the safety and comfort of our homes, leaving the physical high-street boarded up. But come 2021 and the easing of restrictions, back to the high-street we go. Kate McGoldrick, Communications Officer at Geolytix Image: Photo by cottonbro from Pexels"
    },{
      "title": "How to reinvent retail spaces for a more sustainable future?",
      "date": "Mon Feb 01 2021 12:57:52 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/reinventing-retail-spaces-sustainable-future/",
      "excerpt": "The pandemic has accelerated the so-called Retail Armageddon and we are facing a dramatic oversupply of retail space in the UK. The repurposing of vacant or declining department stores, shopping centres and high streets will require creativity and imagination, but it will also require data.",
      "content": "The use of spatial data in retail decision making has traditionally been quite narrowly focussed, and largely about forecasting revenue for key tenants. But now, as many ailing retail spaces need reinventing as more mixed-use, locally-relevant and sustainable places, the data we use to support these plans need to become more multidimensional and inclusive too. The resulting insights can help urban planners better understand what a community needs, and can support.Photo by Mark Dalton from PexelsThere’s no shortage of ideas around how excess space might be used differently. The former Debenhams store in Leicester could become apartments and a co-working space, whilst the one in Wandsworth will be an indoor Go Karting Track & Amusement Centre. The Cantium Retail Park on Old Kent Road will be redeveloped as a new mixed use ‘town centre’, intensifying the shops into a high-street format alongside new residential and office buildings. A recent proposal was to turn Shopping City in Runcorn into an IT and farming complex, although it looks like a more modest scheme, including a new health centre and community garden will get the go ahead. The Future High Street Fund has just received an extra £830m funding boost to support a whole variety of transformation projects across the country. At the most radical end of the spectrum, obsolete retail places are being turned into wonderful community spaces. There are plans afoot to convert the Nottingham Broadmarsh Centre site into a green urban wildlife haven, and the Castlegate Centre in Stockton on Tees will become a riverside park. We also love this example of Tainan Spring in Taiwan where the underground car park of a former shopping mall has been turned into an urban park and paddling ‘lagoon’.Tainan Springs, Image: architizer.comThe old revenue-maximising, single-use formula - squeeze in as much leasable area as possible and land some big fish anchor tenants to drive footfall - has long been broken. The more subtle art of Placemaking, and the virtuous circle of benefits it triggers, is increasingly in demand. It means nurturing the things that make a place unique and interesting. It means having a mix of activities that keeps people in the area. It requires more collaboration with the local community, and paying more attention to heritage, arts and culture. Independent retailers also have a massive role to play, whether with permanent stores, pop ups or market stalls. We’ve all been shopping more locally since the pandemic started, and the majority of us intend to continue to do so.Photo by Javier Martinez on UnsplashBut what then is the optimal allocation of space? How much retail square footage can viably be sustained in each individual place, and across the town or region as a whole, as future shopping trends play out? Would a farmers market, or street food hall, succeed in this location? What else could help make this a more attractive destination? Those making the plans require not only a strong vision, but also a detailed understanding of the needs (and talents) of the local area and of the economic realities facing potential occupiers of the space. At GEOLYTIX we have been building datasets and models that replicate real world retail supply and demand dynamics for years. We forecast revenue at store and centre level, and our tools allow our clients to explore and test different scenarios. This might include predicting the transfer of trade resulting from closures or downsizes across a network, or it could be calculating uplifts in demand resulting from new residential or worker populations. We identify which places will continue to be viable for certain retail, leisure or service offers, and which will not, based on the underlying key drivers of success (who lives in the catchment, how far will they travel) and not just recent trends in performance. In short, we can help planners answer some of the ‘what if’ questions that these complex repurposing schemes pose. And as the factors that affect the level of footfall in a place become more nuanced and complex, so do the data that we deploy. We can compare and rank shopper towns or retail places, and provide tools to quickly identify those that are most analogous to a study site (as we recently did for Historic England’s High Street Heritage Action Zones). We’ve been tracking retail recovery rates across the country using Mobility data, working with Local Councils to help them understand which high streets have been most affected by the pandemic. We’ve worked with the Co-op to assess the wellbeing of communities across multiple dimensions like health, employment and transport provision, and with Fields in Trust to rate access to green space. And MAPP, our in house mapping and location intelligence tool, is an easy way to pull diverse data sets together to support better (and quicker) decision making.We all want vibrant and interesting communal spaces to spend time in, as well as buy stuff in. We’re hungry for experience, uniqueness and more ethical options. Planning the next generation of retail, or formerly-retail, places will not be easy. Data will help.Alison Moriarty, Associate at Geolytix Photo by Author"
    },{
      "title": "MAPP shortlisted for best Business Intelligence & Analytics Solution at the Cloud Awards 2020",
      "date": "Wed Jan 27 2021 13:49:55 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/mapp-shortlisted-cloud-awards-2020/",
      "excerpt": "GEOLYTIX MAPP has been shortlisted for the Clouds Award 2020. Having grown considerably in the last 5 years, our bespoke predictive location intelligence and mapping tool is now used by many major retailers, leisure and F&B operators globally. We're eagerly anticipating the announcement next month",
      "content": "GEOLYTIX are thrilled to announce that MAPP has been shortlisted at the Cloud Awards for the ‘Best Business Intelligence & Analytics Solution’. Our predictive location intelligence and mapping tool has grown considerably over the last five years and we are delighted to have received this recognition. Our clients tell us that MAPP’s ease-of-use, speed, flexibility and the quickness in which we are able to turnaround a bespoke solution to fulfil their needs are key factors in its success. It is now an integral tool to many major retailers, leisure & F&B operators across the globe and has meant they are now able to make crucial business decisions much more easily, wherever they may be.We are up against some big names, including Qlik, in this highly competitive category so will be keeping our fingers crossed for the announcement expected early next month.GEOLYTIX locales and Retail Point in MAPPWhat is MAPP and how do I get a free trial?MAPP is our online market intelligence and mapping tool which allows anybody to use location insights for business decision-making. It is designed in-house specifically for your needs, from the design, to the functionality, to the map style, we create innovative solutions which work for you. Click here for more information.To request a free trial, please contact info@geolytix.co.uk todayJasmin Fitzpatrick, Product Owner at Geolytix Image: Authors Own"
    },{
      "title": "Groundhog Day",
      "date": "Wed Jan 27 2021 12:04:18 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/retail-recovery-lockdown-2021-01/",
      "excerpt": "2021 and the UK woke up in another lockdown. We're interested to see how the retail industry is handling a second lockdown; our data already indicates some similarities with last lockdown. Will a preparedness for lockdown have any impact this time round?",
      "content": "The start to 2021 has felt horribly familiar, with Lockdown 2 bringing all of the challenges of Lockdown 1, but with less banana bread. The Geolytix Retail Recovery Index shows levels of activity across the 5,500+ Retail Places we measure dropping back to 27% of pre-Covid levels – very similar to Lockdown 1. The last 4 weeks have been very static, again replicating the pattern we saw last year. Parades and Village Centres have been much more resilient, with activity levels averaging around 50%; City Centres remain decimated – London West End sat at 4% last week. So far, so similar.But this time we have got a pretty good sense of what recovery might look like, with the obvious hope that the vaccination programme accelerates the return to normality versus last year and, most importantly, avoids a relapse. A slow and steady recovery once lockdown eases beckons – but retailers are at least better prepared from the experience of last year. The consistent stories of higher conversion rates from footfall, and higher average transaction sizes, will hopefully hold true again this year, and provide a brighter outlook for those who have been able to weather the storm.A whole host of questions then beckon. Which customer changes will persist, and which will revert? Which businesses have changed forever as a result of the challenges forced on them, or innovations created by them, by circumstances in 2020? How on earth do you treat what has happened in 2020 in modelling forward plans? More of this from Alison in her upcoming blog.It feels like the next few months will mean the new year still feels a lot like the old year, but we take hope from Groundhog Day. The curse was eventually broken.UK Average Weekly Retail RecoveryBen Purple, Director at Geolytix Photo by Gary Butterfield on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "A 4-Month journey with Tesla: a change made on fuelling up",
      "date": "Mon Jan 25 2021 09:37:51 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/a-4-month-journey-with-tesla/",
      "excerpt": "Tesla reached record sales last year, narrowly missing its half a million target. And with Tesla's entry-level Model 3 sedans now being manufactured at the Shanghai Gigafactory, Tesla is staying on top of the Chinese electric-car sales leader board. ",
      "content": "I have been thinking of writing this blog for a while but having recently become an owner of a Tesla and experienced first-hand the transformation from a gas station user, to a fan of supercharge stations, I think I am now qualified to share my thoughts. No doubt, the best way to fuel an E-Vehicle is to charge it like charging a cell phone; every night when you arrive back home, just plug it in. But this requires home-charging equipment, which is unfortunately a bit tricky for me (due to a lack of access to electricity power and car park condition). However, after some extensive research I came across Tesla Supercharge Stations, considered the \"world's fastest charging network\". The 30-minute charging session provided at these Supercharge Stations can almost solve my lack of charging facilities at home. Thus, in late July 2020, my journey of “no need to make my way to gas station anymore” started. After several weeks of considering and comparing, I purchased a Tesla Model 3 E-vehicle; my first car. Tesla Supercharge stations are designed especially for Tesla vehicles, providing high voltage and electricity when charging, enabling vehicles to get enough power in a relatively short time (compared to normal charging speeds). Although this process still takes a bit longer than fuelling up by gas, it can also be a perfect time period for drivers to take a short break, have a cup of coffee or even finish grocery shopping.Image: Authors OwnThanks to my experience of being a network planner at Geolytix, I took a close look on Tesla Supercharge station locations in the city I live, Shanghai:Data from: Tesla.cn and Geolytix Retail VenueFrom the Supercharge station distribution we can see 4 location types are mainly covered: Mall, Office, Hotel and Other. In Shanghai, more than 65% of the Supercharge stations are located at malls, and nearly 20% are in the car park of office buildings or industrial campus. In fact, Tesla recently launched the world's largest Supercharging Station in Jing’an International Center (Shanghai), a 72-stall covered facility. In a city with a fast paced lifestyle like Shanghai, I would say cars fuelling up and daily routine activities happening at the same time can be a smart strategy; no need to plan an extra trip to refill your vehicle!Besides, all the “Mall type” Supercharge Stations are located in Geolytix Retail Venues. Referring to the Geolytix Retail Place, we can also see to what extent Tesla Supercharge has covered the city’s trade zones. I believe in the near future, with more and more consumers tending to choose the eco-friendly lifestyle, E-Vehicle charging stations will play an important role when we evaluate the facility and attractiveness of a mall, especially in the heart of the big, crowded cities.Data from: Tesla.cn and Geolytix Retail Venue and PlaceGenerally, with my curiosity still existing after 4 months, I still feel this transformation of routine a great experience. Although it is not as quick as gas refill, to take a short break and let the cup of tea or coffee fuel you up while the vehicle is fuelling up, I would say it’s not a bad idea!Thanks for reading!Lifan Zhang, Location Analyst at Geolytix Image: Authors Own"
    },{
      "title": "A bit more help than just the Milkman",
      "date": "Mon Jan 18 2021 09:18:08 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/a-bit-more-help/",
      "excerpt": "2020 was a year we will never forget and it changed the way we socially interacted as a nation. The food industry was significantly impacted, which opened doors for an old British favourite...the milkman. ",
      "content": "2020 has certainly turned the world on its head, and with most of us in Lockdown we have taken to trying new things; baking banana bread, creating TIK TOKs and dying our hair. However, whilst there have been new crazes every week, old ways of living have been creeping back in. We’re spending more time with our families (albeit over zoom), hosting quiz nights or family Olympics. We’re taking our eyes from the screen and to the book, reading more or learning new skills. We’re also stuck indoors…out comes the milkman!This year, convenience has taken over; with households isolating, stores running low, and shoppers not wanting to venture far from home, it is unsurprising that online food deliveries have increased. According to Kantar, online shopping now equates to 11.5% of all grocery sales. In other words, almost one in five British households are opting for groceries delivered to the door (up 1.6 million on last year). And who saw the biggest increase in sales? Independent stores, where sales were up 63.1% by May. Incredibly, their market share reached 2.5% (the highest since 2009).Image from thegrocer.co.uk The nation is changing the way it shops and this is partly influenced by social media. ‘Support Small Businesses’ or ‘Shop Local’ are two phrases that have been floating around the social media hemisphere throughout lockdown, prompted by nearly 700,000 redundancies and plentiful time on our hands. Between July and September nearly 95,000 new businesses were created in the UK (according to Companies House Data), many of these small-scale, from the home. I know this all too well, having invested in a Cricut machine myself, and beginning to sell my crafts to friends and family. This resurgence has changed how the British Public shop; according to YouGov, 63% of people are making a direct effort to buy local products, and its helped by the trusty corner shop failing to run out of toilet rolls!We’ve touched on new trends and businesses, however us Brits love tradition, and tradition is making a comeback. What better way to shop local, whilst avoiding leaving your home than the new and improved milkman? The milkman has been around for decades, dropping milk at your doorstep in elegant (and environmentally friendly) glass bottles. Back in the 1980s, 94% of milk was put into glass bottles, and the nation would ‘leave out their empties’ to be collected and reused. Some say this was the first understanding of recycling! However, in 2012 only 4% of milk was stored this way; plastic containers are cheaper to make and transport, and thus convenience and cost had won. Back to 2020; with the desire for convenience, supporting local business and being environmentally friendly, it’s a no brainer that the milkman is gaining popularity! Companies such as Milk and More, and The Modern Milkman, have pushed this old-aged tradition back into the limelight. Milk and More have the philosophy of encouraging people to eat well and live sustainably, and they do so by using smaller suppliers. It even says on their website: “Deeply rooted as a British Icon, we strive to continue both the milkman legacy and its expansion”. It’s not just milk these days either; Milk and More offer everything from dairy and bakery to compost, washing up liquid and reusable cups, all delivered on electric milk floats (an even bigger boost for the environment!).Photo by Suzy Hazelwood from PexelsPopping in my postcode, I’m informed my local milkman is Brian, and this personal touch brings back that sense of community the milkman supported- historically, the milkman would deliver the milk and be invited in for a cup of tea! This sense of community in a world where we even have to socially distance from our parents, is incredibly important. Whether lockdown has people reminiscing of the ‘good old days’ or the hipster generation now acknowledges the environmental benefits, the milkman is coming back. They have modernised, reborn into a world that is not like we have known before. Offering local goods, that are packaged and delivered in an environmentally friendly way, and by a smiling milkman, it’s a welcome positive in the midst of a pandemic. I believe it will be a welcome positive that will withstand the test of time; as a nation, our outlook has changed through Lockdown- from wearing masks and socially distancing to shopping locally. Hopefully this ‘old trend’ is one to stay.Kate McGoldrick, Communications Officer at Geolytix Image: Photo by Gustavo Fring from Pexels "
    },{
      "title": "Happy New Year",
      "date": "Wed Jan 13 2021 09:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/happy-new-year-2021/",
      "excerpt": "2020 was tough for all, but we hope 2021 offers some brighter news.",
      "content": "I think we can now say there is a new meaning to \"surviving the first work week of the year\" after the 2020 we had. Close to mastering wfh, we all miss the office environment (although not the commute so much). We've tackled a global pandemic, home-schooling and ever-growing supermarket queues.Geolytix has already had an exciting start to the year by welcoming Kate to the team. Kate will be joining us in the role of Communication Officer which will partly involve managing our blog and social media to keep you all updated with everything Data & MAPP as well as launching our monthly newsletter.We are incredibly excited to dive into the new year to see what this wild and wacky world has in store this time round. We will continue to bring innovative ideas to our clients to help their businesses optimise their store and online networks through Location Planning, Network Strategy, New Store Forecasting, Estate Optimisation using GeoData and MAPP.Title Image: Photo by Moritz Knöringer on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Life After Lockdown",
      "date": "Wed Dec 09 2020 18:55:56 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/life-after-lockdown/",
      "excerpt": "Anecdotally, town and city centres have been busy since England Lockdown 2 ended last Wednesday. We’ve been busy processing up mobility data from Saturday to see what it tells us about the 18,000 Retail Places we monitor.",
      "content": "This is all based on week-on-week movements – so comparing activity levels to the previous Saturday. Here we go; firstly by Region:\n\nLondon bounceback is by far the strongest in % terms – albeit coming off the lowest base. London West End numbers were up by more than 250% against the previous Saturday – but again, bear in mind this is off a base recovery hovering around 5% of pre-Covid levels\n\n\nNorthern Ireland, Scotland and Wales are obviously on a different phasing, which is (reassuringly!) reflected in the numbers.\n\n\nThere appears to be a correlation between the regions that have returned from Lockdown - into Tier 3 restrictions, versus those in Tier 2 – although the differences in week-on-week change are perhaps not as pronounced as we might have expected.\n\n\nThe City Centres in England with the lowest week-on-week movements were all in Tier 3 regions; Coventry, Bristol, Middlesborough, Bradford, Leeds, Manchester and Newcastle – but even these saw week-on-week increases ranging from 50% to 75%.\n\n\nOn the flip side, places like Chester, Bath, and Liverpool – Tier 2 City Centres but in close proximity to Tier 3 regions, saw the biggest increases, all up >150% week on week.\n\n\nAnd then by Retail Place type:\n\nUnsurprisingly, the Retail Places that were entirely closed down by the Lockdown saw the biggest week-on-week jump – Outlet Centres and Shopping Centres.\n\n\nBeyond this, there was a clear trend back towards the bigger Retail Places – City Centres activity levels increasing at a much higher % rate than Town Centres.\n\n\nThe full weeks numbers will give us a more complete picture next week; watch this space.But if there are any specific Village Centres, Town Centres, City Centres, Parades, Retail Parks or Shopping Centres you’re interested in, contact us through email, LinkedIn or Twitter with the names, and we’ll send you the detail on them.UK by tiers as of 10th December 2020Ben Purple, Director at GEOLYTIXImage: Photo by Finn Hackshaw on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Did Somebody Say…It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas…",
      "date": "Fri Dec 04 2020 11:20:22 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/did-somebody-say/",
      "excerpt": "Wednesday marked the end of England’s four-week Lockdown II. Many retailers will now be looking to salvage what they can following a tumultuous year. The run-up to Christmas is always a condensed & critical period but in 2020 this is exacerbated. So, what can we expect during these next three weeks?",
      "content": "\n\nFig 1: Table showing the weekly Retail Recovery Index across the UK.\n\nOne thing is for certain, it’s not going to be easy. The list of challenges is much longer this year, many of which will be felt most by those working in store. Keeping customers & colleagues safe, capacity limits, long queues, extended opening hours, heavy discounting, uncertain futures and perhaps the biggest unknown (apart from the weather), forecasting how many customers will turn up. Here at Geolytix we have been reviewing the ebb and flow of government restrictions to understand how they have affected visits to our retail centres. We do this using our recently upgraded Retail Recovery Index which combines Geolytix Retail Places with mobility data from Unacast.One key benefit of mobility data is being able to monitor the spatial and temporal dimensions of human behaviour in near real-time. Every day 30m+ GPS pings feed into the Retail Recovery Index allowing us to analyse the vitality of the UK’s 22,000 Retail Places. The table above aggregates this output to a regional level but the same can be done for smaller geographies such as Local Authority Districts, Retail Places & Venues and even at a store level.Forecasting footfall is difficult at the best of times and this year is far from the best of times. Footfall drives spend, it means having the right volume of stock in the right place and the right number of colleagues to sort, stack and serve. In many sectors there has been a seismic shift to online already this year, so what is left to play for? How will the remaining spend be distributed by region or venue type? Will we see trends of localisation continue? What will additional local restrictions mean? How will the destination shopping centre fair vs. the major city centre vs. the village centre? Can we learn anything from what happened following the first lockdown, or perhaps after the Welsh firebreak?Recovery in Wales dropped by 20% during their Firebreak and similar declines have been observed in many of the English regions during Lockdown II. Last week the Welsh recovery was hovering at levels last seen in July, prior to the Eat Out to Help Out scheme but will the proximity to Christmas intensify recovery in England beyond anything we have seen since the start of the outbreak?The graphic below compares some of the UK’s biggest out-of-town shopping centres. Glasgow Fort plummeted last week following tighter local restrictions in Scotland’s ‘5-tiered’ system whilst Castlepoint in Bournemouth has remained more resilient. This is a perhaps a consequence of having three ‘essential’ grocery stores as anchors (Sainsbury’s, Asda and M&S).Fig 2: Weekly Retail Recovery Index for 10 major out-of-town shopping centres in the UK.Fig 3: Geolytix MAPP showing Castlepoint Shopping Park (Geolytix Retail Places) & grocery stores (Geolytix Retail Points)The remaining weeks of 2020 will provide some fascinating insight to conclude an extraordinary year. They may also offer up some clues about what could be in-store (or online) for 2021.One thing is for sure, the dynamism of the retail industry continues to be striking. One particularly prominent example this year has been the rise of the delivery aggregators such as Just Eat, Deliveroo & Uber Eats. It has been hard to miss the delivery drivers let alone the ‘Did Somebody Say…’ advertising campaign. This week Just Eat launched their Christmas ad which may just epitomise the run-up to Christmas in 2020.“Ain't nothin' changed hereGettin' sushi delivered by a reindeerMost wonderful time of the yearIt's a \"Just Eat anything\" vibe over here”Have a safe December all.Tim Pickworth, Associate at GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "Harnessing Mobility Data in Thailand",
      "date": "Fri Nov 27 2020 07:17:13 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/harnessing-mobility-data-in-thailand/",
      "excerpt": "While Thailand has been successful at managing the Coronavirus pandemic the economic toll has been high with a sharp decline in international tourist arrivals and falling private investment leading to a forecasted -7.3% contraction of GDP in 2020.",
      "content": "As the country introduces measures to stimulate economic recovery, investment in network growth will be back on the agenda for a number of our retail clients, who see major opportunities in this large and exciting market. However, as anyone who has undertaken network planning work in the country will know, Thailand is famously challenging from a data perspective with a dearth of sources of reliable data at a level of granularity sufficient to support critical investment decisions. For this reason Geolytix have been interrogating mobility data in Thailand, provided by our partner Unacast, to establish how it can help drive insights into shopping, work, and travel behaviour, with a particular focus at the moment on how patterns are evolving post-Covid. Chonburi Province to the South East of Bangkok provides an interesting case study given its fast growing population, high tourist volumes (in normal times), and diverse industrial landscape including Thailand’s primary seaport at Laem Chabang and manufacturing facilities of multinationals (and associated foreign communities) in and around nearby Siracha.Geolytix have aggregated Thai mobile device data gathered by Unacast to hex-grids which allows us to map activity levels over time as well as understand work and travel patterns (as the mobile device data contains both a home location and a workplace flag).The data reveals that Pattaya has unsurprisingly been hit the hardest in terms of reduction in activity, largely due to international tourist numbers falling to effectively zero. We see a slight increase in domestic visitors to the resort (defined as individuals with a home location greater than 100km away, so including weekend visitors from Bangkok) but far from enough to compensate.Further north in the manufacturing zones around Siracha we also see a drop-off in activity in 2020 compared with 2019. However further north in Chonburi city itself activity levels are actually slightly higher in 2020.On a more granular level the data can be used as a proxy for footfall to support individual store investment decisions. The hex-grids in the example below are shaded based on the level of activity with the label indicating a Geolytix-derived score for each cell.We are seeing growing interest in mobility data, in the UK and other markets, either on its own or as an input into a spatial model. Based on our exploratory analysis Thailand looks like another market where this data can provide a boost to retailers in gaining a deeper understanding of consumer movement and the evolution of work, shopping, and leisure behaviour patterns.Luke Whittam, Business Development Director at GEOLYTIXPhoto by Braden Jarvis on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Barnsley – the future looks bright for a town with real heart and soul",
      "date": "Thu Nov 19 2020 09:55:50 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/barnsley-the-future-looks-bright/",
      "excerpt": "Across the country, 2020 has been challenging in a way that none of us expected it to be. Every village, town and city across the country has its own story of how the year has unfolded, and the impacts of COVID-19 have been felt.",
      "content": "For Barnsley, the story is set against a backdrop of remarkable investment in the town centre that provides ground for optimism that better days still lie ahead, despite the trials of 2020.Barnsley has seen incredible change in recent years, with a £200m investment plan re-invigorating and transforming the town centre. The investments are aimed at creating a repurposed town centre for the future.They have already seen the relocation of the historic award-winning Barnsley Markets, named the UK’s best indoor market by the National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA) into its contemporary new home in 2018. Followed by the new state-of-the-art Library @ the Lightbox and popular independent food court Market Kitchen, which both opened their doors in 2019. Library @ The LightboxQuoted by the Yorkshire Food Guide as the town’s hottest foodie destination, Market Kitchen offers a diverse dining experience and pre-Covid was attracting visitors from neighbouring towns along with a loyal local following.Award winning Barnsley MarketsThe Glass Works, designed to have a strong family appeal will open in September 2021 and comprises of 25 shops, including Next, TK Maxx, Sports Direct and USC, along with JD Sports which opened its doors earlier this year and Deichmann opening in December 2020.https://theglassworksbarnsley.com/It will also offer two key leisure destinations; Cineworld – an advanced 13-screen multiplex with 4dx technology – and Superbowl UK. These key leisure venues will be complemented by family friendly eateries – including Nando’s, Muffin Break and MEET. Coffee Boy and Falco Lounge also part of The Glass Works are already trading.Geolytix have worked with Barnsley Council to understand the impact of events in 2020 on town centre activity levels, and will continue to do so to understand and measure the initiatives that are being put in place to ensure Barnsley comes back stronger. The use of anonymised mobile device activity from Unacast allows for regular measurement across place and time.Back in February, activity levels in Barnsley were showing strong and encouraging signs that the investments were yielding positive results:However, the arrival of Lockdown 1 saw activity levels plummet to 15% of baseline levels:The recovery out of Lockdown was gradual, driven by the phased re-opening of Retail, and then F&B, with Barnsley as with other smaller urban centres outperforming many city centre locations. The strength of the towns independent offer and the diversity of the market were felt to be key drivers behind the initial recovery:By September, activity levels had stabilised at around half pre-lockdown levels despite a difficult context of public transport constraints and consumer confidence challenges:With the Council, retailers and customers alike, adapting to allow shops to remain open safely, the Tier 3 restrictions in Barnsley saw no downward movement in activity levels when introduced on 24th October, although there was a clear impact on F&B operators.Following hot on the heels of the local Tier 3 lockdown, came National Lockdown 2.0 – and the closure of non-essential retail resulting in a sharp drop – and levels back to those last seen in May:The data and associated intelligence provided by Geolytix plays a key role in shaping local recovery plans.With hopes of a vaccine promising, a return to normality at some point in 2021, the bold vision for the town centre promises to position Barnsley strongly in the future.Paul Clifford, Head of Economic Development at Barnsley CouncilBen Purple, Director at Geolytix"
    },{
      "title": "The Wales Firebreak",
      "date": "Wed Nov 04 2020 17:50:05 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/the-wales-firebreak/",
      "excerpt": "The Wales Firebreak that came into effect on 23rd October attracted a great deal of media attention last week, with photographs of cordoned off ‘non-essential’ aisles a regular feature. But has the Wales Firebreak worked in terms of reducing activity?",
      "content": "The answer appears to be a resounding ‘Yes’. The regional week-on-week drop we saw in our Retail Recovery Index was the biggest regional drop since the initial national Lockdown in March. Activity levels in city centres and town centres were down to the levels of late March. Cardiff City Centre has dropped to just 10% of its baseline level. Swansea, Newport, Cwmbran and Wrexham have also reverted to their late March / early April lockdown lows.That story is repeated across the towns, villages, urban centres and parades across Wales. 95% of the 280 Retail Places we measure in Wales showed week on week declines.\n\n\n \n \n Retail Place\n \n \n Type\n \n \n Local Authority District\n \n \n % Change Last Week\n \n \n \n \n Cowbridge\n \n \n Town Centre\n \n \n The Vale of Glamorgan\n \n \n -60.2%\n \n \n \n \n Denbigh\n \n \n Town Centre\n \n \n Denbighshire\n \n \n -54.7%\n \n \n \n \n Barmouth\n \n \n Town Centre\n \n \n Gwynedd\n \n \n -52.1%\n \n \n \n \n St Davids\n \n \n Town Centre\n \n \n Pembrokeshire\n \n \n -47.1%\n \n \n \n \n Rhayader\n \n \n Village Centre\n \n \n Powys\n \n \n -46.5%\n \n \n \n \n Knighton\n \n \n Town Centre\n \n \n Powys\n \n \n -42.6%\n \n \n \n \n Prestatyn\n \n \n Town Centre\n \n \n Denbighshire\n \n \n -41.9%\n \n \n \n \n Llangefni\n \n \n Town Centre\n \n \n Isle of Anglesey\n \n \n -40.6%\n \n \n \n \n Blaneau\n \n \n Town Centre\n \n \n Blaenau Gwent\n \n \n -40.6%\n \n \n \n \n Abersoch\n \n \n Town Centre\n \n \n Gwynedd\n \n \n -39.5%\n \n \n \n \n Tonypandy\n \n \n Town Centre\n \n \n Rhondda Cynon Taf\n \n \n -38.1%\n \n \n \n \n Raglan\n \n \n Village Centre\n \n \n Monmouthshire\n \n \n -38.1%\n \n \n \n \n Ebbw Vale\n \n \n Town Centre\n \n \n Blaenau Gwent\n \n \n -35.9%\n \n \n \n \n Aberdare\n \n \n Town Centre\n \n \n Rhondda Cynon Taf\n \n \n -35.9%\n \n \n \n \n Blackwood\n \n \n Town Centre\n \n \n Caerphilly\n \n \n -35.4%\n \n \n \n \n Tenby\n \n \n Town Centre\n \n \n Pembrokeshire\n \n \n -34.3%\n \n \n \n \n Pontyclun\n \n \n Town Centre\n \n \n Rhondda Cynon Taf\n \n \n -32.9%\n \n \n \n \n Talbot Green\n \n \n Town Centre\n \n \n Rhondda Cynon Taf\n \n \n -32.7%\n \n \n \n \n Mold\n \n \n Town Centre\n \n \n Flintshire\n \n \n -31.9%\n \n \n\n\nThe early experience of Wales gives some sense of what we might expect from the England Lockdown. It will also provide a clear comparison point as we seek to understand whether the different approaches have different effects; most importantly on the ability to contain infections, but also on the vitality of the retail sector as we move into the Christmas run-up.Ben Purple, Director at GEOLYTIX\n\n\n\n\nPhoto by Nick Fewings on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Consistency Across Borders",
      "date": "Tue Nov 03 2020 09:31:57 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/consistency-across-borders/",
      "excerpt": "As retailers increasingly take a more regional or even global view of multi-channel strategy, the importance of defining and applying a consistent data and analytical approach across borders has also increased.",
      "content": "One such example of this is a project we are actively working on to quantify the long-term future spend potential of key global cities. To ensure direct comparisons of cities can be applied, we set ourselves a clear aim to undertake a consistent approach to the analysis across country borders, but what did this mean in reality?Breaking down the tasks, we first defined the quick wins, the non-negotiables if you like, the factors we knew we could apply in a consistent manner, this included the sectors we wanted to analyse, the time-period of the analysis, and the global currency and exchange rates to be applied.This was followed by some of the more challenging decisions, such as how do we define the city extent? Take New York for example, working through our suite of US geodata we could define the city as the 5 boroughs, New York state, the Metropolitan area or even just Manhattan? Depending on who you ask all technically ‘right’ answers, but each would give contrasting views, and how could this approach then be applied with Tokyo or Paris for example. Delving through the internet for inspiration not surprisingly led to even more confusion with a multitude of different population forecasts for the city. In the end we decided to utilise city metropolitan areas given they were large enough to include the full extent of each cities urban sprawl and could be applied in a logical fashion to any city in the world.Finally, the key conundrum, how do we account for local factors? No analysis of Dubai for instance would be complete without accounting for tourists, but this is much less important in other cities. How do we also account for data that is widely available in some cities but not others? And what about cities where retail spend has already recovered from the impact of COVID-19, is it fair to compare these directly with cities that are still experiencing a significant impact on retail spend?Defining the rules of engagement for these factors was indeed harder, local factors no doubt had to be accounted for, and why wouldn’t we use the most up to date data sources available in some cities if we could. For data, our approach was to break this down into priority tiers, with global data sources such as the United Nations, IMF and Google’s Mobility data prioritised, followed by regional and then country level data sources. To account for the potential on-going impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, we applied a range of best and worst case scenario strategies, defined using a further set of consistent rules which ensured cities which were currently severely impacted by COVID-19 restrictions weren’t penalised in comparison to those coming out of restrictions.Ultimately, through breaking down our understanding of the term consistency, and by using scenario-based strategies we have been able to define and apply a robust and transparent framework to directly compare locations across borders.Matt Martin, Associate at GEOLYTIXPhoto by Andrew Stutesman on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Tiers and Tears",
      "date": "Tue Oct 27 2020 10:41:56 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/tiers-and-tears/",
      "excerpt": "Since areas of the UK began entering local lockdowns in September, we have assembled these boundaries as a useful resource to track what is going on. ",
      "content": "Following England’s new COVID-19 alert tiers which came into place this month and local restrictions changing daily, we have created a spatial file to visualise these; we aim to update the shapefile regularly with any changes in tiers. Wales has now entered a national firebreak lockdown (from 6pm Friday 23 October until 12:01am Monday 9 November 2020). Northern Ireland announced a 4 week country-wide lockdown which started 16th October 2020. Scotland has local restrictions in some areas but will be introducing a 5 tier system to their councils from 2nd November. Currently there are regulations that apply nationally alongside extra regulations that apply locally. The majority of England is currently in Tier 1, which is the medium alert level and has restrictions such as the “rule of six” and restaurants closing at 10pm. Tier 2 is the high alert level, which has increased restrictions including prohibiting households mixing in indoor settings. Tier 3 is the very high alert level with restrictions being further increased. There are restrictions and laws for each tier.UK Lockdown TiersWe have used our processed admin boundaries to release a shapefile which includes the boundaries, the admin level of the boundaries and the corresponding tiers. Among many other use cases, this data would be extremely beneficial for retailers that are wanting to highlight which tier each of their store locations fall into and assess the impacts that the different local restrictions might have on their business. There are lots of maps online but not so many with the spatial element which is why we think this would be a helpful open data release for many; you can download here. You can also find out more about our Admin Boundaries data pack on our website. If you would like to know more, please get in contact.Rebecca Mellor, Data Analyst Apprentice at GEOLYTIXPhoto by Matt Seymour on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Historic England - High Street Heritage Action Zones",
      "date": "Wed Oct 21 2020 11:41:04 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/historic-england-hshaz/",
      "excerpt": "How can you use data to identify ‘similar’ locations? For retailers, looking for areas similar to those with high performing stores, this may be a simple enough task. Counts of surrounding population, competition and demographic data lend themselves well to similarity modelling.",
      "content": "What if we cast this net further, what if the objective is to gauge similarity in dimensions beyond just supply and demand? Recently we have had the pleasure of working with Historic England to solve this problem; using a data driven approach to help measure how similar two areas are.Historic England’s aim is to monitor the progress and impacts of their High Street Heritage Action Zones scheme (HSHAZ) against a baseline of other similar non-HSHAZ locations.By using a data-driven approach, we hoped to remove, or at least reduce any bias and subjectivity which are inevitable when comparing locations that we know well. Data was collected from a variety of sources, and covers five key categories:\nDemographic and socio-economic status\nCommercial environment\nWorkplace statistics\nInfrastructure/points of interest\nHistoric environment\n\nQuantifying some of these datasets required a little extra thought. For Historic Environment, an approximation of listed buildings per address was used as a key input. Size was attributed using our urbanity dataset (to ensure Manchester would not match with Manningtree). A town’s catchment was calculated using our Retail Place gravity model. To understand how the destination is used, a commercial to residential property ratio was calculated…An example of why these very different data sources were all important can be seen here: If we were to compare Chester with other towns using the Indices of Multiple Deprivation, and # of households within a 10 minute drivetime (the types of datasets we’re very familiar working with in location planning), we’d see that it is almost statistically identical, to Norwich. Not the worst match, but this probably is not the first town which springs to most people’s mind when asked to name somewhere which reminds them of Chester.However, when we factor in other information on the makeup of the town itself, our most similar matches include Worcester, Colchester, Oxford, Cambridge and York. Much better! Which factors contributed to these matches (it wasn’t number of cobbles and ye olde sweetshops)? Catchment urbanities, strength of retail offerings, proportion of listed buildings and worker densities are all very similar across the towns.This does not mean however that we should abandon our traditional location planning datasets though. A town’s recent industrial past may be hard to quantify directly, but demographic datasets can still help us to create sensible matches. Former mining towns such as Barnsley, match with other northern post-industrial towns (e.g. Burnley and Blackburn as top matches in this case); sensible matches which are largely driven by the towns’ catchment demographics and size.The learning here is that whilst many of these data values alone don’t tell us a whole lot about the personality or identity of a place, when combined and used as a means of identifying statistically similar locations, the data is brought to life. It is may be easy for those who have visited Chester and York to understand their similarities. By combining a variety of very different datasets we have shown that it’s possible to identify such similar locations using a data driven approach.We are looking forward to seeing how the HSHAZ programme continues to evolve over the next few years and the benefits it will bring to our much-loved high streets. If you’d like to learn more about the High Street Heritage Action Zones programme, you can read more here.Danny Hart, Data Scientist at GEOLYTIXPhoto by Rachel Hannah Photo on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix Town & Suburb Boundaries",
      "date": "Mon Oct 12 2020 17:57:48 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/town-suburb-boundaries/",
      "excerpt": "A common remark we get from clients is their surprise that there is no official published source of suburb/town/city boundary. 8 years ago, Geolytix’s created the Town and Suburb data pack.",
      "content": "Town and Suburbs were the original product of which Seamless Towns and Suburbs were created from. Both beneficial data packs depending on your use case. Where Seamless Towns and Suburbs gives 100% coverage across the UK including the more rural hinterland areas, Town and Suburb identifies the urban areas and draws clear definitions of these boundaries. At just over 20,000km2 these polygons cover 8% of the UK’s land area, and over 97% of the UK’s population live within them. The 25,559 areas have been further classified based on population count ranging from Major Urban (> 300,000 pop) down to Hamlet (< 120 pop) and groupings in between (Large Urban, Medium, Urban, Town, Small Town, Village). ~750 of the largest towns (population of 20,000 or over) have been further split into suburbs.The classifications we have assigned can be particularly beneficial to retailers looking to identify locations for growth or estate optimisation. Overlaying their store network and recognising which places they are in and the density of which and which they are not can offer potential opportunities to review further. Different formats can also benefit from the classification attribute; which places have potential to support larger stores with higher populations and less sustainable density of network across the country, whereas a convenience format in areas with a lower but still substantial population for which there are more of.Geolytix Town & Suburb Boundaries - Bristol areaThe boundaries are recognising where the people are and can be used to define potential commuter zones, marketing strategies and identify more local areas, particularly useful given the COVID-19 pandemic, which has instigated a more local interaction to our day to day lives.If you would like to know more about this product or any others please get in contact.Louise Cross, Global DataPhoto by Benjamin Elliott on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix scoop the ‘Data for Environment’ top spot at the Data IQ Awards",
      "date": "Thu Oct 01 2020 08:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/geolytix-scoop-the-data-for-environment-top-spot-at-the-data-iq-awards/",
      "excerpt": "“Because once Green Spaces are lost, they are lost forever” - Fields in Trust",
      "content": "Last night, Geolytix were delighted to win the prestigious DataIQ Award in the Data for the Environment category.Green Space has never been more important for our physical and mental wellbeing (estimated £34.2bn of value), yet not all of us have equal access. The Fields in Trust organisation created the Green Space Index for this reason. In partnership with the Co-op, they came to us to take it a step further. To deliver support and intervention to green spaces in the communities that need it most. “In 2020 there are 2.69 million people in Great Britain not living within a ten-minute walk of a park or green space. Over the next five years alone, this figure will increase by 6.46% - that's an extra 174,000 people without access to a park or green space close to home. As our communities expand it is important that we ensure adequate local green space is provided.” (Fields in Trust)The DatalQ awards celebrate the top performers in data, highlighting the skills, commitments and capabilities of individuals, teams, organisations and solutions. Geolytix are proud to be among the award winning teams.Sarah Hitchcock, Chief Operating Officer at Geolytix said “ Working with Fields in Trust allows us to use our data and data science expertise for good. We are delighted that we have been recognised in this category as it has been one of our most enjoyable and fulfilling projects of the year. A big thank you to Christopher Storey and Dan Dungate, our data scientists who led the analysis, and to Fields in Trust for choosing us to support them.”Alison McCann, Policy Manager at Fields in Trust said “Fields in Trust is a charity that champions and protects local parks and green spaces. As part of our Green Spaces for Good strategy we set out to be more evidence-led in our approach. Building on our previous research which called for Parks to be revalued for their contribution and not just seen as a maintenance cost, we wanted to develop a robust data model that gives us guiding principles to prioritise areas to focus our work where we can have the most impact on communities and maximise our fundability. We worked closely with Geolytix to scope out what data could be used to identify areas of strategic need which is based on local green space provision, the inequality of access to parks, physical and mental health, affluence, demographics and household types (no private garden). The resulting model scorecard has been revolutionary for directing the charity's work and also provides an incredibly rich source of data that is helping to make our engagement work with stakeholders much more compelling and ultimately ensure local parks and green spaces are legally protected for current and future generations.”"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix Seamless Town & Suburb Boundaries",
      "date": "Tue Sep 29 2020 17:11:27 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/seamless-town-suburb-boundaries/",
      "excerpt": "A common remark we get from clients is their surprise that there is no official published source of suburb/town/city boundary. 8 years ago, the first iteration of Geolytix’s Seamless Town and Suburb were created. ",
      "content": "We all know the area we live, the place we are from and the town we work in; the answer could be the same for them all or different for each. We so frequently share these names with others to give insightful information about ourselves. However, these places do not have an official boundary as designated by official bodies but as identified by local people.At a higher administration level, such as Counties and Regions, boundaries can easily be downloaded from online, saying you live in South Yorkshire or Yorkshire and The Humber gives vague locational context. At a lower administration level, such as Output Areas and Wards there are also official corresponding boundaries that can simply be downloaded from online but it would be unlikely you would tell someone you live in E00172481. Even wards with more recognisable names do not capture that local insight of naming conventions and their familiar coverage.Whether people consider it or not they are regularly searching using place names; browsing properties for sale in a certain area you desire to live, looking for a holiday cottage in your favourite spot, ordering a pizza online and relying on it coming quickly from your closest branch, weighing up the distance they are willing to travel for that bargain eBay purchase and finding events and activities. All these searches are common occurrences and for many purposes the user in these scenarios is not concerned with the extent of said boundary but rely on precisely returned results to be generated seamlessly from the backend. Therefore, the data feeding these results should be as accurate and reflective as possible.This established data set gives exactly that requested boundary and has been built from published open data sources, local insights, and feedback from its many users in varying sectors over the years. This popular and recognised data set is continually improved and updated ensuring it offers boundary definitions as they would be recognised by a local.Seamless Towns consists of over 25,500 named boundaries with a current population count. This has full UK coverage made up like a jigsaw. ~750 of the largest towns (population of 20,000 or over) have been further split into suburbs. The full coverage means wherever is selected on a map has a town assigned so all the hinterland areas fall within a boundary which makes this ideal for searches. The data is a dynamic input into multiple property portals (OnTheMarket.com) and search engines, helping to define catchments for retailers and gazetteers. If you would like to know more about licensing this product or any others please get in contact.Louise Cross, Global DataPhoto by Benjamin Elliott on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "The road to recovery: monitoring UK Retail Recovery using MAPP",
      "date": "Thu Aug 27 2020 10:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/monitoring-uk-retail-recovery-using-mapp/",
      "excerpt": "Town centres, high streets, retail parks & shopping centres across the UK are experiencing varying rates of retail recovery as lockdown eases. ",
      "content": "We’ve been working with a number of Local Councils, including Harrogate Borough Council, to help monitor footfall, as shoppers gradually begin to return to the high streets.Using anonymised aggregated mobile device activity data as a proxy for footfall we have developed a Retail Recovery Index which scores locations based on current activity levels vs pre-lockdown levels. A weekly feed of the data ensures that our understanding of the retail landscape at a small geographical level across the UK is up-to-date and reflective of the current situation. \n\n\n\nFor Harrogate Council, amongst others, we have delivered the data and insight through MAPP, our online market intelligence and mapping solution. The bespoke tool that we have built easily allows users to review a location's retail recovery levels and compare it against both the regional and national averages.We’ve also developed a reporting functionality to chart the index for all locations over time which can be saved and shared as a PDF. Users also have the ability to export the full history of the index (going back to pre-lockdown levels) to a CSV for ad-hoc analysis if they wish.The data for Harrogate, Knaresborough and Ripon has shown a gradual upward trend since non-essential retail started to open on the 15th June. It has been encouraging to see retail recovery levels start to improve as more shoppers flock to their local high streets again and we hope that this trend continues.Jasmin Fitzpatrick, Product Owner - Mapp at Geolytix"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix Retail Points - August 2020 - Including UK coverage of Spar",
      "date": "Tue Aug 25 2020 10:50:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/retail-points-update-august-2020/",
      "excerpt": "As a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, many supermarket store openings and closures for this quarter were delayed.",
      "content": "This includes the closures of Waitrose in Waterlooville and Four Oaks, which have been pushed back to September in an attempt to help meet the high demand in food and essentials during the recent circumstances. However, some of the scheduled openings and closures still went ahead allowing us to create the 17th version of Retail Points.Aldi continued to open a number of stores including Canal Road, New Bolton Woods at the end of April and Top Valley, Nottingham mid July. The Waitrose in Helensburgh opened for the final time at the beginning of May and is set to be replaced by Morrisons in the near future. Central London also saw a few openings this quarter, with Lidl opening on Tottenham Court Road at the end of April and a Sainsbury’s Local opening in Leicester Square mid August. Morrisons launched a new store format on June 15th, opening their first Home and Nutmeg only store in Bolsover.The previous version of our Retail Points included Spar stores in Northern Ireland. For the latest release we have now updated the data set to include Spar stores for the whole of the UK. This is an additional 2,074 stores that have been rooftop geocoded by Geolytix.You can download our latest release of the Retail Points open dataset here along with it’s documentation. If you notice any missing or new stores that we haven’t included, please get in touch.Rebecca Mellor, GEOLYTIXImage by nrd on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "How can data help our tourist towns recover?",
      "date": "Mon Aug 10 2020 13:39:42 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/how-can-data-help-our-tourist-towns-recover/",
      "excerpt": "We’ve been pondering this question at Geolytix. Here in our local state of Victoria, Australia, our tourist towns have been hit by the double whammy of horrific bushfires followed by the Covid-19 Pandemic.",
      "content": "The catch cry of the moment is “We’re all in this together”. So here’s an idea for helping tourist towns to learn more about themselves and support each other. Something we do a lot in our work is to find similar locations and situations so retailers and communities can benchmark themselves. This might be used to understand the potential value of investing in a new location, or to work out what the most successful format is to open. But some work we’ve done on Community Wellbeing for the Co-operative Group in the UK (where we indexed areas against a set of 9 common criteria) made us think how tourist towns might benefit from a similar understanding of which other towns are ‘like them’. Here’s the link to the Community Wellbeing Index if you want to take a look… https://communitywellbeing.coop.co.uk/Paring ‘sister’ towns with similar profiles allows towns to connect with each other and share knowledge. The town profiles might be built from any number of variables, including the number of tourists visiting, split between domestic and international tourists, demographic profile of tourists, how far they travel, how long they stay, demographic profile of local residents, local employment profile, core tourist activities, accommodation types, number of cafes & restaurants, local attractions etc. Knowing which towns are ‘like yours’ can also facilitate learnings between local councils. Specifically, what initiatives other councils in similar towns are taking to support local businesses and encourage tourists to return. And, of course, how effective these interventions are. At State Government level this data allows quantification of the impact on towns from the bush fires and pandemic, and helps guide the type and scale of investment needed to head towards recovery. There’s a wealth of data we can use to understand towns pre-Covid, during lockdown and post lockdown to make informed decisions. But, it’s just as important to simply know there’s another town out there like yours, to be able to reach out and support each other through these difficult times.If you’d like to discuss the idea of a Tourist Towns Sisterhood Index in more detail please contact Samantha Colebatch at samantha.colebatch@geolytix.com.Title Image: Geolytix enjoying the touristy delights of the Bellarine Peninsula, Victoria, Australia (pre Covid)"
    },{
      "title": "The office, to be or not to be? Or is the real question... where?",
      "date": "Wed Jul 29 2020 15:40:59 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/the-future-of-the-office/",
      "excerpt": "Like many an office biscuit tin, ours is sadly on a career break. ",
      "content": "The future of the office, especially those located in city centres, is a matter of consternation following the Pandemic. When will it be safe to return, how will the office work with social distancing, will the trend for Working From Home continue, or are we all desperate to see our colleagues? As always, location matters! Melbourne’s Central Business District has been hit hard as we cope with not one, but two lockdowns. Even when the first lockdown was lifted, most opted to stay close to home. Our trains and trams were quiet and the CBD was lifeless. When we think ‘offices’ let’s not forget that there are many office buildings, over 20,000, located in middle and outer Melbourne and rural Victoria. Will it be the decentralised, local office hubs that flourish? They tick many boxes:The need to stay close to home to contain the spread of disease.A reduction in commuting emissions.The human need for community and social interaction.Without the culture of presenteeism and technological barriers, perhaps corporations will see the benefits of a hub and spoke office network. Do teams actually need to be all physically located together if they’ve managed to WFH during lockdown? Perhaps working alongside other colleagues, or even those from other companies, in a small office hub, can provide the social interaction and creative collaboration many of us miss.Our top picks for the best ‘local office’ hubs in middle and outer Melbourne:In the North - Preston and EppingIn the West - Footscray and SunshineIn the East - Camberwell, Hawthorn, Armadale/Malvern, Kew, Croydon, Bayswater, Box Hill, Blackburn, Mitcham, Ringwood and BoroniaIn the South East - Brighton, Oakleigh, Clayton, Dandenong, Frankston, Moorabbin/Cheltenham and Mornington.These areas all have over 200 existing office buildings and are located near to a cafe hub, for that all important morning latte!Office buildings and cafe hubs in Melbourne (source: Geolytix Workers Australia January 2020, Geolytix Cafe Places March 2020)The chances are we’ll all be in a fluid, blended combination of being in the office and WFH for the foreseeable future. All the Geolytix team, from the UK to South Africa, are already either WFH or in co-working office spaces. WeWork are a particular favourite for our APAC offices. The winners in the co-working office space will be those with ‘local’ locations, not just city centres. Let’s hope we can all wheel out our office biscuit tins again soon!Samantha Colebatch, Commercial Director"
    },{
      "title": "Retail Trend in Mainland China - 2019 Review & Outlook",
      "date": "Wed Jul 22 2020 17:21:25 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/retail-trend-in-mainland-china-2019-review-outlook/",
      "excerpt": "Over the past three years, the top 10 consumer cities in mainland China witnessed the opening of 437 brand new shopping malls – an average increase of 43 malls in each city!\n\nAnd that hasn’t taken into account any reopening’s after upgrading or redevelopment. ",
      "content": "A noticeable rise of renovation on the existing retail space was also observed in China’s major cities. In 2019,The Ministry of Commerce proposed a pilot program of renovation and improvement on 11 pedestrian streets across the country. Local government in Beijing proposed a scheme of upgrading 22 retail places (i.e. retail clusters) in the coming three years... According to the latest statistics from Geolytix, a minimum of 12 shopping malls/department stores in Beijing had gone through a large-scale upgrading or redevelopment in 2019; and in Shanghai at least 14 malls saw significant renovation in the past year.Retail landscape in China is being reshaped much more rapidly than any other countries in the world. In the meantime, the integration of online and offline channels is also becoming a vital part in retailing and marketing. The epidemic in early 2020 has further fueled the explosion of “online lifestyles\" in China, and the discussion has also attracted attention of every retailer and mall operator: How to balance/integrate the investment of online and offline in a longer term?If you are interested in this topic and want to have your say, you are welcome to leave a message here or email info@geolytix.co.uk.You are most welcome to contact any Geolytix colleagues to get the latest Geolytix Report: “Retail Trend Watch in Mainland China: 2019 Review and Outlook”, which is focused on three questions:\nIn the context of OMO (Merge of online and offline) period, who are the “emerging forces” occupying prime retail spaces in mainland China?\nWhat kind of changes are taking place in the retail landscape?\nWhat is the key in balancing/integrating the investment in the era of “omni-channel” retailing?\n\n* \"Top 10 Consumer Cities in China\" is ranked according to the total retail sales of consumer goods in 2018, which are: Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Chongqing, Wuhan, Chengdu, Shenzhen, Nanjing, Suzhou, and Hangzhou* Cover Photo: Emerging Leisure brands in China – Pop Mart, which opened more than 400 normal stores and over 500 robot stores nationwide in 2019.Coco Lin, GEOLYTIX 过去三年，中国大陆十大消费城市共计新开437座购物商场——平均算下来每个城市至少增加了43座全新的商场！上述统计并未将升级改造重开的商业项目计算在内。2019年，中国商务部提出全国11条步行街试点改造提升；而北京市则提出三年内拟改造提升22个商圈…各大城市正掀起商业存量整改的新一轮浪潮。Geolytix数据显示，在北京和上海， 2019年进行大面积升级改造的项目分别达到了12个和14个。中国城市零售空间格局正发生飞速改变。另一方面，线上线下整合布局也成为众多品牌渠道规划与营销管理的重要环节。2020年初的一场疫情，催生了中国人“线上生活方式”的大爆发，更将“全渠道零售”的课题摆在每个零售人和商业地产人面前。过去这个月，我们集结了团队经验智慧与大量数据，希望通过回顾历史、分析当下，预判未来并提出建议。我们重点聚焦分析了三个问题：- 在线上线下齐发展的背景下，哪些“新生/崛起力量”在抢夺线下优质商业空间？- 中国大陆零售空间格局在发生怎样的变化？- “全渠道”零售时代，优化整合各类“平台、触点”的要领何在？如果您有兴趣了解更多，或有相关灵感、经验与我们分享，欢迎在此留言，或邮件至：info@geolytix.co.uk。您也可以随时联系您身边的Geolytix同仁，获取我们的最新报告《零售趋势年度回顾与前瞻：中国大陆》。*“中国十大消费城市”按2018年社会消费品零售总额排名，分别是：上海、北京、广州、重庆、武汉、成都、深圳、南京、苏州、杭州。* 封面照片：2019年实体门店拓展之星“泡泡玛特”：全年新开400+家门店和500+家机器人店。Coco Lin, GEOLYTIX "
    },{
      "title": "PRESS RELEASE: Geolytix Retail Recovery Index",
      "date": "Wed Jul 08 2020 10:15:41 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/geolytix-retail-recovery-index/",
      "excerpt": "There seems to be a broad consensus on top-level recovery rates in the UK as lockdown eases. But every city, town, village, shopping centre, retail park and local parade has its own story.",
      "content": "8th July 2020Geolytix Retail Recovery Index Why has Luton town centre recovered to 55% of previous activity levels, but Edinburgh city centre only 13%?Why is Merry Hill shopping centre at 46% recovery, but Westfield Stratford only 22%?Why have places like Swanage, Ross on Wye and Boroughbridge bounced back to 70%+ levels of activity, whilst places as diverse as Banff and Kingston are less than 20%?Geolytix Retail Recovery Index, w/c 26th June 2020The picture is complex and dynamic. Looking at some of the biggest movers last week, we can see the effect of non-essential retail opening in Scotland, and school holidays in Northern Ireland. We can also see QSR-anchored Retail Park like Hatters Way in Luton, and Hermiston Retail Park in Consett start to motor.Geolytix Retail Recovery Index, w/c 26th June 2020Geolytix’s Retail Recovery Index measures Retail Recovery across 6,000+ Retail Places in the UK. Weekly reporting provides a dynamic view of the evolving picture of recovery, with real-life examples across an unrivalled breadth of places across the country.For more information, and to understand Retail Recovery in places you are interested in, please contact Ben Purple – ben.purple@geolytix.comGeolytix Retail Recovery Pre and Post Lockdown in OxfordQSR = quick service restaurant"
    },{
      "title": "Retail Recovery - Que Sera Sera?",
      "date": "Mon Jun 29 2020 14:19:36 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/retail-recovery/",
      "excerpt": "We’re often asked what a good level of forecast accuracy looks like. The answer is always: it depends. Some things are hard to forecast. Really hard. Even harder than convenience store turnover. Like, will things ever return to normal?",
      "content": "There’s no shortage of views and opinions. “UK will be back to normal by August, says WHO expert” on one hand. “We must shake off the fantasy that we can go back to the past we are accustomed to”, says the mayor of Seoul on the other. There’s obviously only one thing to do when faced with such a difficult forecasting problem: ask Geolytix.Unfortunately, as Doris Day said, the future’s not ours to see. There are a whole number of scenarios that might unfold, each of which will have a different implication for different businesses. Depending on which come true, it will shape the property decisions – where to open, where to close. It will drive the format decisions – what type of offer to put where. It will determine the in-store, home delivery and click and collect requirements of a physical estate. It could mean tweaking around the edges, or it could mean a complete overhaul of a portfolio.To move the discussions from a ‘he thinks, she thinks’ view of the future, people are increasingly looking to data to help shape their understanding of what is happening. Mobility data is being used to understand activity levels – how many people are out and about, where are they going, what are they doing?We’ve historically been what we’d describe as ‘healthily sceptical’ of mobility data, for 3 main reasons. Firstly, for a long time, the quality of the data was underwhelming; it promised so much, but on close inspection could never quite get to the level of granularity and accuracy that would make it compelling to understand micro-level pitch. Secondly, it was very black box, and the inherent flaws and skews in the data were impossible to get under the skin of and mitigate. Thirdly, it was expensive; often prohibitively so.But – it’s near real-time, and in the scenario-modelling of the future, that’s a huge advantage. So we’ve been investing an enormous amount of time, money and effort in mitigating the issues that have made us healthy sceptics in the past.What we’ve ended up with as a result is 15 billion pings of high quality, highly granular location data over the last year and a half, with a feed adding to that number every day. That allows us to truly understand the data and be completely transparent with clients about it. It allows us to build things like our Retail Recovery Index but also use the data to answer a huge array of bespoke client questions (where is the optimal pitch at lunchtime in city centre x, where are customer around store y coming from, what’s their demographic profile, where were they an hour before they were in the vicinity of the store?).The Retail Recovery Index is telling the same headline story that is being reported across the national press (we really need to get some friends in the media – if you know anyone, please shout!). Overall, recovery is cautious, the opening of non-essential retail gave a visible boost to activity levels in city centres and shopping centres, and there is a regional skew, with London lagging.That’s obviously very reassuring in terms of the data all saying the same thing, but the real value is in the golden nuggets of detail under the surface, and the way that the spatial differences in recovery map across to individual branches and businesses.Recent headlines like ‘Shopper numbers surged 45% in week English shops re-opened’ might be a true footfall measure from a camera-operated major shopping centre, but for an operator with a portfolio balanced across parades, High Streets and town centres, that’s obviously not what’s really being seen. Linking to our Retail Places gives us a daily read on over 6,000 diverse locations across the UK, and clients are benefiting from the ability to geofence around their estate to get a bespoke read of the recovery around their estates.In short, the picture is complicated, and uncertain, and highly changeable. In the absence of a crystal ball, the ability to map the data to the specific areas around stores within any given portfolio, get a regular up to date feed of how activity is changing, and use that to simulate the most likely scenarios might be the best we can do.If you would like to find out more, please get in touch with Ben (ben.purple@geolytix.com) or Tim (tim.pickworth@geolytix.com).Data for the above charts and graph is for w/c 19th JuneTitle Image: Photo by Joe Stubbs on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "COVID-19 and the rise of Click & Collect",
      "date": "Fri Jun 19 2020 08:00:45 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/covid-19-and-the-rise-of-click-collect/",
      "excerpt": "I didn’t order anything in the first 10 weeks of lockdown, conscious that I didn’t want to pull a delivery worker out if it wasn’t an essential visit.",
      "content": "Last week I decided that the statistics were improving and the economy needed a boost so I’ve joined the millions turning to the internet to support their shopping while they Stay Home. So today, a piano music book, a pair of shorts, a water toy and a pair of trainers have all arrived separately at my door.I’ve written before about how I’ve become much more environmentally aware in the last year or so. The use of plastic has not been on my mind as much during the pandemic, and I’ve tended to pick up the plastic container of mushrooms, rather than fill a paper bag at the supermarket. I am still clicking on links on my Facebook feed from companies selling products to help the environmental crisis we face:All the 3 products above; loo roll, toothbrushes and ‘cling film’ I buy at a supermarket – either in my weekly shop, which includes one short car journey, or in my online shop which includes the same short journey by a van.If I bought these 3 products outside my weekly shop, it would result in an additional 3 trips, but each product in itself helps the environment compared to its alternative. There is no clear winner when it comes to the environmental cost of online vs in-store.Online shopping is going to continue to rise. Time will tell whether the current rise in localism during the COVID-19 pandemic will be sustained. Environmental packaging, electric vehicles (or better still cycles) for the last mile and making people aware of planning ahead and not relying on same/next day delivery to avoid empty vans, are all ways which can support the rising environmental cost of online in the future.A significant win would be the rise of click & collectUK Grocery C&C accounts for a small percentage of transactions, in comparison to our French counterparts, who love ‘Click & Drive’ shown by half the sales of E. Leclerc being C&C back in 2018 (source: Nielsen and FEVAD)However, many UK households have turned to grocery click and collect during the COVID-19 pandemic, as supermarkets prioritised the elderly and vulnerable for online delivery. A proportion of these C&C customers will realise the benefits and continue with C&C post lockdown lifting.Other retailers, for example Dunelm Mill, have started to offer click and collect for the first time in the attempt to not lose customers who now don’t want to enter a store.A survey last month of 2,004 consumers by Qudini shows that 42% are now more likely to use click and collect services. Qudini help retailers improve the C&C experience by using software to enable customers to book slots and digitally announce when they have arrived at store, something that will become ‘the norm’ in the future.As the world start to leave their homes again (when it is safe to do so), and they can’t guarantee they will be in for deliveries, they may be now be more willing to click and collect than they were previously.Picking up from a C&C location ensures couriers can make less trips with full vans and can reduce the environmental impact of the last mile significantly. Retailers can offer C&C as a free service to the customer, in order to manage ‘last mile’ costs.Click and Collect can be a triple winner - helping the retailer, customer and the environment.Sarah Hitchcock, GEOLYTIXTitle Image: Photo by Henrik Dønnestad on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix UK Postal",
      "date": "Tue Jun 09 2020 16:03:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/uk-postal/",
      "excerpt": "\"For speed and certainty always use a postal district number on your letters and notepaper\"",
      "content": "History of the PostcodeIn 1856 Sir Rowland Hill, inventor of the postage stamp, introduced a scheme to accelerate mail delivery which divided up London into 10 postal districts - 8 of these still exist as postal areas with S being repurposed to Sheffield and NE to Newcastle. The first postcodes were introduced in Norwich in 1959, using the letters NOR, before being rolled out across the UK in the 1960s. Postcoded letters are read by Royal Mail's machinery and sorted 30 times faster than those dealt with by hand.Postcodes DirectoryPostcodes are an integral part of running our society, where previously letters between people and companies were a means of communication and storing information, we now depend on them for delivery of our online shopping in a timely fashion and guiding satnavs.There are over 1.76 million postcodes units across the UK, the National Statistics Postcode Directory (ONSPD) is released by the Office of National Statistics (ONS) each quarter. Our postcodes are shared (on average) between 15 properties or a single major delivery point, in reality it could be between 1 and 100, this is usually along a single street which means creating boundaries using postcodes can help identify areas of similar demographic characteristics. SW1A 1AA is the postcode for Buckingham Palace.Photo by Sung Shin on UnsplashE20 6PQ is the postcode for Albert Square in the fictional borough of Walford - this was revealed in September 2011. In March 2011, Royal Mail allocated the E20 postal district to the 2012 Olympic Park.Photo by Tom Wheatley on UnsplashPostal Area, District, Sector124 postal areas cover the UK, these are indicated by the first one or two letters. These areas are then broken down into postal districts (indicated by the one or two digits following the area code) of which there are 3,118 - these are a mix of geographic and non-geographic boundaries. The Royal Mail formatted postcode then has a space followed by a number which reveals the sector. As of May 2020 there are 12,433 postal sectors, as like districts not all of these are geographical. Usually between 3,000 and 4,500 new postcodes are introduced each quarter, between 1 and 5 new sectors are established by these. Sectors are an ideal size for both geographical summary and homogeneous traits to perform analysis.Geolytix has a Postal data pack which contains boundaries for these three levels, these are updated each quarter which involves extending current boundaries, creating additional and sometimes removing them due to termination of postcodes. Blair first created the postal sectors in 2012 using a combination of methods, this version was released under the same terms as the OS open data license with the single attribution of Geolytix Ltd, you can download them from here. We now manually update the boundaries which not only allows us to have maximum accuracy building on from a brilliant original product but also means we can continue to use natural features such as roads and waterways to display them beautifully on a map. These are valuable in property portals for search definitions, key geographies used within customer insights and marketing teams and also offer an alternative reporting and display geography. Geolytix UK Postal is well established data continuing to grow the number of clients and sectors who depend on this product. If you would like to know more about licensing this data or any other data packs that GEOLYTIX have available please see our website or contact us.Louise Cross, GEOLYTIXTitle Image: Photo by Dele Oke on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Tokyo’s Covid-19 Experience – What Happens Next?",
      "date": "Fri May 29 2020 11:07:13 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/tokyos-covid-19-experience-what-happens-next/",
      "excerpt": "Tokyo today is likely to join the rest of Japan in having the coronavirus “State of Emergency” lifted.",
      "content": "It’s been an unusual couple of months to say the least. Japan has not had a hard lockdown as seen in many countries around the world; schools are closed, the government advised residents to work from home where possible, and asked certain categories of businesses to close and others to restrict opening hours, but these requests were not legally enforceable. Despite this many retail chains decided to shutter their stores resulting in much of downtown Tokyo resembling a ghost-town. Here is the famous Shibuya Crossing and Cat St. Harajuku on Saturday May 2nd. I took these pictures while running in these areas which under normal circumstances would be completely unthinkable due to the crowds.While the main urban hubs are spookily deserted more local shopping streets or shotengais have remained bustling hives of activity. Mobile application data supports this showing traffic levels have remained relatively high in these areas. This is Togoshi Ginza in Shinagawa-ward, at 1.3km in length famous for being the longest shopping street in Tokyo, this Monday lunchtime. Smaller chains and independent shops have remained open throughout helping to keep the local economies of these areas ticking over.Despite the restrictions some brands have thrived: while sales at popular casual dining chains have plummeted due to restaurants being closed KFC Japan reported April sales 20% higher than in April 2019. Even McDonalds sales were up 6.5% for the same timeframe despite only being open for takeaway or delivery. KFC in Japan has a very strong takeaway offer, and this clearly positioned it well to weather the Covid-19 storm.The question that everyone is asking is what happens now? How quick will the recovery be (and will it be V, U, W or L shaped?) Will the preference for shopping locally persist or will people flood back into central Tokyo to shop? Will the increased share of sales being made online reverse or endure? At least to some extent Japan seems to have overcome a resistance to working from home – if this persists what does it mean for retail in and around major business districts? In the casual dining sector will people continue to prefer using takeaway/delivery options rather than dining-in?These issues generate all kinds of network planning challenges as old data and models become largely redundant. No-one can see the future but Geolytix are supporting our clients with flexible scenario modelling to tackle the questions above and support decisions at the network or individual store level as markets all around the world enter the recovery phase. Underpinning this is access to hyper-local mobility data which is helping us to understand changes in human activity, in close to real-time, in order to help businesses plan and be ready for any eventuality. See here for more information or please contact us to explore further.Luke Whittam, GEOLYTIXTitle Image: Thanks to Jezael Melgoza for sharing their work on Unsplash."
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix UK : Retail Place Boundaries",
      "date": "Fri May 22 2020 13:23:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/uk-retail-places/",
      "excerpt": "Geolytix Retail Places is the ultimate product for profiling, describing and modelling UK retail. The data set currently has 21,942 identified areas of retail reaching from City Centres to parades of 3 units. It continues to be a popular and established product since it's very first release in 2012.",
      "content": "There are 13 different types of Retail Places. Parades are the most common in the UK currently with 13,808 boundaries, 61 city centres and 1,257 town centres, from larger town centres such as Chelmsford to smaller such as Grassington.Each place is named, categorised and scored giving an accurate retail landscape to support decision making. These polygons and attributes make the data invaluable to clients whether they are looking to run opportunity scans or portfolio rationalisation, sales forecasting or town centre modelling and catchment creation. A wide range of sectors benefit from the insights using this product including Retail, Bookmakers, Investment Firms and Real Estate.In addition to the Retail Place data set we also offer Retail Venues and Retail Pitch which can all be used complimentary to each other. Retail Venues are boundaries specifically defining the concentration of retail within a retail place such as a shopping centre or train station. For example Trinity Leeds is a shopping centre venue within Leeds retail place and Birmingham New Street within Birmingham.Although it is useful to identify large centres of continuous retail as one centre, it is also important to recognise that not every location within a centre is alike. Variations in the level of supply and in the strength of the retail provision mean that some areas within a centre will be able to attract a larger numbers of shoppers than others. Retail Pitch attempts to identify these hotspots and gaps by calculating the degree of local concentration of retailer attractiveness over a hex grid across the place.Updates to this data pack are released every 6 months and include completely new developments such as The Springs, a retail and leisure park in Leeds which opened in October 2018. This includes many popular food and fashion retailers including Nandos, Costa Coffee, JD Sports and River Island. Leisure outlets Pure Gym and Odeon Cinema have also opened. Last year the new Herten Triangle, Doncaster leisure park was added which opened in April 2019 with units including Burger King, Estabulo Brazilian Restaurant and TGI's. Extensions to current Retail Places are also captured, intu Lakeside Thurrock and Ashford Designer Outlet were both completed in November 2019. intu Lakeside now has a Nickelodeon Adventure entertainment centre with a variety of adventure zones and it's own food area and merchandise section. Ashford Design Outlet's extension involved adding Puma, Starbucks, Coach, Armani and Dr. Martens stores amongst many others.If you would like to know more about licensing this data or any other data packs that GEOLYTIX have available please see our website or contact us.Title Image: Thanks to Artur Kraft for sharing their work on Unsplash."
    },{
      "title": "Retail Points - Spar and Dunnes in Northern Ireland",
      "date": "Sun May 17 2020 10:43:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/retail-points-v16/",
      "excerpt": "We are releasing the 16th version of our open Retail Points data. For this update we have included Spar and Dunnes stores for Northern Ireland.",
      "content": "When we last released the Geolytix Retail Points update in January of this year none of us expected to be in the midst of a global pandemic for the next release. We have been releasing the Retail Points as open data since 2014, this being the 16th version, and over those years it has continually grown to be a popular, familiar and dependable data set used by many across varying sectors.The COVID-19 outbreak has altered our routines and transformed our every day lives. Convenience shopping became a common habit in the last decade, purchasing a few food items regularly - from picking up breakfast on the commute, to popping out the office for lunch and grabbing a meal on the way home for the evening. In a matter of weeks retailers are now indicating that \"The weekly shop is back in fashion\". I don't think this comes as a surprise given the UK lockdown guidelines but it has been dramatic to see the shift which is reflective of grocery shopping habits in the nineties and early two thousands.The supermarket is one sector that has continued trading during this period and although the opening times have varied, as expected there hasn't been as many opening or closures since March. Back in January Tesco re-branded a number of One Stop stores to their Tesco Express fascia. Sainsbury's closed their Princess Square, Bracknell and two stores in Middlesbrough (Linthorpe Road & Crescent Road). They also temporarily closed 12 stores where they were experiencing low footfall due to their locations being in worker areas for example at train stations. M&S closed their Kingston Shopping Park, Milton Keynes and Dorchester stores in February. Morrison's opened their new Amble store early April. Lidl continues to open stores with 16 opening across January and February taking them to 800 stores in Great Britain, with a goal of 1,000 by 2023. Aldi have opened a number of stores so far in 2020 including Gallagher Retail Park, Scunthorpe at the end of January and Stadium Way, Eccles which opened 23rd April, while also relocating their Central Retail Park, Havant store a few units along. Iceland entered the Northern Ireland market with their Food Warehouse in February when they opened their flagship store in Newtownabbey.For this update of Retail Points we have included Spar and Dunnes stores in Northern Ireland, we will roll Spar out to full UK coverage in the next release. You can download the data and accompanying documentation here.Please get in touch with any missing or new stores we haven’t captured. We’d like to thank everyone who continues to give us feedback and letting us know about how they’ve been using this resource.Louise Cross, Product Owner at GEOLYTIXTitle Image: Photo by Clem Onojeghuo on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Retail Network Planners – Your World Needs You.",
      "date": "Fri Mar 27 2020 10:44:42 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/retail-network-planners-your-world-needs-you/",
      "excerpt": "Retail powers our modern world. The bars, the shops, the gyms, the post offices, the coffee shops, the estate agents, the bookies, the car showrooms, the petrol stations, the pharmacists. Everything.",
      "content": "You take away retail, who pays for the lawyers, the accountants, the factories, the offices, the transport networks, the advertising, the doctors? We power the world. And we are amid the largest ever natural experiment to befall retail, by an order of magnitude. The changes we see short term, some will fade, some will be permanent. The recovery of our economy depends on us all helping those who make the huge decisions in retail get it right. Real estate is the largest reservoir of wealth in the world. We all know how one wrong decision can cost tens of millions for one asset, or a company’s existence at the network level. We will all be influencing many more of these decisions in the next year than we may have made in our careers to date.Let us resolve to learn as much as we can from this natural experiment. What happened to clothes shopping when there were no clothes shops? How did the loss of shopping from work affect our stores? What happened to the money that would have been spent in bars? How did the people who cancelled their gym membership differ from those who didn’t? What happened to our petrol station volumes by site? How did our cash-to-card ratio evolve? How has behaviour varied by region and country and customer? And when we slowly, tentatively emerge from our different lockdowns. Which bars and restaurants boomed, and which fizzled? Will the new localism persist post-lockdown? Do our formats need to change, and if so how and where? Do the new work-from-home patterns persist? Does cross-retailer co-operation continue via shared logistics? Which brands are irrevocably damaged? Which shopping centres are fatally wounded? Does the world become more open to global solutions, or retreat to seemingly safe but stunted nationalism? How do we citizens deal with the emerging tracking and data harvesting? Sadly, many retailers will not survive in their current form. Some will go bust, some will merge, new and perhaps unusual combinations will appear. We will see a bigger corporate shakeout than at any time since the Second World War. We network planners must, repeat must, stay sharp.Over the last week we have been chatting to many of you across the world. We are struck by your calmness, resilience and good humour. Many of you are already looking to the future, planning, thinking, deciding. The world needs us all, more than ever before. Change is dangerous, thrilling and demanding. We all, by a lucky quirk of fate, possess the skills and business chops to help the world recover. Make no mistake the economic hit is mighty. As with a huge strike to a hundred ton bell the economy will continue to ring long after the clapper has struck.I have left our corporate condolences to the second last paragraph. I know we are lucky, preternaturally so. We all have friends in terribly straightened circumstances. Fearful, unsure and adrift. Some already unemployed, many in industries that will not recover quickly if at all, and many in companies that, through no fault of their own, are unlikely to make it. This is horrible.To end, our personal condolences. If you have lost, or fear you will lose someone close, please accept our impersonal but heart-felt sympathy. This event is a collection of thousands of broken hearts. Just yesterday four of us shared stories of planting our spring seeds. “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow”.1By retail I mean businesses that sell products and services often purchased outside of the home.Blair Freebairn, GEOLYTIXPhoto by Stanislav Kondratiev on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "COVID-19, Community Spirit, Colleague Support and Candy",
      "date": "Thu Mar 19 2020 19:23:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/covid-19-community-spirit-colleague-support-and-candy/",
      "excerpt": "It’s not often that I get involved in blogs for Geolytix and you won’t hear much from me in the future but I thought I would take the opportunity to write one on this occasion. It's mainly to promote the difference that an enjoyable working environment & team can make to the wellbeing of its people.",
      "content": "We have all heard about COVID-19 and by now we may even be a bit sick of it, I will come back to this in a bit though. When I started at Geolytix, 3 years ago, I had been out of the office environment for over 10 years. I liked my previous company and I made some great friends while I was there but when I started at Geolytix nothing really prepared me for the special group of people that worked there.I was number 13 when I started (unlucky for some but very lucky for Geolytix ;-)). My basic role was explained thoroughly and I was actively encouraged to develop it in whatever way I thought I could. This has continued throughout my employment there, not just for me but for everyone. They are always trying to help you achieve both professionally and personally.The culture at Geolytix is work hard, play hard and gradually over time more staff were recruited and each time a new member arrived, they came with something else to bring to the Geolytix table. Most of the time without even realising it. Globally there are now 35 of us!Geolytix have always promoted a flexible working structure, encouraged part time workers and already had an accommodating working from home policy.After my first year at Geolytix, an unexpected personal situation arose for me which took the wind out of my sails and turned my world upside down, this is when I realised how much Geolytix actually cared for it’s people. I was supported and cared for relentlessly. For about 6/7 months Geolytix encouraged me and let me take the lead in getting back on my feet - Which I have done.Since then I have been forever grateful that I landed the job there. From team trips and drinks, the continuous office banter, to winning business and at times losing it, Geolytix gives a new meaning to the word TEAM! When COVID-19 first came to light in China, the senior team reached out to our Shanghai office using our team platform, everyone offered support, kind words and reassurance. Being part of that team was amazing and being able to support them all despite being so far away was a great feeling. They actively encouraged people to take the measures they needed to recover from this awful situation.When the seriousness of COVID-19 became a realisation in the UK, Geolytix gave everyone the option to take the steps that made them comfortable. Some worked from home with immediate effect, others stuck it out until it became a necessity.We were given permission to take equipment such as screens and screen stands home to make working easier, given constant updates and told that if we needed anything at all to make our work from home situation more comfortable to just ask and more importantly if we needed someone to talk to we could do so.When this happened, amazing things took place. We looked at ways to keep ourselves from feeling isolated as a company and ways we could help our clients. We suggested a bit of friendly competition to keep us moving so we downloaded an app where we could all keep our steps monitored to encourage exercise and we can see each other's progress so there can be no cheating!! This quickly escalated to googling “How Many Steps it would be to walk The Great Wall of China” and off the back of that we are going to attempt combining our steps to reach it! For those who are curious it’s a massive 27,816,272 steps! WISH US LUCKA book club was formed for those who wanted to read and discuss, our first book is The School of Life by Alain De Botton.People shared tips on keeping the children entertained whilst our movements outside the home were restricted and work needed to be carried on. This included a “PE with Joe” link and The 30 day Lego Challenge.Sharing playlists on Spotify, one of which is titled “Totally Stress Free” - We could all definitely do with that at the moment!We have been sharing events that are happening online that we might like to get involved in - One of our favourite bars (Piano Works) is hosting a “Dance Like No One is Watching” Night on Friday. I know full well a few will be dancing around their living room to that.Some of the team have led training sessions in their areas of expertise by video call which have really benefited newer members of the team - I am planning on leading one in “How To Dance to Candy by Cameo” - If this is new to you, it’s definitely worth a googleA discussion was opened on ways we could help the community using our analytic & MAPP skills - Which isn’t my field of speciality but it’s great seeing the outputs the team are producing My point is that there are lots of positive things happening within this tricky time for us, both personally & professionally. We just need to recognise, encourage and celebrate them.Everyone here continues to work hard and ensure that despite this surreal position we find ourselves in we are able to deliver our products and services while following these steps, which will not only help us grow and bond as a team but also as friends, even more so than before.I hope that all workplaces are supporting each other in this tough time the way mine is. We can only hope that this passes as quickly as it arrived and leaves people being kinder to others. In the meantime stay safe! Donna Kirton, GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix in The House. Helping the Co-op support Wellbeing in the Community",
      "date": "Fri Mar 06 2020 10:47:40 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/coop-community-wellbeing-index/",
      "excerpt": "On Tuesday Blair, Dan and Jasmin attended the parliamentary launch of the Co-op Community Wellbeing Index at the House of Commons. Geolytix worked in partnership with the Co-op to develop this index which aims to quantify the wellbeing of communities.",
      "content": "GEOLYTIX has a long-standing relationship with the Co-op through retail location analysis and support, but in 2017 we embarked on a new collaborative journey to build the first measure of Community Wellbeing at a local level across all four nations of the UK. This unique index (updated in November 2019) encompasses GEOLYTIX GeoData, open data and Co-op Member participation data, and is underpinned by primary research conducted by the Young Foundation in 15 communities across the UK.The Co-op is the UK’s largest consumer co-operative, with 4.6 million active members and a presence in every postal district in the country, with around 2,500 food stores and 1,000 funeral homes. It is a member-owned organisation with a clear social purpose that exists to create value for members and the communities in which it trades. One way in which this is demonstrated is by 1% of Co-op member spend on Co-op branded products being given to local causes through the Local Community Fund, as chosen by members. These causes are at the heart of the local community, which can range from libraries and community centres to bereavement support groups or sports and music clubs.The Index was created to help share the Co-op’s community campaigns and strategy, providing data-driven insight into where the greatest differences can be made. The primary research, conducted by the Young Foundation, identified nine key areas: 1. Education and learning, 2. Culture, Heritage and Leisure, 3. Relationships and Trust, 4. Health, 5. Transport, Mobility and Connectivity, 6. Equality, 7. Economy, Work and Employment, 8. Housing, Space and Environment and 9. Voice and Participation. The Index is used to help to understand what communities need most, whilst at the same time actively encouraging them to get involved to help make their community stronger.Unlike most other measures of Wellbeing which exist at Local Authority District or Regional level, the Community Wellbeing Index – as the name suggests – has been built at the Community level. As there are no geographical definitions of communities, the Index harnesses the GEOLYTIX Seamless Towns and Suburbs boundaries, designed to reflect local neighbourhoods, of which there are over 28,000 across the UK. An overall Wellbeing Score has been calculated for each of these individual communities, which is further broken down into nine separate scores covering the key areas. This will consequently help to support funding decisions, prioritise resource and benefit some of the most disadvantaged residents in the UK.To illustrate this point, if we enter the postcode of the GEOLYTIX office in Kings Cross, London into the Co-op Community Wellbeing Index, we get the following:This tells us that the community is slightly above the national average overall and is particularly strong on \"Education and learning\", “Culture, heritage and leisure” and “Health”. However, where it under-indexes most is “Equality” and “Housing, space and environment”. Given the prevalence of homelessness in the area alongside the influx of luxury apartments to house the tech-giant workers, the index reflects the area well. The wave of gentrification that swept across Kings Cross in recent years, like many other places across London, has undoubtedly created large inequalities within the area, as the Index suggests.We hope the Community Wellbeing Index proves a useful guide for driving evidence-based action in communities, in ways that will have positive consequences on local areas. So far it has gained significant interest from a wide range of audiences outside of the Co-op, from local councils to charities to academics…and we expect this list to continue to grow.So, why don’t you take a look at the Wellbeing of your local area and let us know if you agree?For more information, including how the Index communities link to other admin and statistical geographies please get in touch.Jasmin Fitzpatrick, GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "Physical Retailing Post Epidemic: Standing on a New Crossroad",
      "date": "Wed Feb 26 2020 12:23:36 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/physical-retailing-post-epidemic/",
      "excerpt": "COVID-19, more commonly known as Coronavirus, is a global epidemic potentially heading towards becoming a pandemic. It is having an effect on retailing; Geolytix China have looked at the impacts on their country's retail sector.",
      "content": "An Explosion of Online Lifestyle Due to the impact of COVID-19, most Chinese people have been staying at home for more than three weeks. This is a normal working afternoon at the CBD in Guangzhou, China. It was neat & beautiful as usual, well-ordered, but it seemed so empty, and much quieter.At the same time on the other side of the city, two more self-check-out points opened in the neighborhood supermarket, but there were still long queues.Monday 17th February 2020: CBD, Guangzhou / Supermarket Queue in GuangzhouSupermarkets must have been the busiest and most lively public place over the past three weeks in China. To avoid being infected by the virus, staying away from public places has proved to be the best solution. However, food acquisition, as a life necessity, has beaten the panic toward infection risk. During this special period, supermarkets have well addressed people’s daily needs. It has also functioned as a comfort for any depressed and anxious people after a prolonged time of staying at home.Traditional supermarkets have struggled over the past few years, due to the disruption from online shopping and an increase in people dining out and using food delivery. Given the epidemic situation with restaurant closures, logistics slowing down and an under-serving online grocery offer, greater reliance has resumed on supermarkets. They’ve suddenly become so busy, that because of insufficient manpower, Hema supermarket (Freshippo) even developed a new model of “shared economy” – sharing staff among restaurants.The biggest beneficiary seem to be the online fresh produce and grocery platforms. The surging customer base was totally unexpected three weeks ago. Even some “old-fashioned” grandmas and grandpas have become new fans of shopping online. New temporary delivery points have become a special sight at the gates of many neighbourhoods.Temporary Delivery Collection Points at the Gate\"Necessity is the mother of invention.\" In a way, necessity during this epidemic triggered the explosion of a new lifestyle: Online shopping, entertainment, education, medical service and cloud work platforms have all become vital parts of our daily life.A New Crossroad Facing Physical RetailingIn this context of \"online lifestyle\", we want to dig into such questions as:\nWill this trend of “consumption shifting online” in the past few weeks continue in the long term?\nIf yes, what then, makes physical retailing valuable?\n\nIn 2019, the online retail sales of consumer goods in China reached 8.5 trillion RMB, accounting for 20.7% of the total retail sales. With expanded user groups “born” in this epidemic to continue their contribution, undoubtedly this figure will climb to a new high in 2020.In fact, this is a not a new trend to retailers in China. For many retail brands, investments into online have long been in full swing. Meanwhile, online business channels are also diversifying: Traditional e-commerce platforms such as Taobao, Tmall and JD.com are facing increasing challenges from new platforms such as WeChat Mini Programs, Tiktok KOL Live Marketing etc. Omni-channel retailing is becoming more and more complicated.However, it doesn’t mean that physical retail venues are falling out of the game. Thanks to mobile payments and immediate delivery, a “delayed transaction” could happen anytime and anywhere after a consumer’s store visit. Physical stores are likely to turn the “offline traffic” into potential online shoppers. They may not purchase during store visit, but they could always buy from the WeChat mini-program or other online channel anytime anywhere later. In some sense, it is a “traffic generator” for online sales.Since Jack Ma, founder of Alibaba, developed the concept of \"new retail\" and launched Hema Supermarket (Freshippo) at the end of 2016, more and more traditional e-retailers entered the “offline” battle ground. Among them, there are JD.com, Lifeease.com, Three Squirrels, Perfect Diary, Inman fashion etc. Benefiting from the data and experiences accumulated through previous online operation, their offline expansion easily outraced their peers, and proved to be more efficient. On the other hand, through “adding WeChat friends” from offline stores and interacting with them, they’ve acquired new customers and more online transactions. According to data presented by Perfect Diary, 65% of their new customers are from offline stores.Therefore, the focus of retailers' online competition today is no longer how many e-channels you operate in, but how efficient is your omni-channel campaign? Have you successfully achieved data interactions of online/offline channels, and transferred them into sales transactions?On the other hand, it has been proven that the passion for physical shopping and an entertaining environment will never be diminished because of the impact from online consumption. After more than three weeks of “quarantine” at home, Chinese consumers have grown an even deeper feeling and understanding about their profound demand on “space with various functions”, “offline social interaction”, and “physical, situational experiences”.A recent online survey by People's Daily presented some interesting results about “What do you mostly want to do after the epidemic?”: More than 100 million people participated in this survey, sharing these common answers: “get out to public spaces, watching people come and go”, “get-together with friends”, “go travelling”, “outdoor sports”. Other behavior data shows that on 20th Feb, Hangzhou Tower shopping center witnessed a sales break-through to 11 million RMB within 5 hours of re-opening!An imminent call for omni-channel network integrationThe campaign of traditional e-retailers going offline has suggested how important it is to have the leverage of offline outlets. The most typical cases are Hema Supermarket (Freshippo) and Luckin Coffee, who require consumers to place orders and payments through their dedicated mobile app. In this way, they’ve successfully created a membership ecosystem and accumulated data covering both online and offline: location data, consumer profile, and behavior data successfully linked up.Obviously, it is unrealistic to ask the consumers to install endless apps. Nevertheless, when a retailer is selecting an online platform, it is worth checking: what kind of “data return” could I get?In the short to medium term, some shopping malls may suffer from rent drops and tight cashflow. To retailers, a tenant market might be on the horizon. But more importantly, this is also a key point to review and layout an integrated omni-channel network plan!To shopping centres, this might be the worst of times, and the best of times. In addition to further effort on “looking attractive, optimizing experiences, creating freshness and differentiation”, a very important subject for shopping centers is to think about how to provide more value to tenants, by online/offline integration. In fact, some front-runners in this industry have invested significant resources on relevant technology a long time ago, and this has proved to be unexpectedly fruitful.VR Shopping (K11) - Click white points on the floor / WeChat Contact Wechat Mini Program (Parc Central)GEOLYTIX China疫情引发的实体零售新课题COVID-19，又曰新型冠状病毒，似乎正成为引发全球恐慌的流行疫症。中长期来看，它对零售业会带来怎样的影响？ 请看来自Geolytix中国的前沿分析。线上生活大爆发2020年2月17日。因为新冠疫情，大部分中国人已自行在家隔离三周有余。这是周一的下午。广州珠江新城CBD。本该人来人往、忙中有序的城市中心此刻却格外空荡冷清。与此同时，在城市的另一边，社区超市里新增了两个自助收银台，却仍然排着长队。超市大概是三周以来整个中国最热闹的公共场所了。其他公共场所，人们能避则避；但买菜做饭，却是“刚需”。社区超市解决了大家最基本的饮食需求，也让在家郁闷焦虑的人们有了一个出口。过去几年受到网购冲击，以及人们外出就餐和叫外卖的频次增多，超市变得门庭冷落。然而受到疫情影响，餐馆停业、网购物流配送变慢，超市迎来了命运的反转；甚至因为人手不够，盒马鲜生超市还开发出与停业餐馆“共享员工”的创新用工模式。最火的还是要属生鲜电商了。一些原本对网购不感兴趣的大爷大妈们，这些天也通过年轻一辈手把手的培训，成为了上网买菜的“新鲜血液”。在很多小区的大门口，新增的临时外卖配送点成为一道特殊的风景线。“需求是发明的最大动力”。疫情之下的各种需求催生了“在线生活与工作”的大爆发。某种程度上，这场疫情成为颠覆传统的直接推手：在线购物、娱乐、教育、医疗、云工作平台，几乎在三周之间承载了中国人的主流生活方式。实体零售新课题在“线上生活”的大背景下，我们想要聚焦和反思这样的问题：\n过去几周消费大量转移线上的趋势，是否会长期持续？\n如果会，购物中心和实体零售店们还有怎样的价值可挖掘？\n\n数据显示：2019年中国实物商品网上零售额85239亿元，占社会消费品零售总额的比重已达到20.7%。毫无疑问，这个数字在2020年将再创新高。疫情期间培养出来的网购新用户以及用户习惯，将继续扩大线上消费的阵营。实际上，中国零售商们对于网购大趋势洞察已久，其线上布局和投入早就如火如荼。线上渠道本身也已变得复杂和多元化：传统电商平台如淘宝天猫、京东们不断面临来自微商城、小程序、抖音网红直播等新平台的分流。多触点营销已成为零售营运的不二法则。可以随时随地通过各种渠道发生的“移动支付”和“即时配送”为人们带来了各种便利，同时也让人错觉实体商业正在失去市场。但事实上，在线上零售日益拥挤、成本不断走高的今天，实体商业反而逐渐成为更重要且相对容易把控和追踪的“导流”工具。自2016年底马云提出“新零售”概念、并开出盒马鲜生以来，越来越多的传统电商们开启了线下布局：京东、网易严选、三只松鼠、完美日记、茵曼时装…近年纷纷试水线下。由于之前的线上营运为它们积累了丰富的消费数据，其线下拓展表现也相对更为高效。与此同时，通过线下门店加微信等方式与顾客建立互动，线下客流更有机会对线上反哺。据美妆用品店完美日记公布的数据，他们的线下门店会覆盖65% 的新用户——这些用户之前从未在线上买过完美日记的产品。因此，今天零售竞争的焦点已不再是谁拥有更丰富的线上渠道，而是谁的渠道更高效？谁能实现线上、线下多渠道的数据打通和相互导流？另一方面，人们并不会因为有了网购而从此减少线下场景的消费需求。在家隔离3周或更久的中国消费者们，经过这场疫情，更深刻感知到人类对于不同功能空间切换、线下社会交往、以及不同场景体验的巨大需求。《人民日报》关于“疫情过后最想做什么”的在线调查结果非常有意思。超过1亿人参加了这场讨论。比较共通的答案分别是：“走出家门”、“朋友聚会”、“旅游”和“运动”。另一个有趣的数据显示：2月20日，杭州大厦恢复营业，五小时内，销售额就已突破1100万。多渠道规划布局、线上线下数据打通”迫在眉睫传统电商纷纷“下线”的行为已经验证了“线上线下两手都要抓”的重要性。最典型的案例是盒马鲜生和瑞幸咖啡，它们要求消费者通过专属的手机APP下单和支付，成功打造了跨越线上线下的会员生态系统和数据闭环：位置数据、用户画像、需求、行为等数据实现了精准对接；也为其迅速拓展店群规模提供了强大的数据支撑。当然，如果所有的商场或零售商都要求消费者下载安装自家的APP是不现实的。但是在与线上平台对接的时候，零售商可能需要更多思考：我能得到怎样的“数据返回”？中短期内，我们或许会看到部分购物中心方面承受降租、资金链紧张等一系列负面效应。另一方面，零售租户们可能会赢得更多的议价空间。但对于零售商们来说，眼下最重要的，还是整合多渠道网络规划布局，尽可能实现线上线下的数据打通。同样，对于购物中心而言，未来除了 “提高商场颜值、深化体验、创造新鲜和差异化，同时积极拥抱线上”之外，如何进行线上线下数据打通，并为租户提供更多价值也将成为重要课题。事实证明，部分购物中心提早投资布局线上科技，已经在本次疫情中获益匪浅。Geolytix中国"
    },{
      "title": "Life as an Apprentice",
      "date": "Mon Feb 17 2020 11:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/life-as-an-apprentice/",
      "excerpt": "Geolytix were looking for their first apprentice. Becca was looking for an alternative route to university.",
      "content": "Around a year and a half ago, it was time for me to decide what I would do post sixth form. My peers were all applying to universities and my teachers were encouraging me to do the same. I had always thought I would go to university because I have always been academic, enjoyed studying and understood that getting a degree is a massive achievement. However, whilst not ruling it out in the future, the decision ended up being straight forward for me. With the ever-growing pile of debt and not knowing the career path that I would take after university, I decided against applying to do a degree and decided that I wanted to spend the next year and a half earning whilst I was learning instead.2 months after finishing my A Level exams, I joined GEOLYTIX as their first apprentice. The apprenticeship is in data analytics and by the end of the 18 months I will have the Dell EMC Data Science Associate Certificate, BCS Diploma in Data Analysis Concepts and a Level 4 qualification in Data Analytics. The apprenticeship is through Arch Apprentices and consists of working full time in the Leeds office, with 4 training weeks in Manchester which are spread out across the first 8 months. Within the training weeks, I am learning the content for the exams that I will be sitting, and also gaining exposure to a range of software which is not necessarily used within GEOLYTIX. I attended the first training week in December which was both insightful and interesting, mainly learning the basics of data and giving me the chance to get to know other people doing the apprenticeship.As part of the apprenticeship, I am expected to write up at least 5 projects which display the skills that I use within my everyday work and tick off a list of competencies required to gain the data analytics qualification. I also have regular meetings with my Learning and Development Coach who was assigned to give me feedback on the projects and support me with the progress I make throughout the apprenticeship.Day to day, I am constantly learning new aspects of the job and every working day is completely different. Within my first 3 weeks I had already settled into the Leeds office, visited the London office and been on a team trip to Devon. Although I was thrown in at the deep end, the team welcomed me warmly and I felt completely supported. I have also now been given the opportunities of attending client meetings in Nottingham, attending a data analytics event in Leeds and spending a week in Manchester for the apprenticeship course. I have been part of the GEOLYTIX team for around 5 months which has gone unbelievably quickly. I already feel as if I have developed both personally and professionally, and the experience I have gained so far is completely invaluable.I am now gaining responsibility for tasks including completing regular updates of some of GEOLYTIX’s GeoData packs and the team are including me on various client projects. This is exciting and allows me to develop the skills I have already learnt, whilst also being exposed to learning even more. Whilst I am definitely becoming more confident in the tasks that I am completing, I still make mistakes and learn new things every day. I am looking forward to progressing further and anticipate lots more learning within the year ahead of me.Rebecca Mellor, GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "Chocolat: At home and abroad!",
      "date": "Fri Feb 14 2020 11:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/chocolat-at-home-and-abroad/",
      "excerpt": "Valentine's is a peak in the chocolate gift-giving season (Xmas-through-Easter) and even Hotel Chocolat’s “Chocolate Metropolis” in Leeds was beginning to run out!",
      "content": "Leeds Chocolate Metropolis – The UK’s first!While there is only one Valentine’s day in the UK, Hotel Chocolat’s Japanese stores will need to restock next month in anticipation of ‘White Day’, which is somewhat of a second valentine’s day where guys who receive chocolate today should endeavour to return the favour with romantic 'chocolates of love' (本命チョコ) or friendly 'courtesy chocolate' (義理チョコ).After Christmas and Easter, Valentine's day is a peak chocolate gifting periodsRegardless of intent, Hotel Chocolat is clearly happy to provide delectable chocolate with “More Cocoa Less Sugar” in the UK and increasingly further afield!Hotel Chocolat continues to shine as a distinctive brand and pioneering retailer. Besides creating novel cocoa products and retail experiences, they are increasingly strengthening their multi-channel performance, creating innovative store formats, and proving to be an exemplary modern, connected, and customer-focused retailer. Most interesting of all, however, is their slow but steady expansion across the globe.Show up where the customer wants you! (Source: Hotel Chocolat)BRICK-AND-MORTAR IS DEAD, LONG LIVE BRICK-AND-MORTARWith retailers folding left and right, including the decline of competitors such as Thornton’s, with recent closures in Leeds and York, many may think Hotel Chocolate is bucking a trend. Yet it is more likely they are simply benefiting from the fruits of evolving with the times by reaching consumers at home and online and by providing unique experiential in-store visits.Angus Thirwell, Hotel Chocolat’s co-founder and CEO, made a persuasive argument recently around the issue of company voluntary agreements in the UK, whereby successful companies are essentially penalised for success by default as those companies unable to sustain business at market-level rents are in effect receiving a subsidy. CVA’s certainly have a place, especially when stores are performing well and the issue lies elsewhere, but incentives do matter in a functioning market.Retail has always had patterns of creation, destruction, and renewal. In this regard, Hotel Chocolat is no exception.BEST OF BRITISH – IN A COUNTRY NEAR YOU SOONInitially testing their international expansion in the early 2010s with two US stores in Boston, Massachusetts, and later in Hong Kong and Amsterdam, Hotel Chocolat quickly learnt and applied valuable lessons for their future global rollouts.With, as of December 2019, a presence in the UK, Denmark, Japan, US, Ireland, Spain, Sweden, Jersey, Guernsey, and Gibraltar it’s safe they are quickly becoming a global British success story. Such successes should be celebrated and will hopefully be replicated across UK business over the coming years.Hotel Chocolat’s sure but steady international expansion provides a solid case study that others can learn from. Their approach has been consistent from the start and despite having shuttered initial and early forays in the US and Hong Kong clear lessons have been learnt and applied.Marvellously designed store in Harajuku, Japan (Source: Hotel Chocolat JP)This can be seen in the ownership structure and flexibility in different markets. From a joint venture in Japan with openings in AEON Laketown (largest mall in Japan) and Harajuku (cooler than cool), a multi-year franchising deal across Denmark and the Nordic countries (with the partner given leeway to appropriately grow the business – concessions, wholesale, B2B), and a rather rapid company-owned expansion in the US their ‘test, learn, grow’ approach is measured and definitely one to follow.With such expansion, one may wonder why China has not yet been targeted. However, Angus Thirwell has stated:“We’ll continue to research China but not do anything about it immediately because we need to stay focused, and we’d rather have great success in a smaller number of markets than spread ourselves too thinly and dilute the quality of our proposition.”Too much of a good thing can be bad (sadly even chocolate) and the calculated approach to international expansion has put Hotel Chocolat in good stead. But it will be interesting to see when the natural gravity of the Chinese opportunity will prove too tempting!Clive Drowley, GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "Aldi in Shanghai",
      "date": "Mon Feb 10 2020 11:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/aldi-in-shanghai/",
      "excerpt": "Aldi opened it's first store in China on the 7th June 2019 in Shanghai after it launched an e-commerce platform on Alibaba’s Tmall Global in April 2017.",
      "content": "ALDI first entered China as an overseas e-commerce brand and pivoted the brand towards a more premium image. Launching through TMALL’s ‘Overseas-Flagship-Store’ programme in early 2017 ALDI faced limited risk and gained useful insight for their current brick-and-mortar strategy in Shanghai, which kicked off with two stores in summer 2019. Despite clear advantages, including the relative ease of establishing supply chains, a positive brand image, and a large demand for well-priced and quality foreign goods, ALDI’s arrival in Shanghai will serve as a litmus test for the modern Chinese retail market. With a current portfolio of 6 stores, Aldi clearly has high hopes in China and if they can convince younger middle-class shoppers to avoid cutting back amid global trade tensions and moderated growth then they may be onto a winning strategy. I decided to check out a couple of stores and see what direction ALDI is heading toward for their entry to China. With their focus on quality, price, speed, and most importantly technology I’m left wondering why nobody has been as successful in offering such a fully integrated and easy shopping experience elsewhere.Welcome to Aldi in ShanghaiThe ALDI China Offer and ExperienceIn terms of market positioning, the Aldi China proposition could have gone many ways. Visiting their initial Shanghai pilot store in Jing'an and a more recently built store in Putuo puts ALDI’s carefully crafted China strategy on full display. The traditional value-oriented core of ALDI remains while a greater focus is clearly being placed on both product quality and provenance. The stores are welcoming and offer certain categories at an incredible value, though the bread-and-butter offerings are the food-to-go, quality meat and veg, and semi-luxurious imported goods.An exhibit of quality and origin!Each store was approximately 5,000sqft, which places them somewhere between a convenience store and a middle-sized supermarket in China. The stores evoke the feeling of a modern Chinese convenience store (think Lawsons or 7-Eleven) with little wasted space and a bright welcoming feel. Venturing slightly further into the store reveals a full range of daily goods, alcohol, snacks, and food-to-go yet in contrast to the C-stores you’ll find meat, dairy, vegetables, and frozen goods. On prominent display are a “hand-picked for you” cosmopolitan assortment of products including fresh Australian milk, German-style hotdogs, Shandong beef and Bordeaux wine.Bottled water at ALDI’s Jing’an store and a nearby competitorSurprisingly, ALDI carries a single brand of mineral water in-store. The packaging is simple and elegant, yet the price is especially competitive, with a 500-ml bottle costing just one yuan. For comparison, the usual price stands at two to three yuan in other supermarkets. Targeting such daily necessities is a great way to lock-in cost-conscious shoppers and then tempt them with sushi, pretzels, or a hot baozi food-to-go product or a more indulgent import.Instant-noodles at ALDI’s Jing‘an store and a nearby competitorIn a similar fashion, there was a relatively low variety of instant-noodles in contrast to the abundant choice ordinary found at a Chinese supermarket. This further evidences ALDI's optimisation in product selection in contrast to the mixed bag approach (没有鱼目混珠). Given that floorspace will always continue to demand a premium in 1sttier Chinese cities focusing on productivity earlier is a positive sign.Target CustomerALDI is attempting to become a community-hub as evidenced by the location of their first two stores. One located within a sports centre and another directly adjacent a busy subway, education centre and restaurant hub. In addition to this community strategy, ALDI is targeting customer-segments very specifically. Chief among these are young-professionals and office workers, which helps explain the large focus on food-to-go at the front of each store (along with an expanded C-store type café counter).Many customers paid for their shop at the café-style counter in addition to a snack or drinkBesides a quick bite, this demographic generally wants a swift shopping experience, high-quality goods, and a pleasant environment. The last two points have already been discussed, to address the first ALDI prominently displays signs informing customers of the ability to use a WeChat mini-program on their phone for self-service shopping.Instructions on how to download and use the Aldi mini-app to (really) ‘scan and go’Payment and Home DeliveryThe spare number of self-checkouts seemed relatively neglected compared to the high customer volumes observed across two weeks, suggesting that many customers were indeed using the app to easily scan, pay, and walk out of the store. This may leave certain demographics to queue up or battle with the new (to China) self-checkout system (thankfully, no weight checks). Evidencing this, an abundance of help was observed being given (and politely received) from a delightful shop-assistant at a local Chinese supermarket that had just installed self-checkout areas two months prior.Self-Checkouts at ALDI’s Jing‘an store and a nearby competitor (notice the simplicity in ALDI’s flow-chart instructions)Aldi is using an interesting slogan across their stores and on their bags: handpicked for you (亲选为你). Besides referring to the product selection this phrase somewhat serves to highlight the blue-clad Eleme riders you will occasionally see darting to the back of the store. While most visible to the end customer the rider is actually only responsible for delivery and you can observe ALDI employees walking up and down the aisles selecting online orders, packaging them up and handing over to the rider. So, for customers demanding ultimate convenience, ALDI really is \"handpicked”.Eleme rider walking to the storeroom / home-delivery pickup pointSummaryDiscovery of the first ALDI store was coincidental to investigating this gigantic man-made cliffside (left)It’s fair to say that ALDI China is doing a lot at once. With an altered store format, brand positing, consumer focus, real scan and go, and rapid home-delivery (to mention just a few!) it is nice to see a modern fully integrated shopping experience come together in such well-presented package, and despite the shift in focus it has managed maintain what ALDI is all about. To me, ALDI is about a bargain without compromise and in that regard, the Shanghai stores do not disappoint.Clive Drowley, GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "Augmented Reality in the Physical Retail Space",
      "date": "Mon Feb 03 2020 11:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/augmented-reality-in-the-physical-retail-space/",
      "excerpt": "The high street is in danger, and some stores are turning to futuristic technologies to help stave off the likes of Amazon and JD.com. But what exactly is possible, and where could it lead us?",
      "content": "Retail sales are moving to online, as we all know, and could represent half of the UK retail market by the end of the decade. While there’s something to be said for the halo effect: when a shopper is more likely to spend money in a store after buying products from them online, and vice versa, it’s unlikely to fully make up for the British consumer’s overall decrease in interest in the high street.What then can retailers do to make a trip to the shops less of a chore, and more of a day out? Some stores in the UK have tried anything from live music to home baking workshops, but there’s a piece of technology currently being trialled in stores around the world: Augmented Reality, or AR. While it doesn’t have quite the sci-fi legacy of its big sister Virtual Reality, AR is a wider and more versatile medium, ranging in 2020 from smartphone apps to bulky thousand-pound headsets. But it seems that all kinds of industries have been utilising AR technology in an attempt to entice customers through their doors.Every brand needs an app nowadays to stay relevant, but some retailers are taking things a step further: software like IKEA Place, LCST Lacoste and Redbubble AR allow consumers to try out the look of products in their own home before buying.Over the next decade, AR technologies are speculated to contribute a £44.4 billion boost to the UK’s GDP (scaling to £1.4 trillion globally), which when combined with VR represents the fastest growth of any industry over that period. By 2030, it’s believed that over 400,000 British jobs will involve augmented reality in some way, leading the charge along with Germany and Finland. Many of these jobs will be in sectors like healthcare, engineering and education, but as the technology develops, more and more retailers will want a slice of the pie.Sephora is one of the companies that has taken AR integration a step further by adding a “Beauty Hub” to its Champs Elysée location, letting their customers experiment with different styles, and recommending skincare routines and tutorials as appropriate.Augmented Reality has also been tied into the world of geospatial data, with Google’s new AR mode allowing a user to determine exactly where to go during their journey, to supplement the inbuilt compass which is often confused in large cities. The app sends a simplified image of your surroundings to the cloud, which is then compared with Street View imagery to determine your exact location. There is even a safety feature built in, a warning telling users to only use the mode for brief periods to find their bearings, rather than walk around with their phone held out in front of them.The most visible appearance of AR: games like Pokémon GO, Wizards Unite and Minecraft World have prompted headlines in mainstream press, and use crowd-sourced location data to scatter virtual objects over real geographies for gamers to find and interact with.Some independent artists are experimenting with radical ideas that have the potential to do away with some industries all together. The Fabricant is a digital fashion house, one of many popping up across the world who are attempting to sell clothes that don’t exist. At least, you can’t wear them, but your online persona can, providing the perfect counter to the environmental effects of fast fashion. Indeed, last spring someone paid $9,000 for a virtual dress, perfectly tailored, and perfectly carbon neutral.Combining this nascent shift in shopper’s tastes with comprehensive crowd sourced location data, 5G hyper-fast internet, and sleeker wearable tech (less Microsoft, more Snapchat), we can picture a high-street reinvigorated with a hidden, digital, experiential overlay: impossible artwork, virtual products, but real people.Josh Reynolds, GEOLYTIXHeader Image: Microsoft Hololens"
    },{
      "title": "UK Public Transport",
      "date": "Fri Jan 31 2020 11:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/uk-public-transport/",
      "excerpt": "Geolytix produce multiple GeoData packs which are updated annually and available as a purchased product or use within our services work. Public Transport is vital data when making location-based decisions.",
      "content": "Public Transport locations and links are vital for improving accessibility for people without private transportation, reducing road congestion, lower contributions to our carbon footprint, increase social connections and allow a transit lifestyle. The accessibility of a location directly impacts not only the day to day of individuals but the success that businesses across numerous sectors have. They help individuals to join the labour market connecting a range of skills to diverse job types. Transport locations and passenger counts can be used as a proxy for footfall to support convenience retailing decisions and is important in attracting customers while growing and maintaining sales of a store and wider Retail Place. Property portals display the key features of an area in relation to the property of interest which can impact your choice of home. Stations on OnTheMarketTherefore transport links are a major factor affecting location-based decision making and this is why Public Transport is one of the datasets that GEOLYTIX has produced.We have updated the UK Public Transport data pack which includes; Airports, Bus Stops, Coach Hubs, Cycle Stations, Ferry Ports, Light Lines & Stations, Metro Tram Access, Oyster Card Zone, Rail Lines including lines under construction & Stations including Non ATOC, Taxi Ranks, Underground Lines & Stations.There have been no changes to the number of UK airports, however the update means that the data set now includes passenger data for 2018 and 2019 (as of October 2019). Unsurprisingly, Heathrow and Gatwick take the top 2 for total passengers in both years.Other notable changes include 2 new rail stations in the data set with Worcestershire Parkway Rail Station in Littleworth which was due to open in December 2019 but has now been delayed to early 2020 and Meridian Water Rail Station in north London which opened on 3rd June 2019 replacing the existing Angel Road station. Rail station passenger data for 2017-2018 is also included in the latest update.If you would like to know more about this data set or any other data sets that GEOLYTIX produce, please see our website or contact us.Rebecca Mellor, GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "European Census and Indices",
      "date": "Mon Jan 27 2020 11:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/european-census-and-indices/",
      "excerpt": "Census data is a powerful source of statistics able to describe a population. The data can be complex, messy, expensive, difficult to access and vary from country. Geolytix has taken the time to remove this hassle and make the data accessible, functional and open.",
      "content": "Everyone knows that census data is an extraordinary rich source of statistical information able to describe a population.Everyone probably knows that census data can be very complex and, many times, not the most accessible thing in the world. The data can be expensive, it is not always clean, the number of collected variables differs from country to country and their geographical level might vary a lot as well.This surely doesn’t help people in using it in the easiest possible way and this is why we, at Geolytix, think we created something that might help you out!Geolytix created and released a free “2011 census pack” for ten European countries (you can find extra information here or you can simply download the data now).We also created a lifestage and affluence index for 12 different European countries; Austria, Belgium, Ireland, France, Germany, Portugal, UK, Italy, Norway, Spain, Greece and Slovakia.This year GEOLYTIX have delivered retail network strategy projects across Europe to some of our global clients. These have harnessed our Open European Census data and European Indices. One project for example for a high-end toy retailer, used the census data to identify ‘hotspots’ of children, but also used the disposable income estimates (from the European Indices) to weight the population by affluence. This allowed a more specific target market to be defined as areas of low affluence (at a small geographical level) could be down-weighted reflecting the unlikelihood of these demographic groups to shop at the retailer. This could then be used to score and rank each of the potential locations, helping to form the basis of the network blueprint within each of the markets.To create our indexes we wanted our input data to be three things:1. To be consistent across different countries2. To be detailed as much as possible3. To relate at a small scaleThis means that we invested time in collecting the right data and cleaning it up.The data that we used came from two different sources: the European Statistical Office (Eurostat) and local data (data published from the government of each single country).Both have some pros and cons but, the two biggest differences are about consistency and scale. Eurostat data is consistent across all the European countries but relates to a higher geographical level while the other is not consistent but usually relates to the smallest geographical units each country uses for demographic reporting.Since every country collects census variables differently and that Eurostat uses common variables across Europe, we decided to use Eurostat categories. For this reason, we spent some time in creating a relationship between the two datasets to understand what corresponded to. This was an extremely important step to make because the comparison was not always straightforward. Think of education for example: how different can it be between countries?To create the lifestage index we considered only two variables, age and population, while for affluence we used the following four categories.As said before, beside consistency, we also wanted the input data to be detailed as well.Compared to the local data, which usually collects the population data in age bands, Eurostat is more detailed and it distributes population between 0 and 100 years old. We wanted the same for our input data.For this reason, we started from lifestage and we distributed the population collected at local level (small scale - table 1) accordingly with the distribution we had in Eurostat (big scale - table 2). As a result (table 3) we had, at a small scale, a highly detailed population (0-100 yo).For the affluence variables this was a little bit more complicated. Indeed, distributing affluence variables accordingly with the Eurostat distribution might have created new values which didn’t match the population calculated above.Let’s do an example about two variables of the activity status category, “active” and “inactive” population. The sum of these two variables corresponds to the total population.If at a local level we had an active and inactive population of respectively, 3,073 and 3,549 people, distributing these values accordingly to Eurostat distribution we got, as a result, the table below. In this, it is possible to see that the sum of the “new” active and inactive values matches the starting values (3,073 and 3,549) but their sum (ACT+INACT) does not match the population value calculated for the lifestage index (POP LIFESTAGE).This issue was solved using the IPF (iterative proportional fitting procedure) for a bi-dimensional table. This keeps the marginals (POP LIFESTAGE and TOT active & inactive) untouched and moves the values for several loops until the marginal values are hit.In this map you can see the “Indicators” layer which contains a sample of the results. It refers to the city of Paris, contains just some of the variables used in the index creation and it just refers to the population of 35 years old.At this point the input data for our indexes was ready and it was consistent, detailed and related to small geographical areas.The lifestage index was easily done just using a natural break distribution (8 classes) while the affluence one needed more work. In-fact, the input data contained a lot of information and variables and we had to think how to use all this richness.First thing we did, was to look for something which allowed us to aggregate and to compare our variables. This was the disposable income and then, we aimed to create a regression model to predict the disposable income per person per each census geographical area.To work with such a high number of variables might generate some problems: it is not always easy to understand the relationship between variables and there is a risk to overfit the model.One of the possibilities is to try to reduce the number of dimensions dropping some variables. If this allows to create a simpler dataset, on the other hand it has the disadvantage not to gain any information from the dropped variables. Since we didn’t want to delete many variables, dropping only few variables still created a regression model with a huge multicollinearity.For this reason we decided to use another method: PCA - Principal component analysis. It considers all the variables in the data and it transforms the original variables into a smaller set of linear combinations. This allows us to reduce the number of dimensions without much loss of information. We also tried another method using Tensorflow autoencoders to reduce the dimensionality of the data and it gave back a similar result.Also here, we create 8 classes for the final index (there is an index calculated at European level and one at country level). You can see the lifestage and the affluence indexes in the map.Alessandro De Martino, GEOLYTIX "
    },{
      "title": "UK Supermarket Retail Points",
      "date": "Fri Jan 24 2020 11:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/geolytix-supermarket-retail-points-2/",
      "excerpt": "The latest release of the GEOLYTIX open Retail Points data set with the most recent openings and closures captured.",
      "content": "2020 has had a positive start in terms of UK supermarkets promoting reduced use of unnecessary plastic. Asda has revealed that they are trialling a ‘Sustainability’ store in Leeds which will consist of refill stations where customers can fill up their own containers with items such as cereal and tea, a ‘naked florist’s shop’ and a reverse vending machine for plastic bottles and cans. It has also had a positive start for expected openings of supermarket stores with two Heart of England Co-ops opening in January taking the Society's total to 33, a Farmfoods in Pool also opening in January and Lidl Winton which is expected to open early 2020.Looking back at 2019, the year didn’t end so positively for UK supermarkets, as the big four lost sales over the festive period. However, driven by store openings, Aldi and Lidl were two of the few supermarkets which did have sales growth over Christmas. Lidl had opened stores including Edenbridge, Dragonville, Harrow and Aylesbury in November kickstarting the successful Christmas period which saw their sales jump 11% over the month of December. Despite not having the same success, Sainsbury’s did also open stores throughout November and December 2019. These included a Sainsbury’s Superstore in Olney and Sainsbury’s Local stores in Woodhall Spa, Oxford and Emersons Green in Bristol.The newest openings and closures are now included in our updated Retail Points GeoData set. Unsurprisingly London is the town with the highest number of retail points, currently standing at 1,735 open supermarkets. London has all the retailers included in our data set except Booths, Heron and Jack Fultons which are all yet to open stores further south than Northampton.Birmingham has the 2nd highest population in our seamless towns dataset but trails Manchester with the 3rd highest number of retail points. Birmingham is missing retailers such as Whole Foods, Makro, Jack Fultons, Budgens and Booths. Birmingham has 182 open supermarkets, whilst Manchester narrowly ranks higher with 187 open supermarkets within the seamless town. Manchester is also missing retailers such as Whole Foods and Makro alongside Birmingham and following the closures of the two Little Waitrose stores in 2018, Manchester does not currently have any open Waitrose stores; the closest is Altrincham.The latest Retail Points data can be downloaded here.Rebecca Mellor, GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "When SOLOMO met ME and things got physical.",
      "date": "Mon Jan 20 2020 11:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/when-solomo-met-me-and-things-got-physical-what-on-earth-does-solomome-mean-and-why-should-you-care-d/",
      "excerpt": "What on earth does SOLOMOME mean and why should you care?",
      "content": "First came SOLOMO. It popped into the marketing lexicon about 10 years ago as smartphones were just starting to outsell the ‘dumb’ ones and the number of Facebook users breached the 0.5bn mark. SOLOMO stands for SOcial, LOcal and MObile and it’s essentially about leveraging the mobile phone as the link between where our eyeballs are increasingly dwelling (on social media) and where our feet our standing (the local) to deliver more relevant advertising. Initially, the “check-in” was king, as pioneered by the likes of Foursquare. Early adopters would proactively declare where they were, largely for the social kudos but also to unlock discounts offered by businesses as a reward for visits and reviews. Later, beacon technology started to emerge, offering opportunities to send push-notifications to opted-in customers in the vicinity of a store or restaurant. But search is where this enhanced location-relevancy really took off. Being able to tell a stressed out parent that an elusive ‘must have’ toy is in stock in your store half-a-mile away was Christmas gold dust.Now it would seem bizarre if Uber didn’t know exactly where we were the minute we thought about hailing a ride. We have to put some serious effort in if we want any one of the 50+ apps on our phone to NOT passively track our location. Where we are, where we’ve been - extremely useful additions to the ocean of information about us that brands can mine for insights on how better to interact with us as individuals. Welcome to the world of Surveillance Capitalism (as Shoshana Zuboff calls this era in her recent book). Which brings us to SOLOMOME. The suffix that SOLOMO has freshly sprouted, the ME, refers to Personalisation. It came to our attention when it featured in a press release by JD.com announcing their new store concept 7Fun which opened in January 2020 in the architecturally futuristic Galaxy Soho complex in the Chaoyangmen area of Beijing. JD.com claims this new 10,000 sq. ft store is delivering SOLOMOME in the physical world.Some background on JD.com. It is an e-Comm behemoth in China with over 300 million active customer accounts and is known for developing innovative delivery solutions such as drones. In 2018, following hot on the heels of Alibaba’s Hema, JD.com launched a chain of upmarket, high-tech supermarkets called 7Fresh which also offer ‘immediate’ (within 30 minutes) free fresh food delivery to customers living within 3km of the store. With delivery being so cheap and convenient, why would anyone go to a grocery store at all? 7Fun is the latest iteration of 7Fresh that attempts to answer that question. Billed as a drinking, dining & social venue from sunrise to late night, the store has 12 different on-site ‘eateries’ and 3 bars and plays host to live music and other social events alongside the usual supermarket offer.But what of this SOLOMOME, and how do they do it? Being at the vanguard of the so-called ‘New Retail’ or ‘Boundaryless Retail’ movement means JD.com are better positioned than most to provide this elusive customer experience, both because of the amount of relevant data they can collect & process to drive the personalisation, and the mechanisms they have for delivering it. Before a new store even opens JD.com already has a rich digital relationship with consumers in the area, through their website, app & digital wallet. Perhaps higher-than-average online purchases of premium foreign spirit brands in the vicinity convinced them that 7Fun should offer more than 300 types of saki and 1,000 craft beers (over the course of a year), and it would certainly help them identify who to target with information about new introductions to the range (& when).Because 7Fun customers have to download the 7Fresh app and register, scan their own items on their mobile phone and checkout online, JD.com can punctuate the shopping journey with personalised messages in a way that is just not possible in a more conventional store. Prices and deals can be completely unique to the individual. Data on purchase history and replacement cycles mean they can give customers a nudge when they are running out of washing up liquid and offer a discount on a new brand. No doubt JD.com have also deployed facial recognition technology, which can track who customers are, where they are in the store and even how they are feeling. Store assistants can use this information to provide more tailored customer interactions, as can strategically placed digital screens.So, should you care (more) about SOLOMOME? There is a potential tightrope walk between being ‘relevant’ and plain creepy, but where personalisation helps simplify or enhance our lives it seems the appetite is there. A recent coupon at till, linked to my loyalty card, offering me a discount for the in-store cafe (when the nearest branch of said retailer which actually has a cafe is 30 minutes away) feels like an example that could have been done better. For retailers, being more ‘SOLOMOME’ can also create a virtuous circle of data feedback. And the more that an in-store customer creates a digital footprint, the more you can understand about the relationship between bricks & mortar investments and online performance.Alison Moriarty, GEOLYTIXTitle Image: Photo by Clu Soh on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "The Workplace Revolution",
      "date": "Tue Nov 26 2019 10:40:19 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/the-workplace-revolution/",
      "excerpt": "The workplace revolution has prompted a change in the office landscape. Co-working spaces have fast become the popular solution.",
      "content": "It’s 9am on Monday morning and I have already had calls with colleagues in China, Australia and Germany. The advancements of technology making work on the go possible which is incredibly important when negotiating different time zones and the great British commute. I’m taking these calls on the train from Sheffield to Leeds while heading into our office. As Geolytix has grown we have expanded where people are based not only across the UK but across the world; our team is now in London, Leeds, Shanghai, Melbourne, Johannesburg, Dortmund, Tokyo and Warsaw. Having people in 7 countries means not only is technology important to run the work day but also the ability to set up offices with minimal management while being able to scale this as the team grows.Co-working offices allow flexible workspace options which has helped them become a prominent role in how and where we work. It is a great solution for both large and small companies as well as individuals, Geolytix has certainly found this. They offer various commitment options with their pricing structure meaning users can still benefit from the flexibility of spending days working from home and attending meetings.Large global chains including ImpactHub and WeWork have hundreds of offices across major global cities and have contributed to the ~35,000 flexible working spaces in the world today. The latter of which is the company we use for our offices in Shanghai and Melbourne. WeWork was founded in 2010 and now has 849 opening and coming soon location in 123 cities.Georgina & Samantha in our Melbourne WeWorkAs Chris Stokel-Walker points out some users would prefer to avoid the larger providers like WeWork and opt for the more independent options which can often end up cheaper while supporting local enterprise. WeWork is currently in the middle of its own controversy with them planning to reduce their staff by 13%, after rapid growth in the last few years new openings have stopped in their 2 largest markets; New York and London.Ceci Amador, Senior Associate Editor of Allwork.Space wrote an interesting article with lots of statistics about this sector, including that global market value of flexible workspaces is estimated at an approximate $26 billion. In London alone flexible workspaces are expected to reach 3.0 million square feet by 2020. The large number of flexible workspace locations is also due to a high number of smaller co-working companies setting up in each city. Avenue HQ has offices in Liverpool and Leeds and is where you will find the Geolytix Leeds office, previously we were based in the ODI Leeds office until we expanded and moved to the other side of the city. It is perfect for us as we don’t have the responsibility of the day to day running of an office and can spend our time and resources on client work while saving money and having everything we need including various sized meeting rooms, break out areas and a kitchen along with the bonus of a roof terrace for when the British sunshine rears its head.Avenue HQ in LeedsIn Sheffield before I had my fellow Northern colleagues to keep me company I worked at Union St to break up working from home, this was a great experience and allowed me to enjoy the office buzz, network with others from various companies and increased my productivity and creativity.These spaces are not only beneficial for the work aspect but also have different events on offer which allows workers to enjoy activities, develop new skills and break up their work days.Although I have never tried it there are also options for paying by the minute rather than the day for the ultimate flexibility, Ziferblat has 3 locations in Manchester, you pay 8p per minute (capped at 4 hours) and help yourself to tea, coffee, cake, printing, wifi and no commitment; just turn up and start working. So there really are options for everyone.The Office for National Statistics reported that unemployment rates have generally been falling for the last 6 years.This is partly due to the huge boom in self-employment including freelance workers and in turn has called for a workplace revolution which has prompted growth in co-working spaces opening up to both support these individuals and also businesses of varying sizes offering perfect solutions for flexibility and seamless scalability with a companies growth.Louise Cross, GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "Add search to your Ghost blog",
      "date": "Thu Nov 21 2019 17:13:40 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/add-search-to-your-ghost-blog/",
      "excerpt": "A couple of weeks ago, roughly around the time when the Prime Minister of the UK promised to do the very same to himself, we finally ditched Wordpress.",
      "content": "Maintaining Wordpress has been a huge pain for us as an organisation and for me personally since I am not a big fan of php, Apache Tomcat, mySQL and monolith architectures in general. We were running our own Digital Ocean droplet having to renew the Let’s Encrypt certificate ever so often. Or as Kevin puts it, ‘Why I’m not the biggest Wordpress fan’.Moving to Ghost was a breath of fresh air. Using Javascript throughout made me feel immediately comfortable. Sure there were some teething problems but nothing which we weren’t able to overcome. With the no fuss Ghost(pro) option we were up and running in no time.blog.geolytix.netAt this stage I read that Kevin isn’t a fan of Ghost no more. All valid points in that article. Myself, I would like to add that the use of jQuery in the default casper theme is shocking. But I was most surprised to find out that there is sort of no default search on the Ghost platform.Though there are some open source solutions out there. I looked at ghost-finder, ghost-search, or ghostHunter. I wasn’t too much taken by any of these. Being fairly competent at writing Javascript I decided to roll my own search by using the Ghost Content API. — Why is this not integrated in Ghost by default? Then again jQuery; Really?Anyhow. Here is our search input on it’s own.We just added the input to the navigation bar in a local Ghost instance and upload this modified Casper theme to our hosted Ghost(pro).It’s also possible to add the input dynamically with a bit of script magic, but I’ll leave this to you as you might not want the input in the nav-right, or you may not even use the Casper theme.A custom integration key was needed to connect the Content API with our Ghost host. We are only interested in the Content API key.Did I mention that Content API must be imported into your hosted Ghost.Let’s put the styles (for the input and drop down) and the script import in the ghost header.The script as shown in the codepen goes into the Footer…And that’s that.As for the script itself. We load the title, url, and html content of our Ghost blog as data and pass this to the search function. The keyup event of the input form will split the search term by spaces and count matches in the html data. We sort the resulting array by combined occurrence count and display the top 5 results as the link title with with the URL as href in the results list.EZ.This wasn’t actually my first attempt. Prior to looking into the Ghost Content API I built a solution based on a Google Custom Search Engine (CSE). I got the idea from this Medium article.Here is a working codepen for the same blog using a Google CSE.I hope some of you may find this helpful.Happy blogging.Dennis"
    },{
      "title": "GEOLYTIX Supermarket Retail Points",
      "date": "Mon Nov 18 2019 10:07:56 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/geolytix-supermarket-retail-points/",
      "excerpt": "The collective market share of the ‘Big Four’ supermarkets (Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda and Morrisons) has fallen to 62.7%.",
      "content": "The four of them are struggling in regards to sales growth, not surprisingly in comparison to Ocado which has been named the fastest growing grocer. However, Sainsbury’s has shown a better performance than the other Big Four competitors, with four Sainsbury’s Locals opening across September and October in 2019. This included stores on Canterbury High Street, Bishopton Dargavel Village, Aylesbury Berryfields and Dundee Perth Road.Despite UK supermarkets seeing a decline in sales and profit margins, Iceland has plans to open 50 more stores within this financial year including stores in Harlow, Scunthorpe and Southampton. This follows the opening of 31 stores last year via their ‘The Food Warehouse’ fascia, a concept which was announced in 2014. They have already executed 4 openings of ‘The Food Warehouse’ this month (York, Glasgow, Paignton and Leigh).It has been just over a year since the first Jack’s store was opened and the growth has been slower than initially expected. Jack’s, the discount supermarket chain owned by Tesco, was set up to be a rival to Lidl and Aldi with an aim of 10-15 openings within the first six months. However, they have only opened 10 stores within its first year and have announced their first closure. The Jack’s store in Rawtenstall is set to close and be converted into a Tesco store this month following customer feedback.In contrast to the slow growth by Jack’s, the German discounters - Lidl and Aldi - are aiming high in terms of their expansion rate within the next few years. Lidl has an audacious plan to reach 1,000 stores by 2023, this would require them to open 230 new stores within the next 3 years which is an acceleration of their previous target of opening 50-60 stores a year. Similarly, Aldi is planning on opening one store every week on average over the next 2 years which would leave them just short of 1,000 stores by 2022. Aldi has opened an impressive 23 stores since our previous retail points update including stores in London, Cardiff, Wakefield, Dundee and Wrexham.Latest data can be downloaded hereRebecca Mellor, GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix Down Under",
      "date": "Wed Oct 30 2019 11:39:57 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2019-09-24-geolytix-down-under/",
      "excerpt": "Geolytix is officially open for business in Melbourne, Australia!",
      "content": "A picture from week 2…hang on, anyone spot the problem here?That sure isn’t the Melbourne skyline we know and love! Week 2 was actually spent in Shanghai, supporting the very first SLA event held in Asia Pac. A fantastic day…find out more in Coco’s blog.In my formative location planning years at Coles Myer in Melbourne I felt special as a location planner, partly because there were hardly any of us in the country! Moving to the UK there was the opportunity to learn from so many other location planners facing similar business problems to me, with lots of different ways of solving them. It’s that ability to bring location/network planners together for sharing and professional growth that’s so exciting about having the SLA in Asia Pac.Three continents in 3 weeks. It’s interesting how much retailing in both the same, but subtly different. As Luke mentioned in his presentation to the SLA, whilst many of the approaches to network planning are global, you have to understand the local context as well.Coffee drinking is flourishing on all 3 continents – Shanghai on a rapid growth trajectory, London and Melbourne absolutely entrenched! But whilst the large coffee chains (local and international) make a big impression in China with thousands of new outlets, there’s barely a chain to be seen outside the tourist hot spots in Melbourne. Melbournians actually love their coffee too much! The independent barista is what the local consumer demands here, but without a little local knowledge you could easily make the mistake of thinking this was an untapped opportunity for the big chains.This week we’ll be finding an office location for our Geolytix Australia HQ. Time to flex those site research muscles! Stay tuned…"
    },{
      "title": "India Retail Landscape… A decade on",
      "date": "Wed Oct 30 2019 11:34:55 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/india-retail-landscape-a-decade-on/",
      "excerpt": "How exciting to be back in India, and particularly Mumbai, after almost a decade away. ",
      "content": "I was smiling with nostalgia as a taxi whisked me down the Western Express Highway, past the incongruous Sahara Star Hotel which could have been modelled on the Imperial Senate from Star Wars, past the billboards advertising Bollywood’s latest blockbuster, dodging black and yellow auto-rickshaws and puddles left from the first monsoon rains.So much was still the same, and yet so much has moved on. Uber & Ola are now how middle class Mumbaikars get around, if they’re not jumping on the elevated Metro or staying home and getting iced coffees delivered by Swiggy.But it was the change in the shopping mall scene that I was really here to see. Sad to note that some of the 1st gen’ers didn’t make it. Dreams Mall Bhandup, Nirmal Lifestyle Mulund, I’m looking at you. The grand opening of a Big Bazaar (the original Indian hypermarket pioneers) used to see thousands of people jostling in rope lines but it takes a little more to keep a Mumbai mall alive nowadays.Several developments which were barely concrete shells when I last visited (poring over site plans, wearing fetching hard hats) are now beautifully polished, million square foot mega malls. With their snow worlds, indoor roller coasters, futuristic gaming hubs, and strong mix of restaurants, these felt like much more interesting places to be.Some British(ish) brands have expanded their footprints significantly. A particular standout is The Body Shop, who now have over 175 stores in India. Marks and Spencer’s have successfully launched a smaller lingerie format. SuperDry have introduced their Sports format stores. Hamley’s (now Indian owned) are in all the major malls. And it was great to see some refreshingly different Indian brands like Chumbak, Being Human, Rare Rabbit and Kama Ayurveda popping up too.So if you find yourself in Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore or any other big Indian city, you’ll be able to get your international-quality retail fix. And if you want to understand the full landscape of organised retail in India, down to the smaller local malls and high streets, GEOLYTIX have this MAPPed for all the major cities.Alison Moriarty, GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix is Small but Global",
      "date": "Mon Oct 28 2019 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2019-10-28-geolytix-is-small-but-global/",
      "excerpt": "I’ve been following Geolytix with interest since it was founded back in 2012. ",
      "content": "A couple of former Sainsbury’s colleagues, not enamoured with the idea of being sent to Coventry, helped to start up a network planning business. It was a risk, but it has certainly paid off!I joined the Geolytix adventure at the start of this year. Knowing the team and with location planning being such a small world I must have known what I was getting myself into, right?Well sort of, there have been a few surprises. What has struck me is how unaware I was of the impressive client list Geolytix has, and it’s global reach. Joys of non-disclosure agreements I suppose! From leading brands across toys, sports, fashion, beauty, quick service F&B, casual dining, property, and of course our roots, grocery we’re supporting scores of clients in markets near and far.I certainly didn’t expect to be working with modelled traffic data in South Korea, tourist data in Japan and defining retail places from Ahmedabad to Zagreb. That’s right, over the last few years Geolytix has delivered projects covering 42 countries in 5 continents. We are hoping to begin a South American project in the New Year, which just leaves Antarctica, I wonder if the British Antarctic Survey need their stores optimising within the Halley VI base.The 42 countries Geolytix has delivered projects for shaded in dark.We are advocates of open data. Our free to download retail points dataset is in use across businesses and academia alike. We also love to discover open datasets made available by other organisations. One of my favourites is the European Commission’s Global Human Settlement layer which provides “Urban Centres” across the globe and worldwide population data modelled down to a 250m grid… All fully open. We live in a world of censuses that vary in frequency, disaggregation level and quality. As many of our clients operate across the globe the consistency of the GHS dataset is a huge help. It provides a level playing field for making comparisons. We frequently incorporate the GHS when building truly exciting products and datasets to support our clients’ global decision making.In writing this blog we were discussing how much of the world we’ve seen, so decided to use these Urban Centres to check how we fared. There are over 3,500 urban centres defined, these are continuous built-up areas with a population of 50,000 or more. The competition across the 35-strong Geolytix team to be named the best travelled location planner was fierce. We are mainly a group of geo-nerds after all, even the modellers and developers. Bragging rights went to Ben and Alison who have visited over 200 global cities each!With a combined effort spanning 822 cities visited for work, we’ve covered most countries and continents but at just 23% we’ve got a lot more cities to explore. With new clients in different markets we are looking forward to doing just that.So if you want to chat India with Alison, China with Coco, Malaysia with Ben, Japan with Luke, or pop into our latest office in Melbourne just drop info@geolytix.com a line and there is sure to be someone keen to swap stories of their travels (and network planning too if you want).Lisa Taylor, Director of Product at GEOLYTIXTitle Image: Photo by Subhash Nusetti on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Paris Retail Landscape – First Impression",
      "date": "Mon Oct 14 2019 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2019-10-14-paris-retail-landscape-first-impression/",
      "excerpt": "I was always intrigued by the breath-taking history and the industry-leading fashion Paris presents to the world.",
      "content": "I’ve seen the glass pyramid of the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower on the left bank and Notre Dame by the river Seine on TV and in books. This September, I had the opportunity to visit Paris myself for the first time. During my short week, I was looking at Paris from a completely different angle. I visited shops and commercial districts across Paris. Like every other big city, the make-up of brands is not so different. One can find the big international brands from luxurious Louis Vuitton, Prada to the more affordable Zara, H&M.While popping into the big flagship stores along the Champs-Élysées, one feature of these stores captures my attention. I’ve noticed many DIY/experience sections within these stores: in the adidas store, there is a creator hub and indoor testing area;A personalised tailor and print hub in the Levi’s store; in Asics, treadmills were provided for testing their products. Retailers are trying to retain and attract customers to the physical stores by offering varied and interesting activities. This is a transformational step to the bricks & mortar. Although I am not able to see how effective it is due to the time of my visit and lack of data, I can appreciate the intention behind these attempts. I am hoping there will be more elements added not only to flagship stores but also to high street doors in the future. Who knows, we might all be going to a high street H&M for a cup of tea in few years’ time! GEOLYTIX France Retail Places are available, watch this space…Wensi Kirkham, Data Scientist at GEOLYTIXTitle Image: Photo by Anthony DELANOIX on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "My Theory on How the Pie Chart was Invented? And what that tells us about innovation.",
      "date": "Mon Oct 07 2019 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2019-10-07-my-theory-on-how-the-pie-chart-was-invented-and-what-that-tells-us-about-innovation/",
      "excerpt": "The pie chart was invented by a Bastille-storming, money-forging, dueller-libelling, spying, blundering, libertine and jailbird. But no one has figured out how and why.",
      "content": "William Playfair had quite the life and came from quite the family. He was one of four brothers; John helped create the discipline of Geology with Hutton, wrote the definitive biography of Euler, and cofounded the Royal Society of Edinburgh; James was a fine architect whose son William designed much of Edinburgh’s New Town and the National Gallery. The fourth brother didn’t do much of anything and he is my many greats grandfather*So back to the pie chart. It is hard to imagine things we so take for granted, were indeed invented. William was an astonishing, pioneering, creative man; as well as the pie chart, he single-handedly came up with 90% of what is used today in statistical graphics. He published the first examples of the top five excel chart options; the line, bar, column, area, and pie chart. All “Oor Wullie”.So how did he come up with them? What prompted this astonishing burst of creativity in the late 1700’s? William’s relentless pursuit of new ways to show dull old data are well documented. Line and bar charts both have antecedents, and their origins are well documented. But the pie chart? It came out of nowhere and has long baffled historians of statistical graphics. There are no clear proto-pie charts. Euler had created his diagrams, but the idea of a circle representing a value and carving it up into slices was entirely novel. This week I found myself in the British Library holding, inspecting, touching a first edition of William’s Statistical Breviary. This small book contains the fold out data visualisation within which we find the first pie-chart. I took the scan below. I now think I know how and why and how he came up with the pie-chart.One thing you don’t get from the scan, the chart is tiny. The book is no more than a notebook, you could fit it into a large coat pocket. The pie chart is no bigger than the top joint of my pinkie, my photograph of the British Library example is below.In this multi-variate graphic William has re-used his idea of the proportional symbol; circles are scaled to land area. The proportional symbol devise was yet another of William’s inventions debuted in the Breviary. His work directly inspired Minard to create his famous thematic maps. Incidentally elsewhere in the Breviary he also invents the Venn diagram 80 years before John Venn re-invents them!Now William has another stroke of genius. He decides to shade the symbol by whether the nation is a maritime or a land power. Britain’s bubble is shaded red and France’s green. But he hits a problem, some empires are both maritime and land powers. What to do? In the first and largest bubble, Russia, he chooses to show the symbol as two concentric bubbles. Europe’s red maritime bubble sits inside the larger green Asiatic bubble. He then needs to figure out how to handle the Turkish empire. He has two critical problems here. To follow his convention of splitting his bubbles by continent he would need three concentric bubbles (Asia, Europe, and Africa). And critically he has run out of paper real estate. The graphic is tiny remember.He can’t use the devise he used for Russia. It’s impossible to create three bubbles and fit his beautifully placed labels into that half inch he has for the Turkish empire. Africa would be too thin, and the none of his labels would fit within the arc of each bubble. I can almost feel him looking at the data and scratching his head. I speculate he plays around freehand on paper, bubbles in bubbles, maybe use squares, or use call out labels, or have separate bubbles, or sacrifice his labelling convention. Then… bam. If I carve up my cake radially instead of concentrically…. His two problems are solved. He has enough room to place his labels, cover three or more categories, and still show relative sizes. The pie-chart is born. As to why Africa is yellow, well it’s neither a land or maritime power. He has red and green watercolour kicking around, so sod it he thinks, I’ll just mix the green and red paint.What can we modern data scientists and data-visualisation professionals learn from this? This innovation arose from a very practical problem William had to solve. It was not brain-stormed, did not arise from user feedback, and came from the imagination of one man. The lack of display real estate is an all too familiar problem those of us designing for the mobile phone face; and labelling is a notorious minefield for graphics and maps. Faced with these two-age old problems, and under a print-run deadline, he invents. And that is how innovation happens in the real world.*I cannot claim definitive proof of this. It is family folklore involving illegitimacy, a kitchen maid and a husband a long way away in India."
    },{
      "title": "The Added Value of Banking Data",
      "date": "Mon Sep 30 2019 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2019-09-30-the-added-value-of-banking-data/",
      "excerpt": "Across the numerous sectors and markets we support and operate in there is one common theme that keeps arising… and don’t worry it’s not Brexit.",
      "content": "Banking data is the hot topic on everyone’s lips and one I’ve personally been asked about on numerous occasions over the last few weeks and months.So why is banking data the latest point of discussion? After all it is not a new phenomenon and has been around in one guise or another for the last few years with some banks, operators and markets having more accessible data than others. No doubt the increased general awareness of new datasets and technologies has helped, spread through the conversations we all have across the spatial/location planning world we operate in; the desire to unlock additional insights and gain an edge through new data and analysis has always been there.The availability and development of new banking data has also been a major factor. Here in the UK the presence of banking data has grown over the last 12 months driven by our partners in the Barclays Market and Customer Insights team. Barclays now provide an analysis service powered by over 250 million monthly credit and debit card transactions. This service is quickly starting to transform the retail data industry by enabling retailers to access aggregated consumer, spatial and store level data (by channel) on their own brand as well as their position in the market they compete within as a whole.For us, working in an industry where data is key, being able to use actual known transaction data (within the privacy rules below) has expanded the level of insights we can provide. Naturally some industries and retailers benefit more than others, those retailers with no customer loyalty schemes are the obvious winners, however even retailers and industries who are rich in data have still been able to benefit from the increased knowledge banking data can provide. The benefits of having a more rounded understanding of consumer profiles and their shopping habits, through to sector wide information particularly on market size and share is clear to see. Time series market size based on a sample of around a fifth of the market, segmented by consumer age, affluence and geography, yes please!Like any dataset banking data needs to be representative and the impact of any skews assessed and taken into consideration before working with the data. With the current volume of transactions, and the general migration to card spending, the sample size with banking data shouldn’t be too much of a problem nationally, unless you are a very cash heavy business of course. Geographically there are some challenges to be aware of, like most retailers banks too often have regional variations in market share, so understanding the impact this spatial distribution could have on the data has been an important element for us.As we all know, no one data source provides all the answers, but we’ve found embedding known transaction-based data into our models and analysis has expanded the level of insights we can provide. It has also crucially enabled us to both validate and challenge the way we think and operate in certain sectors.We look forward to continuing to explore and understand the added value banking data can provide.The banking data provided by Barclays is reported in line with Barclays privacy criteria:50+ customers in any aggregated data5+ clients in an aggregated competitor setNo one company in a competitor set can have more than 50% market shareTitle Image: Photo by rupixen on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "The Politics of Palm Oil",
      "date": "Thu Sep 19 2019 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2019-09-19-the-politics-of-palm-oil/",
      "excerpt": "Having just landed back, I intended to write a blog about Malaysian retail from my recent trip. But some things are more important.",
      "content": "This is from a friend, describing the impact from the Indonesian forest fires:“To our friends around the world, this is the situation in SE Asia at the moment. Our children are at home as schools close, we must walk around with masks on to offer some level of protection from the extreme levels of air pollution, and people are dying in Indonesia.Whilst it’s easy to blame the Indonesian, Malaysian and Singaporean governments who turn a blind eye to the annual illegal burning, it is the global demand that drives the market for palm oil.Please help us in changing the demand, so that the supply is no longer needed.Choose products without palm oil.”"
    },{
      "title": "Unveiling SLA China (Society for Location Analysis, China)",
      "date": "Thu Sep 12 2019 11:25:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2019-09-12-unveiling-sla-china-society-for-location-analysis-china/",
      "excerpt": "Twenty-four previous, current, future location planners from around the globe gathered on Wednesday 11th Sept 2019 in Xin Tian Di, Shanghai, and unveiled our own new communities – Society for Location Analysis, China.",
      "content": "Location Analysis is probably a cool but niche sector among the professional world. “There aren’t so many of us on the planet, not like accountants, lawyers, architectures, etc.” Some of us might have known each other for over 15 years, but later we are dispersed to different industries, different roles, and hadn’t met ever since then… Today, we are together!The majority of us are still doing things deeply related with location analysis. As like every industry today, we face various challenges and opportunities in our daily work, not just the disruption as well as excitement brought by technology, but also issues such as limited budget and expectation to be managed with our internal and external clients and concerns about the future of our profession.Apart from knowledge and experience sharing by guest speakers, we also had hot discussions and debates. I felt the discussions could continue for two days or more…It was such a wonderful afternoon. Since this is a working day, there are some old friends who couldn’t join the sessions but are eager to see the presentation and photos. For further interest to know more, SLA members could refer to the slides to be shared next week on SLA website.Look forward to our next gathering soon!"
    },{
      "title": "Blackwell’s and the book buying experience",
      "date": "Mon Sep 09 2019 11:29:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2019-09-09-blackwells-and-the-book-buying-experience/",
      "excerpt": "A well-stocked bookshop, with the scent of new paper and an adventure on every shelf, has been a staple of the British high street for hundreds of years.",
      "content": "The average shopper in 2019 buys 9 physical books a year, and 34% would categorise themselves as a “heavy reader”. Why is it then that independent bookshops have seen a dramatic fall in numbers, from nearly two thousand in 1995 down to less than a thousand in 2016? Conversely, retailers like Blackwell’s have enjoyed a recent boom, their choice to expand outside of university campuses into shopping centres and larger commercial areas contributing to their 17% increase in sales in 2018. So, what is it that stores like Blackwell’s are doing differently that has kept readers new and old coming through their doors?Growing up in a home with a bookshelf on every wall, a tradition I’ve brought with me into my adult life, the pilgrimage to the local bookshop has always been an exciting affair. For me this was often to Blackwell’s 140-year-old flagship on Broad Street, Oxford. This four-storey establishment features a Caffè Nero, a dedicated Rare Books department, and the Norrington Room: currently holding the Guinness World Record for the largest display of books for sale in one space. They often host events: alongside the usual fare of signings, seminars and book launches, a local theatre company performs Shakespeare and Marlowe in the round among the stacks. These occasions help build a visit into more than a mere commercial exchange; it becomes an experience in its own right, something that no amount of online deliveries or e-book downloads can replicate.Blackwell’s currently sits at 37 stores, over 30 of which are confined to University campuses, including their recent openings in Manchester (20th Feb) and Belfast (8th Apr). They have however been experimenting with a different format, moving away from an academic focus towards pure trade. An example of this is the Westgate Shopping Centre store in Oxford, which opened in 2017, coinciding with a 20% increase in general (compared to academic) book sales less than a year later.Blackwell’s are also an Ordnance Survey Partner, producing high quality maps for use in planning permission applications, amongst other things. They’ve tied this in interestingly with their historical map archive, giving them a unique insight into the past, present and future of geographical datasets.In general, it seems like hosting events and having other forms of income are crucial to the continued survival of brick and mortar bookshops like Blackwell’s, supplements which many independent bookshops may not have the flexibility to emulate. Whatever the future holds, I’m going to keep buying books in person, hoping one day to fill up every shelf. With every book will come a story, not just within their pages, but of how I found them, chose them, and took them home."
    },{
      "title": "Coming Out as a Part Timer",
      "date": "Mon Aug 19 2019 11:34:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2019-08-19-coming-out-as-a-part-timer/",
      "excerpt": "Part time working doesn’t work for professional occupations, right?",
      "content": "Part time working is only for students, mums with young children, and pensioners, right?Part time workers aren’t as committed as full time workers, right?You can’t have a career if you work part time, right?Part time working has benefits for the individual, but their employer doesn’t benefit, right?Well, wrong on all counts actually! And here’s a personal example of why…In 2015, I took a career break to spend time doing voluntary work. I wanted to give something back to my local community, take on a completely new challenge, and learn some new skills. I spent a fantastic year volunteering, mainly with a great local charity in Hertford called Mudlarks.Mudlarks supports adults and young people with learning disabilities and mental health issues, providing gardening therapy in their community garden and allotment. It was a great experience and it really exceeded my expectations in terms of what I got out of it.When the time came to think about returning to work, I wanted to find a way to be able to combine this with my voluntary work at Mudlarks. The answer…part time working.At Geolytix I found an organisation that not only shares my passion for Location Planning, but also where flexible working is an integral part of the culture. So now you’ll find me working on Network Strategy projects for some of the world’s leading brands from Monday to Thursday, and then on a Friday, I’ll be outdoors come rain, snow or blazing sunshine volunteering with the team at Mudlarks!Am I any less committed than when I worked full time? Absolutely not! If anything, I’m more committed because I genuinely value being able to carry on my career and also do my voluntary work, and that same level of commitment is evident in everyone at Geolytix.With flexible working being a part of the Geolytix DNA, part time working is just one of the many ways that my colleagues and I are able to deliver great results for our customers and growth for the company, in a way that also works for our commitments outside work.Does Geolytix get any benefit from flexible working? Blair (CEO) certainly believes so…”Flexible, including part-time working, totally works for us. Over half our leadership team work part time. A business is a collective, a group of people pooling their talents to achieve shared aspirations. Having the very best people committing to that collective is what makes Geolytix work. Every colleague can choose how to split their precious time to create a lifestyle that works financially, professionally and emotionally”So from my perspective….Part time working does work for professional occupationsPart time working can be for everyonePart time workers are just as committed as full time workersYou can have a career if you work part timePart time working has benefits for the individual and for their employer…employers just need to wake up to the opportunities offered by flexible working and trust their employees!"
    },{
      "title": "Machine Learning with spatial Big Data: How Uber helped us get there.",
      "date": "Mon Aug 05 2019 11:35:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2019-08-05-machine-learning-with-spatial-big-data-how-uber-helped-us-get-there/",
      "excerpt": "Sometimes we look for answers outside our cosy little GIS bubble. In this case we applied well-established information retrieval techniques to truly understand hyperlocal movement patterns in mobility data.",
      "content": "There is a notable trend in multinational corporations encouraging their location planners to work more closely with their colleagues in different countries as well as those doing analytics in different departments.On our end this frequently results in two questions:Can you do something similar in country X?andCan you do something with AI, Machine Learning and Big Data?So far we could mostly answer these with a confident “yes” (as in mostly “yes”, not mostly confident, as in you only get confident yesses from us or no yesses at all). Artificial intelligence (AI), for one, can be a lot of things and one could claim that good old gravity models exhibit some characteristics consistent with analytical or cognitive intelligence. On the other hand, machine learning algorithms are not traditionally deployed in location planning. One reason for this is that they are more or less opaque. You might get some amazingly accurate predictions with minimal customisation, but do you as an analyst value accuracy and automation more than the ability to track how exactly a forecast came about? Imagine you have an open data source that could give you an indication of where retail is anywhere on the globe – and you might just be happy to sacrifice the latter!I am, of course, talking about OpenStreetMap (OSM), which to date contains more than five billion features and is steadily growing.Source: OpenStreetMap Wiki StatsWe frequently use OSM to complement other free and proprietary data sets in different countries, but typically face these three major challenges:Coverage: Data density varies across different geographical scales. You might find the amount of data available in a certain country to be very low, but at the same time there is that odd town within, where every tree is mapped along with its species.Semantics: Even though guidelines for how to tag geographical features exist, people can – and do – call things whatever they want for a variety of reasons: There are different notions of what constitutes e.g. a café in different parts of the world, tagging guidelines are community driven and may change over time, and you might even find poor tagging due to ignorance and vandalism.Size: OSM is big. That in itself is not a problem. But the free and open nature of the OSM project means publicly available servers are not meant to cope with large extract requests. In the scenario where you want to extract e.g. 100 retail-related tags for the whole of Europe in one go, you would have to set up the technical infrastructure yourself, along with some decent hardware.Machine learning, deep learning in particular, offers exciting opportunities to deal with the first two challenges. Rather than adjusting one’s methodology from country to country, region to region, city to city, you could choose to trust, for instance, a neural network to capture the local semantics, given you got some training data across the geography you are interested in. For example, a computer will not scratch its head around why there are so few pubs in Germany – it can be trained to identify the relevance of any tag to any local hub anywhere.But how do we deal with the sheer size of OSM and get it into shape for the computer to machine learn the hell out of it? – The answer: Call an Uber.Yes, that was not even first on my list of contrived puns. And yes, I am not referring to a Toyota Prius but one of the many functions that make up H3, the Hexagonal Hierarchical Spatial Index published as open source by the Uber dev team. The idea behind it is beautifully simple. At its core, H3 is nothing more than a global address system – think what3words, minus the fun. You get hexagonal grids at different resolutions and operators to map between these and geographical coordinates.Source: UberWhat makes the real difference though for our Big Data use case, is the ability to interrogate the grid topology and move up and down between resolutions. It allows us to discretise or “bin” OSM features spatially without sacrificing the knowledge of where they are (and where they are in relation to other bins).This is what the result of the binning process looks like for a hex cell at resolution 11 on the recently redeveloped Eltham High Street (we got a Nando’s!!!):© OpenStreetMap contributors, Basemap by openstreetmap.orgWhere “distinct tags” refers to the number of features with that tag intersecting the hex cell and “complete tags” refers to the sum of all inverse cell counts per feature with that tag, which is only relevant for polygon features.Without going into too much technical detail, it is fair to say achieving the above for the entire OSM data set using actual hex geometries (or of any other shape for that matter) rather than the static (therefore fast) H3 lookups would be a real headscratcher. Conveniently, there are already converters and up-to-date extracts for OSM data into formats suitable for parallel computing. So we could deploy an Apache Spark Scala script utilizing the H3 Java binding on a reasonably sized Google Cloud Dataproc cluster and managed to process the whole lot in less than a day. A PostgreSQL binding for H3 exists and in certain circumstances you might decide a database is the way to go. In this instance, we deemed it more economical to pay for a fast run on throw-away machines and not having to care about hardware and setup.Now, with the above table and some tagged hex cells we can finally start training our machine learning models. While this in itself is a topic for another ten blog posts, I would like to highlight how H3 gives us a great deal of flexibility training these models. In H3 every hex cell “knows” its neighbours and parents, i.e. the bigger hex cells it is contained by. Without going back to the raw data, that is original geometries, we can test model performance on different neighbourhoods and resolutions. We can ask e.g. how significant the occurrence of amenity=bench is to predict retail within the same hex cell or within a distance of 1, 2, 3, 4, … hex cells, or within the same hex cell if that hex cell is 30, 70, 170, … metres across, or both. And we can do that quickly, using simple joins or lookups in a variety of coding environments. The following is a simple example of finding and visualising neighbours and parents using – for the sake of this post – the H3 PostgreSQL binding:CREATE TABLE example_neighbours AS (\n WITH neighbours AS (\n SELECT k, h3_to_geo_boundary_geometry(h3_k_ring('8b194ad2d5b3fff', k)) AS geom\n FROM generate_series(1, 4) AS t(k)\n )\n SELECT k, ST_Union(geom) AS geom\n FROM neighbours\n GROUP BY k\n);\n\n© OpenStreetMapcontributors, Basemap by CARTOCREATE TABLE example_parents AS (\n SELECT\n res,\n h3_to_parent('8b194ad2d5b3fff', res) AS parent_code,\n h3_to_geo_boundary_geometry(h3_to_parent('8b194ad2d5b3fff', res)) AS geom\n FROM generate_series(7, 10) AS t(res)\n);\n\n© OpenStreetMapcontributors, Basemap by CARTOWhile in this instance we utilized H3 functions for spatial binning, fast neighbourhood aggregation and resolution reduction, there is a whole lot of other potential applications and this is certainly not the last time you will hear us talking about it. Among the things that spring to my mind are geometry simplification of seamless polygon layers, prettifying polygons with mathematical morphology, building cellular automata like the Game of Life (if you are in that sort of thing) and efficient data transfer (e.g. client-server) through compacting. Compacting is one of these really simple but great ideas. All it does is, given a set of hex codes, to replace higher resolution hex codes with that of the parent as long as all children codes are present. Apart from its potential to greatly reduce the amount of space needed to represent any polygon geometry with a specified level of accuracy, it also makes pretty pictures and is the perfect way to finish this post. Here’s said Eltham High Street from Geolytix’s Retail Places dataset compacted down to submeter accuracy.© OpenStreetMapcontributors, Basemap by CARTO"
    },{
      "title": "How a fruit and veg supplier won my heart",
      "date": "Mon Jul 22 2019 11:48:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/how-a-fruit-and-veg-supplier-won-my-heart/",
      "excerpt": "I am a reluctant online shopper. I enjoy the actual shopping experience – choosing goods there and then and getting them immediately without expected delivery time.",
      "content": "Still a few months ago I started looking for a way to reduce time I’d spend on doing my groceries and beat pangs of conscience when binning all that non-recyclable foil.The foil spinach and salad leaves are packaged in is not recyclable. I don’t know where it ends up in reality but I imagine once it is tossed it just lies somewhere out there like all the trash in ‘Wall-E’.You may have seen ads from fruit and veg suppliers. Waiting on the tube platform I once saw an ad from Riverford clearly inspired by Trainspotting. Food organically grown and locally made is better. Seasonal local foods are better for human health and for the planet. It’s easier and cheaper to grown and transport them. Simple truths we hear all the time.I ordered my first box. Riverford assign clients to local farms and weekly delivery day will depend on location. They are happy to drop the box at the doorstep if nobody’s in. Delivery day in my area is Wednesday. The service is not instant, orders with any final changes must be placed 48 hours before delivery day. That requires certain self-discipline and planning in opposition to present day ‘stream on demand’ expectations.The following Wednesday the box arrived. The vegetables were excellent. Packed mostly in grey paper bags, small, imperfect and really tasty. There were a bag of potatoes, some onions, a few carrots, broccoli, little gem lettuce, some cherry tomatoes. Each box usually has a good mix of plump roots, shiny greens and something a bit more juicy.Over time not all were my favourites. Early spring is not great when it comes to seasonal treats. For a while I’d get a lot of spring greens. I’m not much into cabbage. Spring greens don’t even have any decent equivalent name in my first language and I’d describe them as some unknown cabbage-like objects, possibly inedible. Sorry, spring greens. I am happy to redistribute leeks as well.Riverford promise to never buy products transported with air freight. They want to fully power their farms with renewable energy and drop non-sustainable packaging. The box is requested back so that the supplier can reuse it many times. All that effort for one simple purpose – deliver food. Sounds like a business I am genuinely happy to support.How often do we hear about the future of food? How long can we expect avocados without being avocado-shamed? Can we fight climate change without changing how we get food? Where is the balance between transporting exotic foods and making the best use of whatever is available nearby? How can we change our habits in order to lower the harmful impact of our diet alone on environment? Services like those from Riverford can surely educate us on sane eating habits so that the rest of industry can catch up.And now the real reason how Riverford won my heart. Days after the first box arrived I got another email saying: Thank you for your payment. The following morning box number 2 landed on my doorstep. Apparently with one order I enabled a chain of regular deliveries. I never cancelled.Agata Brok, Developer at GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "Ways to do your grocery in Shanghai",
      "date": "Thu Jul 18 2019 11:45:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2019-07-18-ways-to-do-your-grocery-in-shanghai/",
      "excerpt": "I am a native of Shanghai.",
      "content": "Just like most working class in big cities of China, I never need to worry about where to buy groceries for the family, because this is usually a job of our parents. However, my story changed about 2 years ago, when my wife got pregnant. So, while my mother in law is taking good care of my wife and our baby girl, now it’s more often my duty to buy groceries for the family. Therefore, if you have a plan to stay in Shanghai, it’ll probably be helpful to know how I find it out with my years hands-on experience of buying groceries.Living in a well-established residential area of Shanghai, you can easily find an open market within 10 to 15 minutes of where you live, this is an easy and almost one-stop place to find the groceries you need — all kinds of vegetables, meat, non-staple food, seasonings, cooked food, breakfast, even potted plants, flowers, hardware, and religious stuff, you name it. Open market is also called a wet market, but the average level of its shopping environment has become much better in recent years, so you don’t need to worry about getting your shoes wet going there.Along the road to the open market, you can always find some street vendors selling groceries. They usually have better price image than those in an open market. Their business is smaller compared to those who own a farm, which means they only offer the range they are good at and only sell what grows in the season, this is a fascinating option for someone like me who value healthy food (or price sensitive). To be honest, I was ignoring street vendors at first, but throughout the time, I find them more stable and popular than those trading in the open market, and most of them have been doing business here for more than 5 years, which makes me feel very comfortable buying stuff from them.I have never bought any groceries from a convenience store, although there is a Family Mart on my way to the market. There are countless residents within 200 meters, as well as some schools and a subway station. So, it’s busy 24*7 and doesn’t really have to sell any vegetables. When Family Mart launched a cyber-bomb ice cream in Shanghai last year, there is always a long queue of delivery guys waiting at the door for the orders from online. What I want to say is that you will never get bored on your way to your groceries with convenience stores selling ice cream, or street shops selling bubble milk tea, barbecues, spicy crayfish, noodles or all kinds of snacks, it’s a trip full of temptation. So, for a while, my average grocery shopping time reached a staggering 45 minutes per trip. I was not only buying groceries, but also shopping, eating, and occasionally smoking some cigarettes before going back.In response to this situation, my wife began to buy food from the Internet. Hema was our only choice at that time, later we used Dingdong and most recently Meituan. To our surprise, the vegetables purchased from the mobile app are not only cheap, but also fresh, and is delivered to our door within 30 minutes of the order, such a VIP service. I once suspected that they would be short in weight or poor in quality, but after accumulating a large amount of measurement data with my high-precision baking scales, it was found that the actual weight of the delivered goods are generally 30 to 50 percent heavier than it’s said on the description page, and once there is quality issues, you only need to take a photo to get your refund. That is impressive and has saved me lots of time. Currently my favorite way to buy groceries in Shanghai.Now you might ask how about the hypermarket? To be honest, there is a Rt Mart just 10 minutes’ walk from my home, but I visited it no more than 4 times in the past two years. And I believe this is the case for most people in Shanghai, after all, despite the price and range, it will take at least 15 minutes only to find the groceries you need from a hypermarket, while you can spend that time on the App for home delivery at a reasonable price. This is a dark age of most hypermarkets in China, like Carrefour, but I guess it’s never too late to embrace the change.Doing your groceries in a premium market can be a good idea, if you are rich. Usually I use it as a convenience store for meals or snacks, but I also observed there are quite a few expats who’s doing their groceries off the work, I imagine their company has very good welfare package for them.To summarize, if you are in Shanghai, and you want to do your groceries as a regular working class — street vendor, open market and online App are probably your best choice, while in a new residential area without immediate grocery supplier, the online App will probably be your only and the best choice. And in case that you want to know more about Shanghai, you can always find me in our Shanghai Office to talk to, and of course not only about groceries.Hope you have a nice day.Sam Hong, GEOLYTIXTitle Image: Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Inferring Traffic Counts from Network Centrality",
      "date": "Fri Jul 12 2019 11:43:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2019-07-12-inferring-traffic-counts-from-network-centrality/",
      "excerpt": "We were recently asked by a client to incorporate an element of traffic and road utilisation into the modelling of their network blueprint as they investigate opportunities to locate drive-thrus.",
      "content": "The client operated in South Korea, so we had some data challenges ahead! In the UK we produce and update a road and traffic dataset that we can use for this kind of work, however we didn’t yet have anything for South Korea. So, the aim was to build a network with a modelled value for traffic count for every major road in the country of operation.For the baseline road network we started with a pull of the data available for South Korea from Open Street Map. We processed this to extract the Roads as a reputable network using an open source converter. In order to validate our modelled traffic values we needed some actual traffic counts. Luke in our Tokyo office managed to come across this exact dataset from Topis. With all of this we were ready to start modelling!In order to infer traffic flow between our known survey points we utilised the routability of the road network and exploited the power of graph theory calculations. Graph theory is the study of a network of related objects where vertices (points) are related to each other by edges (lines).Graphs are used in a diverse number of fields, particularly those incorporating complex systems such as social networks, linguistics, and chemistry. In our example the roads are a network of connected junctions. Knowing the distance in real space between these junctions gives the edges a weight, and if the road is one way or not gives the edges a direction.This gives us a weighted, directed network which we can start to do some pretty cool things with.Graph algorithms are used in several ways, for things like community detection (how do the vertices group together, do they cluster?), shortest path finding, or measuring connectedness. This connectedness measurements fall under the bracket of centrality algorithms. This was our golden ticket to inferring traffic counts on our network.The algorithm we used is called betweenness centrality, it is a measure of the importance of each node on the flow through the network. It effectively gives a score of influence to a node by assessing how many times it is used in a shortest path between two other nodes. In other practices it can be used in social sciences looking into who is the most important person in a management team to the flow of information. For us it gives a measure of how utilised a road is based on the huge number of different paths that can be made through the network.If a road is going to be used by more journeys, we can infer that there are probably going to be more cars on it.Because of the scale of the network (we had 1,180,746 roads in South Korea) we were going to need some horse power, so we started up a Google Cloud Dataproc machine to get Hadoop to do some of the heavy lifting. We wrote a script which would calculate the betweenness of the edges based on shortest paths within a certain depth of the vertices. In theory, betweenness is built from calculations of every possible shortest path, however in reality this is too much computation, and after a certain threshold you gain no more insight by calculating more routes.Once we’d assigned the surveyed traffic counts to their nearest roads, and applied relative urbanities to the network we used a delta difference approach to then smooth these traffic counts across the network.With some tweaking we were happy with our outputs and we then incorporated this into our network blueprint to identify opportunities for new drive-thrus.We learnt a lot from this project, this was a great case study for Hadoop and graph algorithms. We are excited the methodology allows us to build this data anywhere in the world, and we are actively experimenting with ways we can include insights from graph theory elsewhere in our projects."
    },{
      "title": "One More Jigsaw Piece to Fit into Suning’s Smart Retail Empire",
      "date": "Fri Jul 05 2019 11:38:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2019-07-05-one-more-jigsaw-piece-to-fit-into-sunings-smart-retail-empir/",
      "excerpt": "This time it is Carrefour China…",
      "content": "The recent announcement (23rd June 2019) that Carrefour China has agreed to sell 80% equity interest to Suning.com, in a cash deal of 4.8 billion RMB, was notable for TWO things.Firstly, it marked the retreat of one of the first foreign retailers to enter China. Carrefour has been trading in the country for nearly 25 years, and accumulated over 30 million members, with 210 hypermarkets, 24 convenient stores, and 6 distributions centers covering 51 cities (by March 2019) in mainland China.They’ve established a truly national coverage across China, from Urumqi to Shanghai, and Shenzhen to Harbin, all with relatively good population and affluence (Chart 1). Their early market entry allowed them to secure some strong locations in the high density urban areas, with a particularly strong network in cities like Shanghai (Chart 2).Chart 1: Carrefour China Store Coverage – Prefecture (City) LevelData Source: Carrefour China Website, Geolytix China 2016 City DataChart 2: Carrefour Shanghai Store Locations vs. Township Residential Population DensityData Source: Carrefour China Website, Geolytix China 2017 Township Data, Open Street MapHowever despite its early success in China, recent years have seen a constant shrinking of Carrefour business. Actually the traditional grocery market in China has become such a punishing battleground, that 6 out of the top 10 FMCG retailers seeing 2018 sales growth below the CPI growth rate of China this year (2.1%)! (Chart 3)Chart 3: 2018 Store Growth of Top 10 FMCG Retail ChainsData Source: China Chain Store & Franchise AssociationIn sharp contrast, among the top 20 FMCG Retail Chains in China, two pioneers of “New Retail/ Smart Retail”- Hema Fresh and Yonghui have both witnessed sharp growth – with physical expansion a key component. In particular, Hema Fresh store numbers have grown fourfold %, sales having increased by 300%, and its ranking surged from #51 in 2017 to #18 in 2018.Underpinned by investment from Alibaba and Tencent, the integration of technology into every aspect of their business, including the physical stores, has fundamentally changed the grocery landscape in China. Almost every grocery retailer in China is now trying various things to embrace the changing retail environment:. RT Mart, Walmart, Lianhua, ect. – all having forged links with the e-giants, in an attempt to maintain relevance.The second notable thing about the deal was the further confirmation of Suning’s transformation into a “Full-Categories” Smart Retail leader.Originally an appliance chain, Suning is now a leading omni-channel retailer trading a wide variety of categories, and ranking top of China’s Chain Business since 2015. Suning started building its “Smart Retail Empire” in 2017. Unlike Alibaba, who could rely on tremendous consumer/vendor data, logistic resources and experiences from online business to support its organic creation and growth of Hema Fresh, Suning chose to expand rapidly through acquisition.Over the past 3 years, Suning has invested/acquired over 30 projects/companies, with the total consideration estimated to be over a trillion RMB, and the industries spanning e-commerce, commercial properties, retail chains, logistics, and IT technology. Recent major transactions include:2018: 100% of Dia China– 300+ small discount stores in Shanghai, over 2.5 million members;2019: 37 Wanda department stores – mainly in tier 1/2 cities, over 4 million members;2019: 80% share of Carrefour China.By the end of 2017, Suning had 3,799 stores nationwide; a year later the number nearly tripled to be 11,064 (incl. convenience stores). According to its official website, the store opening program in 2019 is targeting 15,000!And behind all of this, are huge inputs into research and development on technology: big data, cloud algorithm, IoT, and AI, etc. By the end of 2018, Suning has employed c. 10,000 IT staff!Yet how will Suning tackle the integration of existing and future store network? How will they balance between consistency and diversification? How to avoid cannibalization? What creative solutions will Suning bring to the asset of Carrefour China’s physical space and member system?And which bricks and mortar business will become the next target for the e-giants to fight for?The whole retail universe will keep watching…"
    },{
      "title": "Lush and the war on plastic",
      "date": "Sat Jun 29 2019 11:44:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2019-07-29-lush-and-the-war-on-plastic/",
      "excerpt": "Until 12 months ago Lush wasn’t on my radar.",
      "content": "If I’d have been asked about the brand, my first thoughts would have been the pungent smell as you walk into the vicinity of a store and I would have wrongly assumed the key target market was teenage girls visiting town centres on a weekend, and mums on an emergency mission for last minute present buying.18 months ago my Facebook feed started filling up with photos of stricken animals caught up in plastic. Supermarkets banned plastic bags. A switch flicked on and the harm we were doing to the planet became front of mind. I became the ‘plastic police’, stopping buying water bottles and buying bar soap instead of handwash.I then asked my friend, who will gladly be described as a hippy, if I could buy a shampoo and conditioner bar that worked. I expected her to send me to an organic website. She recommended Lush.Since then, Lush has very much been on my radar. In December, on a trip to Manchester I visited the store on Market Street to find it bursting with customers. It’s sandwiched between The Body Shop and L’Occitane – both were empty, the difference being stark. Lush were doing something right. On my trips to Amsterdam and Dortmund it was the same story.Lush Manchester Market Street StoreLush have 446 group stores, operate the brand in 48 countries and were founded by Mark and Mo Constantine in Poole in 1995. They opened 18 new openings in the year to June 2018 and relocated 27 shops to bigger and better locations. Luke in our Tokyo office was very impressed when he visited their flagship in Shinjuku Station, at over 12,000 sq ft. Liverpool beats this with its largest ever store. Sales in the relocations have increased 34% resulting in average annual store sales across the group of £927,000. They aren’t afraid to tackle underperforming locations with 30 closures in the year. It’s not all about stores, online sales also grew 9% to £42m.In the UK they have 102 stores, the majority in prime pitch, and located in 18 of the top 20 and 42 of the top 50 town and city centres. The biggest town centres where they haven’t yet opened are in ‘urban clusters’ where it is relatively easy to travel to a better destination centre, for example Bradford, Wolverhampton and Oldham.Source: Geolytix Analysis and Geolytix Retail PlacesI wondered whether it was a happy coincidence that Lush were benefiting from the wave of consciousness sweeping the planet about packaging waste, or whether it was a key strategic action. I found mixed reviews on the ethical claims about the brand. An ethical blogger Holly Rose provides a balanced review and I was heartened to read about their strong stance on animal testing. In the last year they have opened Naked shops (Milan, Berlin, Manchester), only stocking plastic free products.Number 3 in their Master Plan is “Create a cosmetic revolution to save the planet (we are running out of time – we need a revolution”.It seemed that Lush were consciously helping the war on plastic and in return reaping the benefits. Group turnover increased 5% to £525m with an 8% increase in LFL in the UK. More than £15m was donated to charity (June 2017 to 2018). The FT’s 2012 headline “Lush awash with hippy profitability” says it all.What I didn’t expect to find was that Geolytix share a passion in addition to network optimisation.Lush are open source pioneers, with its online platform, epos system and apps all built on open source, in a deliberate plan by their CDO Jack Constantine to not only follow the #techforgood philosophy but benefit from “new freedoms to create bespoke products”. A philosophy that underpins our XYZ framework.Last week the government announced a £60 million fund to help businesses develop biodegradable packaging from food waste and plants. Ooho from Notpla has hit the headlines with its seaweed pouches of water given out at the London Marathon.In future decades shampoo bars and ‘safe packaging’ will no doubt be the norm, but until then Lush is leading the way in eradicating single use plastics and benefiting from the increase in awareness across the globe.Oh, and the shampoo and conditioner bars are spot on.Sarah Hitchcock, COO at GEOLYTIX"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix in Dubai",
      "date": "Tue Jun 11 2019 11:25:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2019-06-11-geolytix-in-dubai/",
      "excerpt": "It has the aquarium, the waterfall, the ice-rink and of course the towering Burj Khalifa as a neighbour.",
      "content": "The vast Dubai Mall is also home to anyone who is anyone in the world of retail. We ended up playing a game of trying to find who wasn’t present in the mall and didn’t do very well. Even brands who have a limited presence outside their home markets have established a foothold here; according to CBRE Dubai is second to only Hong Kong as the top target for international retailers with 59 international brands opening their first overseas store there in 2017.Geolytix are actively extending our reach into the GCC countries to support clients who are seeking opportunities to expand in this rapidly evolving region. For these retailers and brands, Dubai Mall will be an inevitable target as it exerts a dominance over the Dubai retail landscape matched in few other global cities. 28% of total retail spend for key categories flow through the mall according to our analysis."
    },{
      "title": "From Shopping to Dining, Entertaining & Social Networking",
      "date": "Wed Mar 20 2019 11:19:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2019-03-20-from-shopping-to-dining-entertaining-social-networking/",
      "excerpt": "The Role Transition of a Retail Venue in Chinese Daily Life",
      "content": "When I was a school girl back in 2000s, I always went shopping with my mum in some familiar department stores. Hunting for a pretty dress or a pair of cool trainers was the only reason for me to visit a 6-floor department store.Today when I’m thinking of meeting friends, hanging out, or simply killing time, the first thing to pop up in my mind is – which shopping mall to go to? Which one has got the nicest or most famous cafes, dessert chains, restaurants; which has the best cinema; and also very importantly, which has got the coolest or funkiest environment?Shopping? I beg your pardon? 80% of my shopping has moved online now – no matter apparel, skin care, cosmetics, fruit, vegetables, meat or fish… even a pet!Sometimes I still do shopping in a shopping mall, but most of the time, shopping happens in between the journeys for a coffee, meal, or movie.Sure, the change of my consuming behavior and my peers have been an important driver for the evolution of a shopping mall in China. You could also say, we (consumers and shopping malls) are adapting and fitting for each other in the changing times.Take Shanghai as an example. In a common scenario, the basement floor connects to the metro station, with simple, affordable F&B (Food & Beverage), and/or small supermarkets occupying the floor for quick pay and go. Moving up the levels, the 4th and 5th floors include a diverse range of restaurants, cinemas, art exhibitions and/ or book shops together with a cosy cafe. Between these floors are the retail brands which can be nice destination for between-meal-time activities. My peers and I often spend a half day within the mall, ending up buying loads of stuff such as too-cool-for-working T-shirts, earrings, or gifts for friends.It is no exaggeration to say, these experiential areas (F&B, cinemas, etc.) have become the real anchors to drive the customer flow in retail venues nowadays. In some cases, they could take up over 50% space of a shopping mall, for constantly bringing good numbers of visitors. One thing is for sure: a mall without good F&B will sooner or later become a disaster.As a result, it is also true to retailers: If you are facing multiple choices of shopping malls to locate, the ones with good F&B will always be a key attribute to tick off, and could be one of the “golden rules” in selecting a retail venue in China.One area of my exciting work in Geolytix is to explore the various retail venues data across the key cities in China and to evaluate the quality and strength for each of them. If you are looking for any insights or planning to expand in China, please call and see how we can help!从“买买买”到“约会打卡、逛吃逛吃”购物中心在中国的角色转换10年前，中学时代的我，常和妈妈一起光顾熟悉的百货公司：淘一件漂亮的连衣裙或是一双新潮运动鞋，是我那时造访那座6层楼百货商场的唯一理由。今天的我，无论和朋友约会、闲逛，或是消磨时间，首先想到的问题却是：去哪个购物中心好呢？ 哪家咖啡馆或甜品店最正？哪家餐厅最网红？ 哪家电影院性价比最高？ 以及非常重要的是，哪个购物中心的环境最酷炫、有趣、颜值高？至于购物？不好意思，我的购物清单80％已在网上搞定：从服装、护肤品、化妆品、水果蔬菜、肉类和鱼类……甚至宠物！有的时候我仍会在购物中心购物，但大多数情况下，这些购物经历都变成咖啡、就餐或电影途中的一部分。相信我和同龄人消费行为的变化早已成为中国购物中心演化的重要推力——或者反之亦然——您也可以说，消费者与购物中心两端，在今天这个不断变化的时代正在更积极地互动与适应。我所在的城市上海，大多数商场的负一或负二楼会接驳地铁站，与之相应的楼层设置是一些简餐或轻餐饮，又或是小型超市，方便人们快速消费与往来。往上走，4楼和5楼通常是选择更为丰富的各类餐厅、影院，甚至艺术展，以及附设舒适咖啡座的精品书店。夹在高低两端楼层之间的，通常是各大零售品牌——它们为餐后消化或等待电影开场提供了理想去处。正是这样，我和朋友常常会在购物中心度过大半天，然后“一不小心”就买了大堆东西，比如上班没法穿的T恤、小饰品，或是送给亲朋的礼物…可以毫不夸张地说，这些体验业态（如餐饮、电影院等）已成为今天商场客流的重要驱动力。一些商场的体验业态空间占比甚至已高达50%以上！它们的存在，无疑带来了购物中心想要的“人气”；令到消费者在商场逗留的时间变长，也增加他们购物的可能性。而这当中最为重要的当属餐饮：如果一家商场没有好的餐饮品牌，那么它迟早会混得很惨…好的餐饮是商场吸客利器——这个法则对于品牌零售商同样重要：如果您在进驻购物中心时面临多个选择，那么良好的餐饮配套是必选项——至少对于中国商场而言——这是一条黄金法则！探索和评估中国各大城市的零售商场是我的日常工作之一，能赚钱又有趣（哈哈）！如果您正在为品牌落户或网点规划做打算，那刚好是我的专长。期待不久的将来我们能帮到您！"
    },{
      "title": "Shanghai – A Flagship City",
      "date": "Mon Mar 11 2019 11:14:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2019-03-11-shanghai-a-flagship-city/",
      "excerpt": "From a fishing village in the 11th Century, to the world’s busiest port today, Shanghai has long been synonymous with international trade and commerce.",
      "content": "It is now cementing its position as the hottest retail city in Asia, becoming the go-to place for brands to develop flagship presence.In a time where “digital” is the growth engine of retail, and particularly in a place like Shanghai where technological leapfrogging has placed so much access to retail in the palms of people’s hands, the very idea of large physical Flagship stores may seem idiosyncratic. But Flagships have always been more than just a store – they are a statement of intent, a brand and marketing investment, and an opportunity to showcase innovation.In the last 18 months, a number of statement Flagships have opened. First up was Starbucks on West Nanjing Rd. with their Reserve Roastery – the largest Starbucks in the world by 2018. Featuring a 40-ton copper cask as its’ centrepiece, a 27-metre Coffee Bar and China’s first Teavana Bar, this is a Starbucks like no other, and has rapidly become a tourist destination as well as coffee shop.Nanjing Road has long been the location of choice for international brands to establish high profile presence. Costa opened their first store in China on East Nanjing Road over 12 years ago, and have since witnessed the influx of more and more flagship stores to the bustling street.Among them there are not only fashion apparel, but also inspirational and experiential brands such as LEGO . With a brilliantly tailored, Shanghai-inspired design and range, and innovative play-areas and personalisation features across 2 levels, this is a real statement store that, like Starbucks, has become a tourist attraction in its own right.Next to LEGO in the redeveloped Shimao Shopping Plaza is Nike Shanghai 001 – the first House of Innovation store format from Nike anywhere in the world. Across 4 levels, and comprising 3,800 sq m; this is again a store like no other. Features and experiences including NikeByYou (customised and personalised shoe creation) and Shanghai Shop (unique local product), ensure Shanghai 001 lives up to the hype.Opposite Nike, and opening within a matter of days of it, is the similarly impressive Adidas Flagship – a place that provides the full weight of the Adidas offer including Originals, Neo and Kids, and showcases innovation and personalisation.Last up in the Sports and Fashion sector is FILA, which has displayed remarkable growth in China in recent years. The recently opened FILA, again on Nanjing Lu, brings together the different sub-brand propositions and reflects a statement of intent from an increasingly confident brand.Whether you are looking for a Flagship presence in Shanghai, or are thinking of entering or expanding into any other city, Geolytix now have a comprehensive Retail Places dataset that maps and defines the extent, strength and type of all retail locations within all of the top cities in Asia. Get in touch for a chat if you’d like to find out more…上海——旗舰之都从11世纪的小渔村成长为世界上最繁忙的港口都会，上海一直以来都是国际贸易和商业的代名词。 近年来，上海作为亚洲最热门商业城市的地位不断巩固，成为品牌旗舰店落户大中华乃至亚太地区的首选地。在今天这个数字技术成为零售增长引擎的时代，人们动动手指就能在线浏览和选购各种商品；新零售迅猛发展的上海自然更不例外。在这样的环境下，发展大型实体旗舰店似乎显得有些“特别”；但实际上，旗舰店远非只是一个店铺那么简单 – 它们是品牌理念彰显的绝佳窗口，是品牌与营销的投资，同时也为产品创新、与消费者互动提供了舞台。在过去的一年半时间里，越来越多品牌旗舰店在上海绽放，首当其冲的是南京西路星巴克Reserve Roastery。这个当时全球最大的星巴克坐拥40吨铜罐、27米长的咖啡吧和中国第一家Teavana茶吧…问世以来，这个独一无二的星巴克很快便超越其咖啡店功能，成为全球游客争相排队光顾的热点。南京路历来深受国际大牌青睐。12年前，COSTA在南京东路步行街开设了它的第一家中国门店，并见证了这条街上与日俱增的国际品牌旗舰——这当中时尚大牌自然多不胜数；而一系列玩具体验店如乐高的出现，则让这个旗舰窗口更加丰富多元：跨越两层楼的乐高旗舰店将上海元素完美融入，充满创新与个性化的游戏体验区让人忘返流连。如同星巴克一样，乐高旗舰店很快成为众多游客的打卡圣地。 与乐高旗舰店比邻的是耐克上海001 ——这家耐克在其全球门店中可谓独树一帜：除了4层楼高、面积3,800平方米的庞大体量之外，其个性化的设计令人耳目一新；NikeByYou（定制专属款）与上海元素（独特的当地特色产品）更让慕名而来的粉丝不虚此行。在耐克001的对面，同样令人惊艳的是阿迪达斯旗舰店 ——运动表现、三叶草、运动休闲、童装店等等…阿迪达斯全系列产品在此百花齐放；充满创新与个性化的设计和美陈令购物与品牌体验充满愉悦享受。提到运动时尚，斐乐近年在中国的发展也格外令人瞩目。同样坐落于游客如织的南京东路，斐乐旗舰店汇集了旗下众多子品牌与产品系列，2018年5月随着所在商场的整改升级，品牌形象愈发活力彰显。开设旗舰店对于品牌零售商逐渐成为重中之重。Geolytix在全球积累多年的零售服务经验表明：无论您现阶段的拓展策略是聚焦上海这类桥头堡城市，还是多城市多网点齐头并进；系统的市场潜力评估、成本收益测算都将关乎成败。在中国，我们运用创新数据集与先进的空间数据模型，为不同行业的品牌客户绘制了拓展蓝图、并结合落地实际性进行网点规划。期待不久的未来，我们能为您的品牌拓展助一臂之力。"
    },{
      "title": "Chinese Retailers Entering the UK",
      "date": "Wed Nov 14 2018 10:59:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2018-11-14-chinese-retailers-entering-the-uk/",
      "excerpt": "It’s been just over a year since I left China to join Geolytix, back in the UK.",
      "content": "It’s been an exciting time, as we’ve opened multiple international offices in the last year, including in Shanghai. During this time, a few big-name British retailers have made news by pulling their physical stores out of China (see New Look for the most recent example). Many international brands have tried to crack the China market; some have seen great success whilst for others it has been more difficult. What is especially interesting though, is that we’re now seeing the early beginnings of Chinese retail brands entering Britain.Increasingly, Chinese brands are seeking to grow their international portfolios, beyond Asia and into Europe. I took a walk to see that the evidence of this is visible right here, right now, in London.Urban RevivoChinese fast fashion brand Urban Revivo opened their first store at Westfield London earlier this year, choosing the UK as its first step into European expansion. The flagship is over 22,000 square feet, and a major statement of intent. The store also serves another purpose, giving the brand a more international profile could give the brand more selling power back home.Urban Revivo at Westfield LondonThe world’s 4th largest smartphone manufacturer is expected to open the doors of its first UK store later this month. The brand officially launched, online, earlier this month, having already developed a global reputation for producing quality products at competitive prices. Demand for the launch was much higher than Xiaomi had reportedly anticipated, an encouraging sign (Even if the website launch had some marketing hiccups! https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-46183480).Xiaomi store under development at Westfield LondonHaidilao – 海底捞Haidilao is hotpot chain famous throughout China. The group has expanded their operations internationally, opening their first international restaurant in Singapore in 2012. With restaurants in USA, Canada, Australia, Singapore, Japan and South Korea, the first European location is set to open soon. The restaurant will be located at Piccadilly Circus, just around the corner from China Town.Haidilao Hot Pot restaurant under development at Piccadilly CircusFen Chiew (Xinghuacun) – 汾酒Fen Chiew is a type of Baijiu (literally white alcohol) which originated in Shanxi province and is personified by its dry, light taste. As of last month, Harrods are now stocking Xinghuacun Fenjiu Distillery’s famous signature Blue and White Porcelain bottle (displayed prominently between the Sake and Gin sections of Harrods’ basement wine and spirit range). The partnership was announced last month as part of a wider push by Chinese brands to promote baijiu to Western audiences. This push includes catering to consumers by promoting baijiu as an ideal cocktail base.Fen Chiew, now available in HarrodsWhat is so fascinating to me about the above examples is both how recent, and varied the types of retail are. From F&B to fast fashion and electronics. We’ll continue to watch if these brands expand further into the UK (and indeed globally), to see if their strong domestic performances can be built upon internationally."
    },{
      "title": "Open EU 2011 Census Data Pack",
      "date": "Tue Nov 13 2018 11:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2018-11-13-open-eu-2011-census-data-pack/",
      "excerpt": "Free is an odd word. Free has a duality; gratis “for free”, and libre “with few restrictions”.",
      "content": "When Martin Luther King said “Free… free at last… free at last” he wasn’t referring to the latest Sears buy-one-get-one-free offer.True open data is both gratis and liberating. But when governments publish open data, they sometimes make our lives as global data users hard. Data buried behind API’s, local language versions, woeful meta-data, unclear usage rights, inconsistencies, flat-out errors, the list goes on.Geolytix have done many pan-national analytical projects across dozens of countries that needed census data for the smallest areas possible. And the data had to be consistent, clean and comprehensive. Having spent many person-years sourcing, cleaning and standardising this data we have decided to share some of the outputs with you. Gratis and Libre.So here is a ‘2011 census pack’ for ten European Countries. All the variables have consistent naming, meta data, attribution and formats. The data relates to the smallest geographical units each country uses for demographic reporting and comes with cleaned boundaries. This data covers ten key Western Europe countries; UK, Germany, Italy, France, Belgium, Norway, Greece, Spain, Poland and Portugal. Some countries we would have loved to include but they have license restrictions that currently do not allow us to do so under a true libre license (we’re looking at you Ireland and Switzerland). We will be releasing similar packs for Eastern Europe shortly, and for many key Asian markets in the New Year.This data is created by citizens via completing censuses, short form surveys, and by maintaining administrative records. It belongs to us all. It should be used and exploited as widely as possible.The data is not perfect. There are many ‘value-added’ things we have used this data for. Harmonised pan-Europe variables, postal area aggregations, modelled affluence and life stage indices, edge-matched and simplified boundaries, spending power, retail expenditure, online penetrations. These are all things we have, and if you want to pay us you can use them too…. please get in touch.Enjoy using these data, we hope they save you time and you do great work with them. This can include incorporating them in commercial products and outputs you share widely, but please remember you have to attribute the original sources and Geolytix.Simply download the data. You are invited to leave a comment to let us know how you are using the data and which countries you’d like included in the next phase."
    },{
      "title": "4 Years of Retail Points",
      "date": "Tue Oct 23 2018 11:08:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2018-10-23-4-years-of-retail-points/",
      "excerpt": "It’s been 4 years since the first release of Retail Points (previously Open Supermarkets) and hasn’t it been an exciting time in the world of grocery.",
      "content": "The ‘big 4’ have slowed down openings and have had to enthuse the market in other ways such as new store formats and partnerships, which seem to be central to the future of retail while the discounters are growing their market share.There have been numerous trials of shop-in-shops in the hopes of driving footfall and extending visit times; Sainsburys and Argos (Sainsburys acquired Home Retail Group in 2016), Tesco with Sports Direct and Arcadia, Asda & Decathlon with some more successful than others. Unforeseen mergers have arisen; Tesco (Britain’s biggest retailer) completed its £4bn takeover of Booker (largest wholesaler in the country) in March 2018 and the Sainsburys and Asda mega merger is currently under investigation by the CMA.In September 2015 Morrisons sold its convenience stores, M Local, which opened in 2011 to Greybull in a deal fronted by Mike Greene and operating as the short lived My Local until July 2016 when the retailer went into administration.Waitrose & Partners, the ultimate middle-class signifier for a town has had its own problems, not just when being mocked for the student storecupboard essential list it released in September which contained harissa paste, organic cyder vinegar and bouillon powder. Lidl overtook Waitrose in market share of grocery sales earlier in the year, but in August of this year the brand did report a sales growth of 3.8% compared to the same week last year.Marks and Spencer have focused on their food which accounts for the largest proportion of sales and where there is opportunity for growth. The Simply Food branding which was launched in 2001 has been phased out and rebrand as M&S Foodhall in 2015. Although they continue to open stores in May 2018 they announced over 100 stores will be closed by 2022 in a radical plan to optimise the network.The discounters, Aldi & Lidl have gone from strength to strength, combined they now account for 13% of UK grocery market. In a Which? survey early this year customers voted Aldi their favourite supermarket, knocking Waitrose from the top spot it had held for 3 years.Amazon entered the grocery delivery world with Amazon Grocery, Amazon Pantry and Amazon Fresh, Morrisons while still using Ocado for their delivered got involved with this and Amazon deliver their products. Partnerships between food retailers and tech companies are being explored to improve and enhance the retailer experience, this seems to be a clear ambition of brands as a way of setting them apart from their competition – M&S & Microsoft, Carrefour & Google.Latest fascia to enter the marketGeolytix Retail Points is tracking a new fascia which was announced in February 2018 and launched to the market in September – Jacks; Tesco’s discount store to challenge Aldi & Lidl. Two stores were opened on 19th September and available to the public a day later; one in Chatteris and the other in Immingham – these were both units that Tesco had previously built and never opened. Jacks is a tribute to Tesco’s heritage; named after its founder Jack Cohen and leading the 100-year celebrations of the brand. This format is quintessentially British with 8 out of 10 items being ‘Grown, Reared or Made’ in the UK and a clear emphasis on locally sourced quality produce. The Jacks brand will also be Tesco’s new value brand. It is clear they are ready to take on Aldi & Lidl with their discounted prices and most obvious comparison the middle aisle of revolving non-food items – Jacks has WIGIG (When it’s Gone it’s Gone) but where Jacks differs to its main discounter rivals is in its focus on heritage. 15 Jacks stores are expected to be open within the year, 6 of which are already open within the 2 months since unveiling; Chatteris, Immingham (19th Sept), St Helens , Edge Hill (4th Oct) Middlewich and Rubery (18th Oct).Retail Points is continuing to track openings and closing of the major supermarkets in the UK. As always please email if you have any amendments to the data. Please continue to download and use the data set and it is greatly appreciated if you reference Geolytix when you do so."
    },{
      "title": "From Ahmedabad to Zibo",
      "date": "Fri May 18 2018 11:14:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2018-05-18-from-ahmedabad-to-zibo/",
      "excerpt": "It’s gone unbelievably quickly but we are now six months in to our Asia Pacific adventure with Geolytix offices now up and running in Tokyo and Shanghai.",
      "content": "What do they say about the best laid plans? We’d intended to lay foundations across a handful of cities, steadily building up key datasets but it appears our clients had other ideas. There’s so much going on in this vast region that we’ve found ourselves challenged to build our capability simultaneously pretty much everywhere. Through a lot of toil, late nights and air miles we’ve risen to this challenge and by the last count have delivered, or are currently working on, projects across 11 countries and approaching 50 cities.So if Asia features in your network expansion plans (and it probably should!) give us a call and we can discuss how we can help you."
    },{
      "title": "A mostly True Fairy Tale (any similarities to the 2004 Morrisons/Safeway merger are purely co-incidental)",
      "date": "Mon Apr 30 2018 11:15:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2018-04-30-a-mostly-true-fairy-tale-any-similarities-to-the-2004-morrisonssafeway-merger-are-purely-co-incidental/",
      "excerpt": "Long long ago, in a land not very far away, the King of GeoConsultingInc was not happy, not happy at all.",
      "content": "He, and his serfs, had just spent three long months toiling with the wizards of the Oeftee (a coven now long disbanded and swallowed by the Ceemay) on setting the rules for marriages between gnomes from different clans. I was one of those serfs, and I was even less happy. Us minions had already spent many evenings and weekends pouring over maps, tables, and charts. All to help decide which of four large gnome clans should be allowed to marry into a new fifth clan.The king was not happy because we needed to do that work all over again… in three days. The reason? Lots of our maps were wrong. Not hopelessly wrong, but enough wrong to be useless. To decide which gnomes could start dating, we needed to know their clans, which trees they lived under, and how long the journey between their trees was. But gnomes constantly switch clans, die, and give birth; plus, we were never entirely sure how gnomes travel. But the biggest problem was we had many of their trees in the wrong place! Not hopelessly wrong, but wrong enough to make the maps useless*.Seventy-two hours of hell later we were good. Us serfs weren’t happy, but the wizards were happy, and the king was happy the wizards were happy. The Oeftee were ready to tell the clans of gnomes who could marry whom.Fast forward 15 years. The two clans of ASDA and Sainsbury’s want to merge. All over the UK, and the wider grocery world; location planners, consultants, lawyers, government agencies and the press are scrambling to figure out what the CMA might recommend. Here at Geolytix we did a rough tally this morning, and our Directors have worked on roughly twenty-five of these submissions for our previous and current employers. For anyone about to embark on this we have one overwhelming and sincere piece of advice. Get your input data as near as perfect as is possible, before you do anything else.Geolytix publish a set of all the UK’s food retailer’s locations as open data. They are rooftop geo-coded by hand, have detailed fascia and sub-fascia data, and include an estimate of which CMA store class they are in. We know the data is used by many of the grocers, government agencies, web mapping giants, academics, other consultancies, and the public. The data is fully documented, including version control, and is available to download here https://www.geolytix.com/?retail_points You can also use the embedded mapping application to have a whizz round the South East to see if you can spot where the problems might be. This is truly open data, you don’t have to register or give us your email address, and you can use the data however you see fit. The one condition we do have is a recognition of the source of the data. If you publish any findings based on our data, or display maps with our data in it, you must attribute Geolytix, and preferably provide a link to the original source. Happy mapping and analysing.* Turns out someone (not me honest) had been manually creating points within a GIS over a reference raster TIFF that had been geo-registered with a malformed CRS string. This led to the use of an incorrect reference spheroid for the Raster, leading to a datum shift of between 20 and 60 meters in our store points. In turn, this had large non-linear impacts on our A* point-to-point drivetimes due to our mid-link and node joining tools."
    },{
      "title": "Official Chop! GEOLYTIX China opens its doors",
      "date": "Wed Apr 25 2018 11:17:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2018-04-25-official-chop-geolytix-china-opens-its-doors/",
      "excerpt": "GEOLYTIX announces its official registration in China; the country with largest population and second largest economy! We now have our chop…",
      "content": "Conveniently-located in the bustling business and retail hub in Shanghai, Geolytix China office serves our clients across the whole country, as well as markets in Asia Pacific region.Should you have any location related matters in China, or just for general retail industry and inspiration sharing with GEOLYTIX, you are always welcome to contact our local representatives: Coco and Lifan.Coco.Lin@geolytix.co.uk"
    },{
      "title": "Creamstastic: An explosion of ice cream parlours",
      "date": "Sat Dec 09 2017 11:32:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2017-12-09-creamstastic-an-explosion-of-ice-cream-parlours/",
      "excerpt": "Ice cream parlours make me think of a Sunday afternoon, currant tea cake, jersey ice cream and miniature train ride at Charlottes in West Yorkshire. Times have changed.",
      "content": "Creams is a gelato house that opened its doors in 2008 and, in their words ‘have grown from strength to strength, fought off hoards of copycats, miaow, and become a High Street favourite up and down the land’. Until they opened in Enfield this year, I have to admit I hadn’t heard of them; now I seem to keep bumping into them – the latest being a visit to our accountant in Tunbridge Wells and a trip to the Christmas markets in Manchester.Creams are a dream destination for any child old enough to ask and the place to be seen for teenagers. The black, glitzy interior with elevated padded booths has a 1980’s feel. The American/Italian menu includes sensational sundaes, waffles, crepes and any gelato you can imagine. The portion sizes do not disappoint.Creams, a franchise model, now have 60 stores throughout the UK and 9 coming soon. Creams pride themselves on their diversity and ability to welcome everyone, with locations varying from Barnsley to Dorchester, to Newcastle to Windsor:Creams Locations by GEOLYTIX Retail Place Type - December 2017Their location in Enfield is not in the main pitch, but on the very edge of the town centre; a visible site on a main road and at the entrance to Tesco. In Newcastle, Creams are not afraid to compete, locating near the oldest cafe and ice cream parlour in Newcastle (1962), Mark Toney. The Creams store is in a larger, more visible corner pitch (previously Pizza Hut), located near MacDonalds and KFC, a few minutes walk from the main shopping area.Many locations are large visible sites in Greater London and the Major Cities, with Edinburgh, Norwich, Southampton the largest cities yet to host a Creams. The Bournemouth cafe, again a visible corner unit is located in the smallest retail area, a local hub 1.5 miles out of the town centre towards the university.It’s not only Creams who’ve decided there is a market for an ice cream cafe chain. Kaspas, a very similar franchise, will soon have 67 locations, many in the same towns. In Nottingham, Creams are located on a prime pitch in the main eating square by the Theatre Royal, compared to Kaspas, a large visible unit located on a major route on the outskirts of the student side of the town.Ginos Gelato also plan to open 7o stores in the UK, branching out from their current estate in Ireland.It’s maybe the wrong time of year to be writing about ice cream, but given the queues when I visited for my son’s birthday, it seems many don’t agree!"
    },{
      "title": "Retail Points Updated",
      "date": "Wed Dec 06 2017 11:30:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2017-12-06-retail-points-released/",
      "excerpt": "6 facts about this release for the 6th day of December.",
      "content": "1 Booths closed – Morecambe (March)2 Whole Foods closing – Giffnock & Cheltenhem6 Waitrose closures – Cardiff Green Street (June), Palmers Green (August), Huntingdon, Hertford, Staines, Leek (September)New M&S Foodhall opened today at Liverpool Shopping Park on Edge Lane LiverpoolNovember openings included Aldi Langley & Denbigh and Lidl HayesLots of Co-op changes (I’ve travelled the country including the Isle of Arran), closures old and recent, openings including Stroud Road, Gloucester (November)You can download the data and accompanying documentation here.Please get in touch with any missing or new stores we haven’t captured. Or just email Lou to say how you are using this resource as this is always of great interest to us.Title Image: Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Geolytix Leeds",
      "date": "Wed Nov 29 2017 11:19:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2017-11-29-geolytix-leeds/",
      "excerpt": "We are pleased to announce the opening of our second UK office.",
      "content": "Adding to our HQ in Kings Cross London, we have opened a second UK hub in Leeds city centre working in cooperation with our partners at the ODI Leeds node.Leeds has been synonymous with Geolytix from our early days with Blair, Simon and the team being based in the city supporting key clients in-house. With many of our clients having a northern base and with Leeds having a strong network planning background, supported by Leeds University, the city was a natural choice for our UK expansion.Working with the ODI in their newly transformed space at Munro House (opposite the new Victoria Gate development) has allowed us to expand our reach and make new connections in a modern and dynamic environment. Our flexible working approach also means all our UK based jobs will now be available in both London and Leeds, including the recently listed Data Analyst and Spatial Data Engineer positions.Building on our UK office expansion, we look forward to announcing our first overseas office shortly. In the meantime, feel free to pop by our Leeds office and say hello, the kettle is always on!"
    },{
      "title": "MAPIC – what’s it all about?",
      "date": "Thu Nov 23 2017 11:14:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2017-11-23-mapic-whats-it-all-about/",
      "excerpt": "Last week Sarah and I were lucky enough to exhibit at MAPIC in Cannes with ESRI, one of our long-standing partners.",
      "content": "For those of you who don’t know what MAPIC is, it is the largest international retail real estate conference in Europe and has been running every year since 1995. Essentially it is a platform for retailers and property professionals from across the globe to connect, share and innovate – aka two and a half days of frantic networking!Hosted at the Palais de Festivales – the venue for the famous Cannes Film Festival – and situated on the idyllic French Mediterranean coast, there is no denying that it is a very prestigious event. The statistics alone speak for themselves:2,100 retailers2,500 + property developers80 countriesWe were unsure what to expect as we walked down the blue carpeted stairs to find our booth in the Innovation Forum. ESRI had representatives from across the globe; USA, Netherlands, Turkey, Sweden, Russia, France, Switzerland, Italy and we were impressed with the range of languages spoken at the booth. Although Sarah and I were restricted to English and some broken French, we met with both UK-based and global companies to talk about how our data, location planning and modelling skills can support their expansion strategies, helping to ensure they open stores in profitable locations. ESRI’s large touchpad of Story Maps really brought things to life, helping to demonstrate the power of visualising and analysing data spatially. I found it encouraging to hear that there were far more data and analytical companies exhibiting this year, illustrating the growing realisation of the importance of harnessing data to drive investment decisions.There was a real buzz about the place and walking around to see the various ways in which exhibitors had decorated their stands was fascinating. Away from the conference, the retail scene in Cannes was equally vibrant. Just a stone’s throw away from the conference, on La Croisette, there was a whole host of luxury retailers – including Chanel and Miu Miu – and in May 2016 Dior opened a flagship store which stretches across three floors. Just a two-minute walk from these high-end retailers, you reach Rue d’antibes, the main shopping street in Cannes and much more friendly for the purse. The street is fashion-oriented and clearly an attractive destination for both national and global brands. There were a few new names to me including Pimkie – a French fashion retailer, available in the UK through ASOS – and Oysho – a Spanish clothing retailer which was preparing to open whilst we were there. The area certainly wasn’t shy of British brands either, with Accessorize, Burton (with the fascia reading “Burton of London”) and Thomas Cook all having a presence.As I walked around the streets of Cannes to get a feel for the retail scene, it reminded me of the importance of understanding the micro-factors of a location, which all too commonly underpin store performance. Geolytix specialise in helping retailers to understand these and – based on the encouraging conversations we had at MAPIC – we hope we can help more businesses to do this as both we and they continue to expand operations across Europe and Asia-Pacific."
    },{
      "title": "European Census Data and Boundaries",
      "date": "Tue Nov 07 2017 11:06:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2017-11-07-european-census-data-and-boundaries/",
      "excerpt": "Censuses have been a critical element of running a civilisation since civilisation began.",
      "content": "Censuses have been a critical element of running a civilisation since civilisation began. If Luke is to believed, Jesus of Nazereth was only born in Bethlehem due to the strictures of the census of Quirinius. It is not recorded how the enumerators chose to code ‘omniscient’ when recording Jesus’s father’s education level.Today a foundation of any location/network planning project is to know where people are and as much information about them as possible. This allows analysts to understand your customers, direct resource where necessary and expand potential interactions with your business. In the age of massively large and contemporaneous data, censuses remain an absolutely vital near-definitive source of truth.This year has seen more projects for Geolytix outside of the UK, meaning we have needed the same data building blocks that we use in the UK to develop on. While we in the UK can take our user-friendly formatted census for granted (thanks to Blair’s processing and release as open data in the early Geolytix days), other countries don’t have such a readily available and usable data set without a lot of work.The purpose of a census is to describe the population living in a country at a point in time; to report on the population, structure of that population and geographical distribution. A census of the global population is taken roughly every 10 years, countries conduct their own and there are a different types of census carried out – traditional, rolling, administrative register and in some cases a combination.The United Nations Economic and Social Council encouraged Member States to carry out a population and housing census at least once in the period 2005-2014 and to release the results promptly. In April 2011 it is estimated 79% of the world population across 134 countries had been counted. Although surveys are conducted and reported more frequently they don’t allow for detailed reporting at small geographical areas. The census is the only statistical dataset that can have the level of coverage to capture a full country’s demographics and give a true overall representation.We are currently processing up all censuses starting with Europe to create a harmonised and convenient data product for uses across a host of sectors. The work consists of translation and harmonising variable names and full descriptions into English. Allocating consistent naming to allow easier comparison between the same variables captured across multiple countries – this is vital for businesses who operate in multiple countries. Assigning all the variables into groupings allows easier analysis when interested in specific variables and much more user friendly for accessing the most relevant you need; for example Estonia has over 2.3K variables so far and counting. The variables are grouped into population, gender, age, education, skills, economic activity, economic inactivity, family structure of individuals, household units, dwelling units, building form, region of origin, ethnicity, region of citizenship, region of migration, religion, race, urbanity, area, dependency and languages.Additional work has been carried out to create a seamless boundary, this has allowed bordering countries to seamlessly join and eradicates overlaps and gaps. An example of this is area where Portugal meets Spain creating a dynamic product for pan European analysis.We have processed the variables available at the lowest level of census administration geography available. We always link these geographies to both the codes and boundaries which can be aggregated up to create higher geographies or linked to other data sets (surveys etc.) to enhance the understanding of demographics within a country.As you can imagine challenges in accessibility of the data (free vs paid-for), the translation work and labour in creating consistent and user friendly formatting means this is an ongoing task. For Europe we aim to have the 32 European Union & European Free Trade Association countries processed and released within the first half of 2018 along with a handful of countries from further afield including the 2016 quinquennial censuses of Australia, Canada, Ireland and Hong Kong.As we increase the coverage we are also creating in-country and globally consistent families of scales describing lifestage, affluence, migration and urbanity.Please get in touch if you are interested in census data and boundary files for one, multiple or all countries.Title Image: Photo by USGS on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Republic of Ireland Retail Places",
      "date": "Mon Oct 23 2017 11:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2017-10-23-roi-retail-places/",
      "excerpt": "Retail Places is one of our most popular datasets. We have now expanding this to Republic of Ireland.",
      "content": "The UK dataset has been continuously improved and updated, and this year we are excited to announce that we have built a corresponding dataset for the Republic of Ireland. This will be the first of many as we plan to release data for across Europe over 2018.For retailers wanting to size up the Irish market and understand the potential for store expansion, this is a key dataset.The Irish dataset provides accurate boundaries for each retail place. With over 800 retail places in total, and coverage of the top 200 towns (by population), all the core areas are covered.This new dataset has been created in such a way that will allow you to move seamlessly between the UK and Ireland; categories and definitions are consistent. We have added a new category, ‘Neighbourhood Shopping Centre’, common across ROI and the rest of Europe. This is a retail area anchored by a small supermarket with up to 20 total retailers, and usually has its own parking. Over 100 of these centres can be found in Ireland.There are 22 retail place categories overall, from city centres down to weak parades. There are many small town centres in Ireland, contrasting to the UK which is much more dominated by larger city and town centres. In fact in Ireland, there are only 5 places with a population over 50,000; Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway and Waterford.Similarly to the UK dataset, a separate shopping centre layer has been created, as shopping centres are often a key focus for many retailers looking to open new stores. For example, see the centre of Cork (below). The black outline indicates the retail place, and you can see the shopping centres located within this.If you are thinking your next move may be in Ireland, please get in contact, we’d be delighted to hear from you.Title Image: Photo by Gregory DALLEAU on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "European Fast Fashion Sweeping the West End",
      "date": "Tue Oct 17 2017 11:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2017-10-17-european-fast-fashion-sweeping-the-west-end/",
      "excerpt": "In my June blog, I discussed my view on the future of Oxford Street, coming to the conclusion that although it faced some challenges, it was still an attractive shopping destination that would remain strong well into the future.",
      "content": "A few months on, 3 fashion retailers have now opened their first stores in the UK with flagships on Oxford Street and Regent Street. These are LPP’s Reserved brand and H&M Group’s brands Weekday and Arket. I made a visit to see what the excitement was about.Reserved is owned by LPP, a company with a number of brands and a strong presence across central and eastern Europe, especially in Poland. The first UK Reserved store was opened on 6th September on the site of the former BHS store on Oxford Street – a prime location. Reserved classes itself as an affordable clothing brand, and to me felt like it fitted between H&M and Topshop in terms of both style and price. The store is very modern, with large advertising screens on the back wall of the store, plenty of space and even houses a tree! The retailer looks set to make a successful name for itself, with plans already in place for a second London store and further stores in prime locations throughout the UK.Weekday opened on Regent Street on 18th August this year, one week before Arket. The two stores are located next to each other. Upon attending the store opening, there was clearly a lot of excitement about the brand’s UK debut. Weekday has been operating since 2002 across Europe and currently has 30 stores in 9 countries as well as operating in 18 online markets. The brand describes itself as a ‘modern and mindful fashion and denim brand’ appealing to ‘urban, conscious and style aware young adults’. Looking round the store, it definitely has some more ‘out there’, quirky clothing than many of its competitors, and falls somewhere between H&M and Zara in terms of price. Weekday offers printing stations within its stores with a new design printed each week to reflect current events. Other stores have been known to run similar lines, for example over the summer when Primark reacted to the ‘Love Island’ craze, printing slogan t-shirts related to the reality TV show which sold out almost instantly. However, with Weekday making this a consistent part of their brand, it should help to differentiate them from their competitors and encourage customers to visit the store regularly.Arket is a completely new brand, launched in August this year. As well as operating online in 18 European markets, the first physical store was opened on Regent Street on 25th August, with other stores now open in Copenhagen, Brussels, Munich and a second London store on Long Acre in Covent Garden which opened in September.Describing itself as a ‘modern-day market’, with a mission ‘to democratise quality through widely accessible, well-made, durable products’, the store certainly has differences from the average high street fashion retailer. On visiting the Regent Street store, the first striking difference is that the menswear section is located at ground level, with womenswear solely located on the upper floor which is very unusual. Interspersed with the clothing are small homeware sections, selling a unique combination of items from kitchen utensils to children’s toys to holdalls – some display items were arranged in glass cases, almost like museum exhibits. Further interesting features were the arrangement of clothes by colours and the presence of a vegetarian café, with a menu matching the ethics and principles of the brand. Overall, a higher-end high street brand with some interesting concepts, products and a unique store layout.So in conclusion, some interesting new brands which on first impressions have the potential to become very successful and as popular in the UK as they are already elsewhere in Europe (in the case of Weekday and Reserved). This triple opening also proves the strength and attractiveness of the UK as an international retail destination. Despite the impending cloud of Brexit and the resulting uncertainty in many sectors including retail, companies are still choosing to launch their brands and open new stores here. Long may it continue!"
    },{
      "title": "FOSS4G Boston 2017",
      "date": "Fri Sep 08 2017 10:52:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2017-09-08-foss4g-boston-2017/",
      "excerpt": "From August 13th – 19th Dennis & Kerst flew to Boston to take part in the annual FOSS4G conference – thanks GEOLYTIX!",
      "content": "It was a week full of presentations and talking to GIS people from around the world: there were over 1.100 participants from 48 nations! Below are some impressions from our time in Boston…Before Dennis’ first workshop we had some time to explore Boston……visiting the MIT……, being inspired……and saying ‘hello’ to John Harvard at Harvard Yard.The following day was full of workshops: Dennis talked aboutHex bin layers from raster and vector sources with PostGISin the morning andHex bin data from PostGIS as dynamic multivariate themed maps with Leaflet or OpenLayers on a Node.js backendin the afternoon.Finally the conference kicked off at the World Trade Center:The main conference hall was packed to listen to Paul Ramsey talk about “Why We Code”Over the next two and a half days we attended as many talks as we could…Monsanto & Boundless contribution to the open source community enabling fine grain entitlement for open source geospatial cloud systems (Geoserver) and desktop applications (QGIS) … The role of open source geospatial software for market research in natural resources … Extending PostGIS with Python … Discovering the world of open data … The UN OpenGIS Initiative … Big Data at the heart of open geospatial innovation…Extracting building information from remotely sensed imagery … Making money and building a business with Open Source Geospatial Technology: What works today? What will work in the future?Maps continued to follow us to the social BBQ event outside the conference center…More talks on Thursday:Coding as a first resort .. .A journey through R for Geo … Live Drone Map – An automatic real-time UAV mapping solution … Imaging the earth every day … MapBox GL: How vector maps work … Fake maps – very dishonest … Visualization and analysis of active transportation patterns derived from public webcams … Free Software: Freedom, Privacy, SovereigntyOn Thursday night there was a gala event at the New England Aquarium – talking GIS next to sea life……taking the boat from the conference center to the aquarium…… high 5 from an ancient turtle……can you spot the Anaconda?The last day of the conference…What defines a neighborhood? … Processing imagery from the world’s largest fleet of satellites … Exploring location data services through SQL … Falsehoods programmers believe about time and space … Big weather data, all about partitions and precipitation … Indexes in geo-temporal data sets … How much is enough?We look back at FOSS4G 2017 as a great event that gave us the opportunity to meet fantastic GIS people from all over the world. For next year we are looking forward to attending FOSS4G in Dar es Salaam!"
    },{
      "title": "Public Transport Data",
      "date": "Thu Sep 07 2017 11:18:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2017-09-07-geolytix-public-transport-data/",
      "excerpt": "Public transport data is fundamental to any consumer-orientated location planning project. ",
      "content": "Knowing how easy it is for customers to travel to your store is crucial in successful decision making – after all, if customers can’t get to your store it is unlikely to perform well.GEOLYTIX’s Public Transport data set has recently been updated and is a reliable, comprehensive source of public transport stops and lines throughout the UK. The pack contains 16 data sets:Access PointsAirportsBus StopsCoach HubsCycle HubsFerry PortsLight Rail LinesLight Rail StationsOyster Card ZonesRail LinesRail StationsHeritage Rail StationsPlanned Rail LinesTaxi RanksUnderground LinesUnderground StationsWhether you want to know where tube station entrances and exits are, which stations are the busiest or maybe where the major transport hubs in each city are located, look no further. As well as detailed coverage of urban areas, rural areas are also well covered, including heritage rail stations, bus stops, light rail lines such as the Southport Pier Tramway and the Southend Pier Railway, and over 80 airports.Of particular note for 2017 is the addition of the Belfast Coca-Cola Zero Belfast Bikes scheme to the Cycle Hub data set. Also, all point data sets now have a town and country associated with them, allowing you to easily filter by place.Such a wealth of transport data can be complemented with our Point of Interest data pack which contains data sets such as car parks and service areas. This gives you an extensive picture of accessibility for consumers travelling by both public and private transport, perfect for ensuring your new store is in a suitable location. In addition, the planned rail lines data set which includes the Crossrail line can help to plan for the future.If you would like to know more about this data set or any other data sets that GEOLYTIX produce, please see our website or contact Louise Cross."
    },{
      "title": "The changing face of Enfield. Ditching mainstream fashion for wine tasting, a pedicure and a Cuban night",
      "date": "Mon Jul 24 2017 11:15:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2017-07-24-the-changing-face-of-enfield-ditching-main-stream-fashion-for-a-pedicure-wine-tasting-and-cuban-night/",
      "excerpt": "I moved to Enfield 13 years ago, leaving Crouch End to take advantage of the lower house prices.",
      "content": "Since 2004, average house prices in Enfield have doubled, with property prices still 25 – 30% lower than the London average. I wasn’t aware until I moved that ‘everything was on my doorstep’ – within 5 minutes I can get to 4 of the top 5 supermarkets, B&Q (came in handy for house renovations), the park, the cinema and a trampoline park. Without leaving my car I can pick up a McDonalds with a Krispy Kreme for dessert (I’m not kidding, a Krispy Kreme drive thru!). It’s a stark contrast to my home town of Brighouse which still has Sunday closing.Palace Shopping, a 14,000m2 centre opened in 2006, making Enfield more of a destination, with residents only having to travel further for a Primark or John Lewis. This may have contributed to the half a dozen prominent units now standing empty on the main high street.Enfield Town is changing. In the last 12 months 5 well known high street names have closed – Mothercare, Oasis, Dorothy Perkins, Bennetton and Thorntons. All is not lost – Pearsons the department store has continued to update, include new brands and is performing well (latest sales up 1.7% to £19.2m).According to our retail places product, Enfield Town has ~200 retail units, less than 20% of which are food & beverage, lower than similar ranking towns. Enfield Town have recently released their Master Plan for the future, which focuses on the need to strengthen the evening economy, which they hope will come about by cafes, leisure and restaurants occupying the vacant units on Church Street, strengthening the links between the Eastern and Western side of the town.Enfield Town has a high, growing population – an estimated 5,596 people live within the town itself (Geolytix forecast population within the Geolytix locale boundary), up 24% from 2011. It’s therefore maybe surprising that the high street giants are closing- Enfield has a strong local community and some fear that rising rents and car park charging is not helping the town. However, Enfield isn’t alone. For example, Mothercare had a presence on the majority of high streets with ~400 stores in 2000. They now have only ~150, with plans to close up to another 70, as 41% of sales have moved online. Next and Boots are 2 brands that have opened on the nearest retail park to Enfield town centre but kept their high street presence.Geolytix Locale Boundaries for Enfield and the surrounding areaWhat else is happening in Enfield Town? Beauty continues to thrive – Champneys and Toni and Guy are joined by Rush and independent Lillys. Coffee shops, unsurprisingly burst at the seams, giving opportunities for independents: Malone & Co, located off the main high street uses social media, word of mouth, great service and great food to drive business. Art Town combines a café, live Blues and Cuban music and music shop to create a successful venue for day and night. Stantons Coffee shop has opened in Bush Hill Park by 2 brothers passionate about bringing the central London coffee culture ‘up North’.Retailers from abroad are giving Enfield a chance; Deichmann clothing and Smiggle have both opened over the last year.Different, and dare I say it more interesting stores are popping up. Fresh Trader has opened, a Costco for the high street and the latest opening is Meat EN2.Meat is an independent butchers, delicatessen and wine store that tested out Enfield by firstly selling from its market. The shop is eclectic and enticing (even to a vegetarian!). On the Sunday I visited there was a buzz created by the 4 staff, who make all the in-store sausages and burgers from free range British meat. Wine and cheese tasting created a theatre and an atmosphere that you wouldn’t expect from a typical high street butchers.Enfield is the third store to open, with their first two in Stoke Newington and Tuffnell park. They acknowledge that Enfield is different – Stoke Newington is Local through and through, filled with independent shops, a population with higher disposable incomes and there was uproar when Sainsbury’s tried to open in 2013. However, the Enfield store is located on a more prominent high street with higher footfall and early signs are promising.As with other towns across the UK, the mix of retail is moving away from the traditional high street chains towards independents, meaning rents may eventually have to fall. Hopefully the community of Enfield can support Fresh Trader, Malone & Co and Meat EN2, enticing other businesses to open and occupy the vacant units along the high street, securing the future of the town."
    },{
      "title": "We’ve nearly outgrown our favourite Curly Whirly cake",
      "date": "Fri Jul 07 2017 11:12:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2017-07-07-weve-nearly-outgrown-our-favourite-curly-whirly-cake/",
      "excerpt": "We were delighted to welcome Agata and Dan to our growing team last month.",
      "content": "Agata joins us as a developer and brings with her spatial expertise having graduated from from the Bartlett Centre for Advanced Spatial Analysis. Dan, a fellow mathematician is keen to build on his previous experience supporting Network Strategy and Location decisions in the Retail, Leisure and Automotive sectors.Looking forward to employee #17 joining when we’ll need 2 Curly Whirly cakes to go round!"
    },{
      "title": "Education Data 2017",
      "date": "Tue Jun 20 2017 11:10:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2017-06-20-geolytix-education-data-2017/",
      "excerpt": "Currently in the UK, about 25% of the population are in education.",
      "content": "Comprising a significant proportion of the total population, this group of young people, typically aged up to 21, are unique consumers who forge distinct patterns in both geography and the economy. Knowing where places of education are located is therefore crucial in enabling wise location planning and other strategic decisions.Geolytix build their education dataset annually from open data sources, enhancing and combining different datasets to create a comprehensive UK Education pack geocoded at postcode level and compromised of the following:Early Year CentresSchoolsFurther/ Higher Education InstitutionsUniversity BuildingsUniversity Points of Interest (POI)University Term DatesUniversity Student NumbersEarly YearsEarly Years data is composed of over 90,000 nurseries, childminders, early years centres, playgroups and crèches. Where available the following information is included: contact details, registration date, provision and service type e.g. nursery/ childminder and voluntary/ local authority provided, registers the provider is on, the number of places and any inspection dates and outcomes. Withheld information mainly applies to individual childminders and home childcarers and is for legal and security purposes.SchoolsThere are almost 30,000 schools across the UK. This includes state-funded primary and secondary schools, grammar, independent and special educational need (SEN) schools which are also allocated by school management type, for example academy, free school, voluntary, local authority or independent. A large number of further attribute columns are also provided: contact details, upper and lower ages, capacity, gender, if the school has either a sixth form or takes boarders, religious affiliation, SEN provision and pupil numbers, % pupils eligible for free school meals and Ofsted ratings (England only).With this information, it is clear to see how you might begin to build up a picture not only of the basic facts about geographical distribution, but also how you may infer more general information about the types of areas schools are located within; for example a high percentage of free school meal eligibility may imply a more deprived area or a cluster of schools with a particular religious affiliation may indicate a high concentration of a particular religious or ethnic population.Further EducationFurther education institutions are split into sixth form centres, colleges and universities. The 677 records include contact details, higher and lower age limits, number of students (split by type depending on institution), and total number of staff and car parking spaces (where available).University Buildings and POI2017 has seen an extensive update to the university building and poi datasets. A total of 34 universities have been added, compromised of 381 new buildings, and a further 13 existing universities have been updated, making a total of 440 new buildings in the 2017 dataset. The list of universities is aligned with the Higher Education Statistics Authority (HESA).Newly-added universities include many of the arts and music colleges across the UK including the schools of the Conservatoire for Dance and Drama such as RADA and LAMDA as well as the Royal College of Music, Guildhall School of Music and Drama, Royal Northern College of Music, Royal College of Art, Glasgow School of Art, Plymouth College of Art and Norwich University of the Arts. In addition, all of the University of London’s UK colleges are now included along with all of their owned accommodation. The following colleges have been added:BirbeckCourtauld Institute of ArtHeythrop CollegeLondon Business SchoolLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineRoyal Academy of MusicRoyal Veterinary College (RVC)School of Advanced StudyThe Institute of Cancer ResearchThe Royal Central School of Speech and DramaOther notable additions include all the colleges and associated learning centres of the University of the Highlands and Islands (a total of 96 buildings), the University of Suffolk and the new Sport and Fitness club at the University of Birmingham which opened this month.Across the country, 67 new student residences have been recorded, capturing over 11,500 students. With purpose-built student accommodation growing rapidly, it is crucial to keep up to date with where students live as they are a unique consumer group with distinct spending habits and form a significant proportion of the population of many cities. Combined with our university term dates and student number spreadsheets, you can be clear on what to expect from student spending across the course of a year, helping you to plan and predict spending patterns more accurately.In addition to university buildings, there are 162 new points of interest, with 1882 points in total. These consist of catering outlets, access points such as receptions, entrances and car parks and sports facilities, helping you to quickly identify key points around a university campus.Having all of this information recorded together in one data pack is invaluable. Whether you are a retailer looking to open a new store in a student area or target parents on the school run or are a local organisation assessing education provision or socioeconomic/ community needs, the education pack can help with your decision-making.If you would like to know more or are interested in purchasing the data, please see the interactive map and documentation on our website or contact Louise Cross.Title Image: Photo by Michael D Beckwith on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "The Future of Oxford Street: Strength to Strength or Fighting for Survival?",
      "date": "Tue Jun 06 2017 11:07:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/the-future-of-oxford-street-strength-to-strength-or-fighting-for-survival/",
      "excerpt": "London’s Oxford Street is one of the busiest shopping destinations in the world with a history stretching back well over 100 years.",
      "content": "Drawing more than half a million visitors every day, the street is facing some major changes in the next 5 years from Crossrail and pedestrianisation. The question is whether these developments will be enough to keep Oxford Street as a world-class shopping destination in the face of changing consumer trends.The West End generates ~3% of the UK’s economic output. At its heart is Oxford Street, covering a 1.2 mile stretch from Marble Arch in the west to Tottenham Court Road in the east, attracting huge numbers of tourists, residents and workers alike. Due to its draw, Oxford Street and the surrounding area face challenges from overcrowding (both cars and pedestrians), leading to congestion and accidents, and from significant air and noise pollution, reducing the quality of the shopping environment. One of the proposed ways to solve these issues is through pedestrianisation.PedestrianisationLondon’s Mayor, Sadiq Khan, has proposed the pedestrianisation of a large stretch of Oxford Street from Tottenham Court Road to Bond Street. Restrictions on cars are already in place but buses and taxis are a constant presence. Making the street traffic-free would dramatically increase safety – 10/24 of Transport for London’s (TfL) collision hotspots in 2014 were along Oxford Street – and reduce pollution, creating a more pleasant environment for shoppers. This is increasingly important as consumers have greater choice between both retailer destinations and online shopping.London is home to a number of large one-stop shopping centres, notably Brent Cross and the two Westfield centres at Shepherd’s Bush (White City) and Stratford which opened in 2008 and 2011. Brent Cross is currently being extended and a new Westfield centre in Croydon is being developed, both of which are due to open within 5 years. These centres are all indoors, offer a mix of retail, food and leisure and have large car parks, giving them a distinct advantage in convenience over traditional high streets. A pedestrianised Oxford Street should make it more attractive compared to these major centres.Last September, a decision was made to pedestrianise a 2 mile stretch of the Voie Georges-Pompidou in Paris, one of the city’s busiest roads connecting east and west Paris after a 6-month trial. As Paris’ deputy Mayor Christophe Najdovski is reported as saying in this article, “as we have seen with this type of project across the whole world, including places like New York and Rio, […] when an urban highway is transformed or closed, there is an evaporation of traffic. Either people modify their route, or they use their car less and take other forms of transport.” Although the type of location in Paris varies from Oxford Street, it will be interesting to keep an eye on the longer-term impacts to see if anything can be learnt and applied to London, and whether the impact can be as smooth as Christophe Najdovski implies.Pedestrianisation will also present many challenges. First and foremost, the 270 buses that run along Oxford Street every hour would have to run an alternate route, increasing congestion throughout the rest of the West End. The whole area is constantly busy, so moving the traffic off Oxford Street will potentially just shift the problem elsewhere. The impact to some businesses could be high, both on the street itself and through congestion in the surrounding area.Careful consideration also needs to be given to those who are less able to travel along Oxford Street easily on foot, as direct accessibility via buses and taxis will be reduced. Some shops such as Selfridges do have their own car park, and therefore arguably may be less impacted by a reduction in public transport, but this is clearly not an option for everyone. Delivery vehicles will also be impacted, and therefore carefully planned alternate routes and access points will be key in resolving these accessibility issues.Personally, I see the most interesting impact to retail being the barrier created from Bond Street to Marble Arch, the only section that would remain unpedestrianised. Apart from the obvious physical barrier of traffic, I expect there would also be a mental barrier beyond this point, with people choosing to end their shopping trips when they get to the end of the pedestrianisation zone; after all, all the big department stores and major retailers have at least one store in the planned pedestrianised area. It will be interesting to see whether stores such as the Primark by Marble Arch are a strong enough pull to keep this end of the street alive. Either way, it is almost certain that this section of the street will see an impact following pedestrianisation. That is, unless Crossrail saves the day…CrossrailCrossrail, or the Elizabeth Line, is Europe’s largest current construction project and is due for completion in 2020. It will run from Reading and Heathrow in the west to Abbey Wood and Shenfield in the east and will vastly reduce journey times as well as increasing rail capacity in central London by 10%. Both Tottenham Court Road and Bond Street stations on Oxford Street will have a stop on the line.The most obvious benefits are that central London’s accessibility will improve for the millions of people living not just in greater London, but further afield too. Quicker journey times mean that Oxford Street will become more attractive to people who may have previously opted to visit alternative shopping destinations. For example, travel time from Heathrow to Bond Street will take 26 minutes, half the time of the current journey on the tube. Congestion will also be reduced at Oxford Circus, one of the busiest stations on the network.Passenger numbers at the current Oxford Street tube stations have remained fairly constant over the last few years (see graph). Major falls and increases in passenger numbers are accountable to long term station improvements taking place, so Crossrail impacts should be clear to see once the line starts running through central London in December 2018.The New West End Company (NWEC) predict a sales increase of £1 billion by 2020 on Oxford Street and a 30% increase in visits as a result of Crossrail alone. TfL also predict that there could be a 50% increase in the number of passengers using Bond Street station, particularly good news for the far west side of Oxford Street if pedestrianisation goes ahead.Future ChallengesIf pedestrianisation is made a reality within the next few years and combined with the opening of Crossrail, Oxford Street is potentially looking at a huge boost in sales and visitor numbers. But will these two changes be enough? Removing traffic and increasing accessibility should make the area more attractive, but are not necessarily reasons enough when in competition with the likes of the Westfield centres and the new developments at Brent Cross and Croydon. Yet, Oxford Street is home to Selfridges and the flagships of many retailers such as John Lewis and Topshop, as well as neighbouring affluent Bond Street and Regent Street. It is strong location, brand presence and renowned global reputation that will continue to help the street retain its appeal in the face of an uncertain future. There is definitely still a place for the high street in retail, especially this one.Of course, change does not come overnight, and it will be many years before the impacts of Crossrail and pedestrianisation can be assessed fully. Careful management of traffic dispersion through alternative routes as well as accessibility for different groups to ensure the area remains an inclusive space will be key in determining success. The street is still attractive to retailers with Polish chain Reserved! set to launch its first UK store in the old BHS space later this year; however, effort needs to be maintained in ensuring Oxford Street remains a strong and world-renowned retail destination.With Crossrail, pedestrianisation and new developments on the way, only one thing is certain; big changes are coming. Watch this space!"
    },{
      "title": "Retail Points Update - May 2017",
      "date": "Wed May 31 2017 11:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/retail-points-update-now-available/",
      "excerpt": "Not only has it been busy in the Geolytix office but as always in the turbulent world of food retail there having been many announcements over the past few months.",
      "content": "Marks and Spencer have announced 6 closures but that they plan to open 36 new shops in the next 6 months. The discounters are continuing to open stores with Lidl opening 2 in May alone (Llandaf & Carlton) and Aldi not only opening stores throughout the UK but have a large number of grand openings across the United States. Iceland’s Food Warehouse fascia has increased from 12 in April 2016 to over 30 as of now and there are sprinkling of openings from the big 5 such as an Asda Superstore in South Ruislip which opened last week. Waitrose’s now has presence in Haywards Heath, Faringdon and Leatherhead which all opened earlier in the year and the recent project start on its Banbury set to open at Christmas.With yesterday’s announcement from the CMA opening its investigation into the Tesco/Booker deal watch this space for any knock on impacts from the outcome.You can download the data and accompanying documentation here.Please get in touch with any missing or new stores we haven’t captured. Or just email Lou to say how you are using this resource as this is always of great interest to us."
    },{
      "title": "GEOLYTIX Point of Interest Data 2017",
      "date": "Mon May 22 2017 11:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2017-05-22-geolytix-point-of-interest-data-2017/",
      "excerpt": "Location planning spans a wide range of industries from retail to the public sector. Complex decisions require a multitude of inputs, and that is where Geolytix’s Point of Interest (POI) data can be used.",
      "content": "Location planning spans a wide range of industries from retail to the public sector. Complex decisions require a multitude of inputs, and that is where Geolytix’s Point of Interest (POI) data can be used. An invaluable resource which is updated annually, the dataset contains 13 different POI types to aid a large variety of locational and other strategic decisions.Our 13 POI categories spanning health, leisure and public sector locations are as follows:Car ParksCinemasCourtsDental SurgeriesGP PracticesHospitalsMOT GaragesOpticiansPharmaciesPrisonsService AreasSport and Leisure FacilitiesStadiaCar Parks, MOT Garages and Service AreasThe car parks dataset contains over 20,000 locations across Great Britain. Information includes cost, available spaces by vehicle type and number of parent and child and disabled spaces as well as weekday and weekend opening indicators. This detail can give an indication of accessibility, helping to assess the viability of locations in relation to your customers. In addition, knowing the locations of over 22,000 MOT garages and almost 350 road service areas means you can be clear about local provision for transport in your area, helping to identify potential locations for target customers.Geolytix also hold detailed data on public transport in a separate dataset which, combined with this POI data gives an invaluable insight into your area and the movement of population.CinemasPOI cinema data contains locations of both mainstream and independent cinemas across the UK. With over 900 points compromised of address, brand and screen count attributes, this comprehensive list gives an idea of the size and locations of key leisure destinations in the UK. Used in combination with our retail places dataset gives a clear picture of all leisure park destinations across the UK, key in retail and leisure location decision-making.Courts and PrisonsCourt data includes address, contact details and type of each court. Prison data includes prison type, capacity and gender. These attributes can aid analysis involving accessibility and population and could give an indication of footfall and passing trade in the surrounding area.Health FacilitiesDental Surgeries, GPs, Opticians, Pharmacies and Hospitals are provided across the UK. Available information compromises addresses for each dataset as well as:Dental Surgeries: NHS/ Private indicatorGPs – practice status, contact details and open dateOpticians – brand and open datePharmacies – brand, open date and organisation typeHospitals – hospital typeIn addition, new for 2017, hospitals have been geocoded at rooftop level, providing a high level of accuracy.Health data is invaluable across multiple industries from assessing potential footfall to location type to accessibility.Sports and Leisure FacilitiesThis comprehensive dataset contains almost 42,000 locations for sport and leisure facilities across the UK. As well as assessing accessibility and potential passing trade, the dataset could also be used to identify gaps in the market.StadiaThe UK has a wealth of cultural locations which include over 500 stadia, used for sports matches, concerts and numerous other events. Many of these stadiums hold thousands of spectators, making knowledge of their locations key to strategic location decision making.With location as key a factor today as ever, important decisions need to be able to rely on a robust and accurate set of data. Geolytix’s Point of Interest data does just that, providing a large number of interesting and comprehensive datasets spanning a wide range of uses across different industries.At Geolytix we take pride in our use of open data to create our datasets, ensuring accuracy and adding value where we can to create a set of reliable and up-to-date datasets. If you are interested in finding out more about the POI dataset or any other data that Geolytix has to offer, please see the ‘Geodata’ section of our website or alternatively contact Louise Cross."
    },{
      "title": "Administrative Boundaries > OpenStreetMap",
      "date": "Fri Mar 31 2017 10:55:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2017-03-31-administrative-boundaries-openstreetmap/",
      "excerpt": "Here at GEOLYTIX we believe that the best available administrative boundaries data should be open and easily accessible. We are a little vain in respect to our maps. Badly fitting boundaries should not be crossed out.",
      "content": "Unlike those maps which were used during orienteering with Napalm Death. Apart from being accurate, informative and pretty, we like our maps to be fast, and for coastal boundaries to be invisible, please.It is likely that your base layer of choice is OpenStreetMap. Our base layer of choice will always be sourced from OpenStreetMap. It is fair to say that…We ❤ OSM at GEOLYTIX.The potential for OSM is huge. But being a community project, OSM can only be as good as the combined efforts of the community which supports it. We are always happy to contribute wherever and whenever possible. Not only do we try to contribute data, we also want to promote the community itself and explore new means of getting more people involved. We certainly hope that you will join us in this endeavour.I admit that it may be intimidating to get started with OSM. Wrapping your head around the data structures can be a challenge. There are still a lot of missing maps and until a recently it wasn’t actually that easy to access the data in your GIS. But Open Source developments are rapid and Etienne Trimaille wrote the excellent QuickOSM QGIS plugin for 3liz. Libérez vos SIG indeed.Here is me running a query that imports every Spanish Municipality border with its name and ID. This ID is the key for linking a wealth of data with a locality.We don’t have our own overpass-api server, yet. Massive thanks go therefore to OSM-France, Germany and Russia who kindly offer this service to anyone.The future is vector tiles.Equally impressive is the capability to style boundaries in OSM vector tiles. We will soon offer our own set of OSM styles for GEOLYTIX vector tiles. The guys at OpenMapTiles have already done the hard bits and showing us now how easy it can be to switch.Here is a screenshot of me highlighting municipalities as easy as 1-2-3 with OpenMapTiles’ hosted Maputnik Editor. Isn’t it a treat to see the boundaries run into the ocean?Of course vector tiles are also ridiculous fast and easy on the network.How do we get all the boundaries into OpenStreetMap then?It’s not going to be easy but we will try our best to get there. This will also involve a lot of manual work. More than any single person or organisation could possibly achieve. The boundaries also want to be maintained and of course boundaries change all the time. Being able to time stamp out of date boundaries is a real beauty in OSM. How much work this will be is hard to estimate. Some countries do not publish official boundaries while other countries already have most of their boundaries in OSM.Let’s look at a case study I did for municipal boundaries in Spain. I did not have to digitise a single node. All of the boundaries already existed, but problems existed with incorrect names, codes, and admin levels. Some relations could not form closed boundaries due to missing outer ways. Other ways had duplicate associations and tags are often chaotic. A few hundred edits and 15 hours later the municipal boundaries are now complete. For the 2011 census. And only for the Iberian Peninsula and the Balearic Islands. There are still a handful of changes which happened in the last couple of years.It will only be a matter of time before someone breaks a boundary. These accidents happen and we are looking forward to help when they do.The idea is to write a system which automatically checks the consistency of geometry, currency and identification. This will require us to finally setup our own overpass-api server. Thereafter it will be possible to run regular automated checks. Whether each relation forms a polygon. Whether the last census data can be linked in it’s entirety via unique identifier tags. Should boundaries overlap? Are there intentional missing areas? Has the area size significantly changed since our last check?This project is still in its infancy and every input, every bit of help is welcome. We will keep you updated. Just drop us a line if you are interested to learn more or if you want to get involved."
    },{
      "title": "We’re still telling our customers where to go – a year in the world of location planning and network strategy",
      "date": "Thu Mar 30 2017 10:50:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2017-03-30-were-still-telling-our-customers-where-to-go-a-year-in-the-world-of-location-planning-and-network-strategy/",
      "excerpt": "Whilst for many 2016 was heavily tainted by Brexit and Trump, for Geolytix it has been a year of establishing our European and Global Strategy.",
      "content": "Personally, it’s been a year where I’ve branched out from my comfort zone, working with new sectors and foreign markets. By no means has it been an easy ride, but what a year it’s been.Staying true to our roots but branching outAs exciting as work in different markets is, we still remain passionate about supporting our long-standing customers, and enjoy the challenge of bringing new innovation into these sectors.At the same time we’ve grabbed the opportunity to apply our spatial modelling and location planning expertise to new sectors, demonstrating the power of spatial analytics to new people and markets. We have developed strong partnerships with smaller organisations and have supported their site strategy decisions through providing evidence-based, data driven location intelligence. For these smaller firms – who do not have the capacity in-house – we are able to act as the Location Planning departments and are finding an increasing number of businesses approaching us with this requirement.Building for the futureAlmost all of our customers pre-2014 were UK-based. Given that the current team includes 3 Germans and 1 Australian we realised it was time to take on new challenges. In 2016 we have, and will continue to invest heavily in new, powerful European and US datasets as the first of a global roadmap of new datasets. It didn’t take us long to become acquainted with the perils of such a task. Aside from the translation issues, the varying levels of access (free vs paid-for), data quality and geographical granularity made our lives very difficult, but all led to a high level of satisfaction following the successful delivery of a range of multi-territory projects.With technology continuing to advance and an increasing need for businesses to harness location analysis in investment decisions, the platforms we are using to deliver our solutions has evolved. As a growing number of users are also from non-technical backgrounds we found it necessary to start building user-friendly, web-based mapping solutions. Many of our clients are reaping the benefits of such applications – there is no software to install, users can access the solution anywhere (providing there’s an internet connection) and sharing of information is straight-forward and seamless. For larger organisations, bringing together a ‘power user’ desktop GIS and a web tool to share insight across the organisation is a top objective.What now for 2017?Whilst the rest of the world may be putting up barriers and dissolving partnerships, we will continue to do quite the opposite: building relationships with new sectors, extending our reach into non-UK markets and opening up our solutions to a much wider audience. What is more, we will continue to enhance our existing products and release new novel data so there will be plenty to look out for throughout 2017. As we move into a new financial year we look forward to tackling new adventures and helping more organisations to make better decisions where locations matters.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPhoto by Glenn Carstens-Peters on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Fresh Trader: Can a wholesaler succeed on the high street?",
      "date": "Tue Mar 14 2017 10:50:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2017-03-14-fresh-trader-can-a-wholesaler-succeed-on-the-high-street/",
      "excerpt": "We welcome back Angela, our guest blogger, who shares her view on a different kind of grocery store…",
      "content": "Smack bang right in the middle of an average, non-descript high street in the suburbs of North London sits a shop with a fresh concept. Nowhere else like it, this unique wholesale food and grocery shop named Fresh Traders is a breath of fresh air. This type of shop appeals to me 100%. Bulk buying of food and other household essentials panders to my obsessional fear of running out of something when you need it most. I like to be ready and stocked up as though the apocalypse were imminently upon us. Because during the apocalypse, bulk packs of fresh salmon and crevettes will obviously be all we need. I digress.Fresh Trader is a simple brand with a great ethos behind it. One can go in, stock up on good quality fresh meat, fish and household items such as laundry powder and cleaning products, at wholesale prices. They offer services such as Collect by Car and there is space for the customer to drive to the premises and collect your order, meaning you can do the rest of your shopping without having a kilo of salmon hanging over your shoulder. Moreover they offer the customer free tea and coffee and a pleasant team of staff are on hand to help and answer your questions. As the shop sells bulk packs of everything, the idea is that you’re getting more for your money. However, this could turn people away owing to the size of their cupboards – we don’t all live in huge houses and a bumper pack of Persil may not be what everyone wants to store in a small kitchen.There are regular offers on – for example 1kg fresh raw Crevettes for £11.99, 5 litres of olive oil for £6.99 and 1kg of Italian Espresso Beans for £6.99. These are not prices to be sniffed at and makes healthy eating affordable if you’re prepared to buy in bulk. This shop is Costco for the high street and an asset. The staff are friendly, helpful and will help you any way they can. The team of managers who run the facility are more than happy to order in specific items for the customer. One of them helped me find a bulk deal on Prosecco I was searching for. Very helpful indeed. Great customer service will keep people going back for more.The business started up in November 2015 and have been steadily doing well since. Their aim is to be able expand into high streets in new areas, and ultimately nationwide. They are developing a website to enhance the service they provide – quality food at trade prices. Supporting a small business is always a plus and here’s hoping the locals will support this one."
    },{
      "title": "Birmingham New Street/Grand Central: A space fit for the 21st century",
      "date": "Fri Mar 03 2017 11:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2017-03-03-birmingham-new-street-grand-central-a-space-fit-for-the-21st-century/",
      "excerpt": "On a fleeting visit to Birmingham I had some time to explore the redeveloped area at Grand Central/ New Street station.",
      "content": "Although the redevelopment has been completely open for over a year, the inside area still feels brand new and is well looked after. All the trains run from a lower level and the concourse is at ground level within the Grand Central Shopping Centre. With multiple exits to the neighbouring shopping streets, it is easily accessible, and the vast open space and numerous points to access the platforms mean that even at rush hour there is plenty of space and it does not feel overcrowded.In terms of the retail offer, it reminds me very much of St Pancras station; shops are uniform with floor to ceiling glass, bright lighting and a higher end offer. Think Cath Kidston, Joules, The White Company, MAC and Pandora teamed with premium food/snack outlets such as Caffè Concerto and Joe and the Juice, not to mention the huge John Lewis located on the south side. These shops span the ground and upper floors of the station area and do include some slightly cheaper options too such as Select and rapidly growing Danish chain Tiger; however these are more tucked away from the main area towards the exits.Therefore it seems clear that this redevelopment has aimed to put Birmingham New Street on the map, not just as a train station but also as a premium shopping destination. It must surely draw in more shoppers from the city centre and even further afield as well as capturing the commuter traffic.So has it been successful redevelopment? In my opinion yes, there is certainly a vast improvement both to the station itself and the retail offer. Accessibility both on foot and by car is much improved, it is clean, there is a lot of open space and plenty of places to eat and shop. It is a truly modern, multi-purpose space fit for today’s commuters and shoppers alike."
    },{
      "title": "Fishnets, Honeycombs and Footballs – Better spatial models with hexagonal grids.",
      "date": "Fri Mar 03 2017 10:55:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2017-03-03-fishnets-honeycombs-and-footballs-better-spatial-models-with-hexagonal-grids/",
      "excerpt": "I love the unique mathematical properties of hexagonal tiling for spatial analysis and the inherent possibility to create beautiful bi-variate hex maps.",
      "content": "GEOLYTIX asked me to share some of my thoughts about hex grids. What makes them special and why are they better suited for all aspects of our work than fishnets. There will be an in-depth look at the design of hex maps with Leaflet and Openlayers in a series of future blog posts and I am planning to do a workshop at FOSS4G 2017 in Boston. In this post I want to give a brief overview of regular grid sampling and the benefits of hexagonal grids over rectangular grids.Hexagons are the closest shape to a circle that can form a regular grid.Regular tiling of an Euclidean surface (eg. a map) can be achieved with triangles, squares (fishnets), or hexagons. The latter two can be further tessellated into triangles. But why is hexagonal tessellation best for maps?The honeycomb conjecture itself was only proven in 1999 by American mathematician Thomas C. Hales. There is however plenty of accessible material on the nature of hex structures. My favourite is this TED.ed video.It all boils down to the high perimeter / area ratio. Structural strength. That which is good for physical models should be good for an analytical model as well. But how does the need for less bee wax relate to making better maps? A map is a Cartographic (flat) representation of a distinct part of the spherical Earth. We must therefore flatten its surface in order for features to be drawn on a flat screen.We ain’t going back to make you use cathode ray tubes for our web maps but fewer edges mean that less material needs to be bend when we put a hexagonal grid over a curving surface.Think about the white bits on a golden age football.Every point on the surface of a hexagon is on average closer to the centre compared with points in a triangle or rectangle. This causes less distortion of the shape. Here is a more relevant representation which shows a hexagonal grid on an azimuthal projection which uses the location of GEOLYTIX offices in London as centre.For the scientifically minded there is a peer reviewed article from Birch et al on ‘Rectangular and hexagonal grids used for observation, experiment and simulation in ecology’.Turning heterogeneous areas into regular grid surfacesThe next two grid maps show European countries split into equally sized hexagonal and rectangular grids.Apart from Luxembourg being completely ignored in the rectangular grid due a shape mismatch at the selected resolution it can be seen that the hexagonal grid matches the international boundaries better than the rectangular presentation.The next screenshot shows the distribution of registered unemployed in communities near Vienna. Very little variation can be seen in the rural communities outside the capital.We get a much better insight into the actual distribution of unemployed labourers if we apply the figures from the communities to a hexagonal grid (1km cell height) which has been created from the Global Human Settlement (GHS) population grid. We see that large stretches of land are forests and do not represent the populated areas in which we are interested for a social model.Unlike fixed reporting geometries, grid cells can be sized according to the required model scale. If we zoom out of the region shown in the images above we can no longer distinguish small urban communities. A hexagonal grid with 4km cell height however clearly shows the population distribution across the extended region.Gridded networksAn important advantage of the hexagonal grid is the unambiguous definition of nearest neighbourhood: Each hexagon has six adjacent hexagons in symmetrically equivalent positions (Birch et al. 2000). In contrast, the rectangulargrid has two different kinds of nearest neighbour: orthogonal neighbours sharing an edge and diagonal neighbours sharing only a corner.Networks can be better represented with a hexagonal grid. The next two images show the London Tube network as a rectangular grid, sometimes called a Manhatten grid, as well as a hexagonal grid. The colours represent the different tube lines.Being able to connect to diagonal neighbours improves the representation of the network in a hexagonal grid.There are numerous blog posts which have pointed out the benefits of different types of grids. This post would not have been possible without the work and dedication of others. I want to point to this excellent gis.stackexchange post as well as this blog post by Matt Strimas-Mackey. Matt does some great work with R and highlights the square grid’s benefits of orthogonal simplicity and computational ease. With this in mind:We choose to create hex tiles in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard."
    },{
      "title": "Bunnings first UK opening: An Aussie sausage sizzle in the snow",
      "date": "Tue Feb 21 2017 11:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2017-02-21-bunnings-first-uk-opening-an-aussie-sausage-sizzle-in-the-snow/",
      "excerpt": "The shake up of the UK DIY sector recently got underway in St Albans with the opening of the first UK Bunnings.",
      "content": "It’s certainly a world away from its Homebase predecessor. This feels like a ‘real’ DIY store. Where Homebase ventured increasingly into soft furnishings and concession space Bunnings is all about ‘proper’ DIY – power tools, timber, paint, building supplies.Like its rival B&Q, Bunnings aims to serve both the home DIYer and the professional trade. The amateur market looks well served with the improved range, experienced staff on hand for advice and the family appeal of the new stores – DIY workshops, children’s play area, café and the all important Aussie import of the sausage sizzle.I think we have more to see in the trade area. Australian Bunnings stores have dedicated trade counters and timber yards. These are missing in the first UK Bunnings, but probably reflect the smaller size of the average Homebase compared to Bunnings typical footprint in Australia.This will be a fascinating story to watch unfold. Not least because it’s recently played out in Australia where Masters (a Woolworths/Lowes partnership) tried and failed to take on the DIY top dog, Bunnings, recently closing all 63 stores.There are certainly parallels between the Bunnings UK entry and the Masters disaster in Australia. A very strong incumbent player, or players if we include Wickes in the equation here in the UK, and importing DIY retail knowledge from the opposite hemisphere – US company Lowes bought the DIY experience to the partnership with local Australian supermarket chain Woolworths.A key difference is that Bunnings has bought a ready made estate here in the UK, to which there are obvious pros and cons. The Homebase units are smaller than Bunnings would have back home, there’s a mix of quality and a south east bias, but in the space constrained UK market there’s a lot to be said for having a base to get established. It allows Bunnings to get to scale quickly, which Masters, with organic growth, did not.But let’s not make the mistake of thinking Bunnings Australia is only big, boxes in sprawling suburbs. More recent openings include a two level store in inner urban Melbourne.This is one to watch."
    },{
      "title": "Smiles and Giggles = Smiggle",
      "date": "Mon Feb 06 2017 11:08:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2017-02-06-smiles-and-giggles-smiggle/",
      "excerpt": "We’re excited to post our first guest blog. Angela shares her take on one of the new retailers to hit the UK…",
      "content": "It’s a dark, dreary January morning. Having a few child free hours, allows me to browse the sales in peace and being early the shopping precinct is quiet. Doing the usual Boots, Paperchase, and naturally Waterstones, there is one shop that I’m interested to check out. It’s new and only opened here in November. Having heard about the chain Smiggle and most especially the rumours of how pricey it is, I was keen to go and find out for myself. Smiggle – where a smile meets a giggle. This is their philosophy and it seems to be working for them. This Australian based retail store has hit the UK shores with a bang and John Cheston is the man overseeing the UK expansion.Smiggle can be spotted a mile off. It’s clean, bright shop face and catchy branding is hard to miss therefore pulling the customer in. Fully knowing that my 5 year old daughter may go bananas in a shop like this, leaving her at home is wise if I don’t want to part with too much hard earned cash straight after Christmas. This shop certainly can see the parent coming by appealing to tweenagers the world over.In all honesty, one doesn’t need a five year old to spend money, but it can be easier to limit when alone. Naturally, I am drawn to the sale section and have a good browse through – smelly erasers, hand warmers, notebooks, a box of pranks and those glitter lava lamp that were really popular during the nineties are all there on display tempting me to get my present drawer stocked up. Plus in the sale you’re getting a bargain right? Maybe.This shop is undoubtedly fun. A cross between Paperchase and Claire’s Accessories it caters for both genders wanting spanking new stationary for the new school term. There’s no doubt that the Back to School campaign that hits every summer will bring in much revenue for the company, but my advice would be to start saving your pennies now. Cheap, this shop is not, I don’t relish the thought of spending £18 on a pencil case. That could be because I’m a Yorkshire girl at heart who prefers to get more for her money.Having said all that, there are some items that I would be prepared to part with my cash for. For example, an activity kit where your little one can design her own pencil case. It has everything you need and all for the price of £11.50. That would make a nice present. Equally, the ‘Glow Glider’, costing a reasonable £5, is a frisbee type contraption that lights up when thrown. Money well spent, a nice little holiday treat perhaps? The shop does cater for boys too – the glider comes in pink and blue and there are many more green and blues with boyish branding. Clearly Smiggle want to cater for boys and girls, there’s no attempt to break the gender divide here.I’ll be honest, money was spent. Only sale items mind and I do have a niece’s birthday just around the corner, so it served it’s purpose. I wanted to buy more, indulge the stationary fetish I have, but managed to resist. Clearly I’ve been pulled in and the Smiggle brand has worked it’s magic. Congratulations Smiggle on your success and there’s no doubt that it will continue to be a hit."
    },{
      "title": "Happy New Year!",
      "date": "Sun Jan 08 2017 11:10:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2017-01-08-happy-new-year/",
      "excerpt": "So we have survived our first work week of 2017 – even if it was only 4 days.",
      "content": "What a year we have in store; the feel good experience we are promised from the film La La Land, the grinding Brexit negotiations and the inauguration of Donald Trump – from the good to the bad to the ugly.Geolytix has an exciting start to the year with the welcoming of our newest team member, Donna. We are all incredibly excited to dive into the new year and continue to bring innovative ideas to our clients whether it’s for network strategy, location planning, omni-channel retailing or spatial modelling.Title Image: Photo by Brigitte Tohm on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "The Dining Club – IKEA",
      "date": "Thu Nov 10 2016 11:15:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2016-11-10-the-dining-club-ikea/",
      "excerpt": "“It doesn’t matter what you make, it’s the people that are the best ingredients.”",
      "content": "This was the slogan for the IKEA pop-up café and store in Shoreditch, London which opened for 15 days during September.The pop-up offered a number of features including hosting your own dinner party with 20 guests in The Dining Club and attending interactive master classes in the ‘Food for Thought’ workshop area. All this and a store to buy a range of homeware goodies that you tell yourself you need and you’re not sure how you ever lived without, use it once and lose it to the back of the cupboard and a café to enjoy the much loved Swedish meatballs and indulge in a piece of the ever popular Daim cake.THE DINING CLUBThe Dining Club enabled customers to ‘do it yourself’ and become head chef to host a dinner party for 20 friends and family – this was free – you just had to apply. This was available for brunch, lunch or dinner bookings. The DIY dining reflects the DIY emphasis of the classic IKEA purchases. The idea of this was to encourage people to go back to cooking and eating together. Lifestyles nowadays have become convenience and on-the-go style eating, 21st century busyness has pushed the UK further away from the European mainland ideals. In countries such as France and Spain locals enjoy meals over hours, it’s an event in itself, the activity and focus is purely cooking and eating. In Sweden (the home of IKEA) the Swedes have special days celebrating food (Kanelbullens dag on 4th October, våfflors on 25th March and Gustav Adolfs-bakelse on 6th November) – they certainly have a sweet tooth. Whereas although the UK has never mirrored the customs of the mainland we have strayed even further from evening meals enjoyed together with friends and family. I think IKEA are highlighting a fantastic point with this concept, we need to slow life down and appreciate the small daily tasks. Although having someone else do the washing up for you at The Dining Club does mask the downsides of hosting a dinner party.FOOD FOR THOUGHTWorkshops and masterclasses were run every day with a range of hosts including Great British Bake Off winner Edd Kimber. I attended a workshop hosted by Pixie Turner, a plantbased/veggie food blogger and social media star which was called ‘1 ingredient 4 ways’. Pixie showed us 4 veggie recipes all using butternut squash. All 4 were cooked and tasted by the attendees within an hour. She showed us the ease of creating these meals which were all suitable for 4 dining and encouraged the use of products across the multiple dishes to reduce food waste. They were interesting and absolutely delicious recipes with ingredients that can be bought from a standard supermarket and this demonstrated how easy it is to create fresh cooking on a budget and in a realistic time frame, which anyone could recreate after work. There really is no excuse, just laziness.SHOWROOMOf course since the main focus was on the actual cooking there was a kitchen showroom and a shop with homewares available for purchase, after all if we are going to start cooking more at home then we need to have the utensils. This was the quietest area of the pop-up while I was there. There was a virtual reality kitchen you could try your hand at, of course the main focus is encourage the interaction of people with each other during meals by cooking and eating together you’ve clearly got to have a techy gadget to remind us we are in the 21st century.SUSTAINABILITYSustainability was definitely the joint emphasis of the pop-up. The famous meatballs were available in the café but there were also veggie balls with information about them on every table – “the carbon footprint from producing the Veggie ball is about twenty times smaller than the carbon footprint from the traditional meatball. It’s a tasty meal that leaves you with a good conscience.” The arguments in favour of eating less meat are well known in terms of land and water usage as well as the adverse effect of eating too much meat on human health. One of their stated aims is “take action in more sustainable food by enabling and encouraging a more balanced diet.” IKEA as a company has a number of other aims and promotes the idea of many small actions making a big difference, examples are sustainable cotton production and a switch the LED lighting. They have installed solar panels on their buildings and run over 300 wind turbines.TAKE OUTSThis IKEA is a far cry from the warehouse store we all know, probably the only store that has been cited on divorce papers, the store you lose a full day at the weekend to as you long to escape and you can witness countless arguments going on in cars in the surround roads of any IKEA. I had a great evening out at this pop-up store and café, I feel inspired to cook and make an event of my meals. If IKEA can promote and popularise the dinner party with this concept then maybe the saying was right all along; staying in really is the new going out."
    },{
      "title": "Retail Points Update - October 2016",
      "date": "Wed Oct 19 2016 11:18:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2016-10-19-retail-points-update/",
      "excerpt": "Since the last release of Retail Points the Netto and Sainsburys joint venture trial has ended resulting in closure of all 16 stores.",
      "content": "Just two years after the discount retailer comeback was launched, all stores were closed in August of this year. That wasn’t the only failed brand this year, after the Morrisons M Locals were sold off to a private equity firm fronted by Mike Greene in 2015 and rebranded as My Local, it was announced in June that all stores would be closed by 1st July of this year. Tricky times in the world of supermarket retail continue.Along with those major announcements of brand disappearance the latest Retail Points has also captured the general openings and closings of stores. Including the only Waitrose in Leeds which closed for trading on 13th September, the continued growth of Aldi who announced they would be opening 58 stores from throughout this year to October 2017, and the ever changing fascia of certain supermarket buildings, the jinx of the old Somerfield’s, which then became Co-ops and now Budgens – 36 of these original Somerfield’s are changing their fascia for the third time in eight years. The reversal has also happened with Co-op purchasing 15 Budgens stores. It’s hard to keep up but we try our best and hope this is reflected in the latest Retail Points which can be downloaded here.As always please get in touch with any missing stores or changes in brands you may discover in the data despite due care taken when updating this file. We are always interested to know how people are using this resource so please feel free to get in touch to share your use cases."
    },{
      "title": "FOSS4G 2016 – Bonn",
      "date": "Tue Aug 30 2016 11:09:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2016-08-30-foss4g-2016-bonn/",
      "excerpt": "Last week Geolytix touched down in Bonn for the 2016 FOSS4G. ",
      "content": "Last week Geolytix touched down in Bonn for the 2016 FOSS4G. While Blair and Christoph listened to the business to business session and Dennis extended his skills knowledge at some of the various workshops, I took to opportunity to explore Bonn before the conference started in full swing on the Wednesday.It was hard to tell if I’d left the UK cities behind as I strolled along the city centre streets. Between Mango, L’Occitane, H&M, Office, McDonalds, Starbucks, Pandora, Lush, Jack Jones, Claire’s, Vera Moda, Bose, O2, Vodafone, Foot Locker, T K Maxx, G Star Raw, Pizza Hut and the dark doorway of Hollister. Even the Galeria Kaufhof could be mistaken for John Lewis once inside. It was hard to tell. But then I saw that unforgettable sign that confirmed I was on mainland Europe, C&A.I visited Rewe to compare the supermarket ethos here vs UK. Rewe is a supermarket chain with over 3,000 stores in Germany, the store I visited was about 20,000 sq ft. The layout and products seemed like a combination of the leading supermarkets back in Great Britain. The fresh salad bar as you enter through the fruit and veg section past the fridges and their contents ending in the alcohol and freezer zones. This is a central supermarket with the ability to do a full trolley shop and had 3 tills and 3 self-checkout tills, a contrast to the number I’d say would be needed to run a supermarket back home. But with German efficiency and shopping styles it is plenty from what I saw.We called into the Aldi near where we were staying one morning, there is not much to report as it’s very similar to the ones in the UK except the bakery department had fresh products and an exciting bread slicing contraption to allow optimum bread thickness.The core conference ran Wednesday to Friday. FOSS4G is Free and Open Source Software for Geospatial. It is an annual global conference which started in 2006. This is a great opportunity for networking, discovering what’s new in open source software and discussing current and future trends in data and possible solutions useful across a variety of sectors. There was a mix of workshops, presentations and socialising too. A fantastic evening was had at the gala dinner on a boat down the river Rhine.Bonn is a beautiful city and a great location to host the 2016 FOSS4G conference in the former parliament building. For anyone interested in this sector, I would highly recommend attending either the global conference or alternatively the smaller European/UK conference at least once. Next years will be in August in Boston."
    },{
      "title": "Veggie Pret – Not just for Veggie’s",
      "date": "Thu Jul 14 2016 11:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2016-07-14-veggie-pret-its-all-about-the-review/",
      "excerpt": "During the month of June Pret A Manger opened a pop-up vegetarian store – not a ‘new concept store’, they acknowledged. ",
      "content": "This Veggie Pret was a fun way to get feedback and comments. The root of this (dare I say it) ‘concept’ is to act as inspiration for more innovation at Pret for the future and create tastier vegetarian food that is a tempting alternative for customers.The CEO of Pret A Manger, Clive Schlee, announced this year that, “sales of our vegetarian sandwiches and salads have grown 12.5% in the last six months.” This has stimulated Pret A Manger to consider the idea of opening a vegetarian only shop.Going GreenFrom the sign on the outside to the plastic cutlery inside Pret have gone out of their way to clearly distinguish this Pret as a vegetarian haven, green is the colour. Strikingly different to the standard red Pret. (Does red mean meat?)In this day and age why does it need to be stressed that a restaurant or store is veggie only? I can see from a vegetarian’s point of view it’s good to be guaranteed that the product through from preparation to consumption is meat-free and that pre made veggie meals are becoming more interesting and varied. But surely the ‘must eat meat with every meal’ is becoming a more rare demand. The increase in awareness and recipes with falafel and halloumi are a driving force of the veggie trend. Why can there not be a happy medium of vegetarian delights and meaty meals under one roof? Rather than separation which could be perceived as a choice of either veggie or meat, what about the in between? In a regular Pret why not have samples available of the vegetarian alternatives in an attempt to convert even the Chicken Caesar and Bacon baguette lover or meat free Mondays which are popping up more regularly in restaurants across the country?A Happy CompromiseGrowing food for the world’s ever increasing population is causing an increase of greenhouse gas emissions which cause global warming. Vegetarianism could cut food-related emission by 63%. I’m not here to preach, and a lot of us love a ‘cheeky’ Nando’s and wouldn’t be willing to give this up, I eat meat but I also eat a considerable number of vegetarian meals. I’m not so naïve as to think vegetarianism would solve all issues and farming is a considerable industry sector in the UK and we need to support that otherwise there are other knock on effects. But if we all replaced a few meals a week where we would normally have meat with a veggie inspired dish this could counteract the effect of the growing global population and be a happy medium with a healthy lifestyle.Hit the Spot or Lost the PlotIn the trial store was a board you could leave a marker and your comment card on either ‘Hit the Spot’ or ‘Lost the Plot’. The markers were heavily dominating the ‘Hit the Spot’ half, I can’t help but feel this is not that much of a surprise, would you go into a vegetarian only restaurant if you weren’t open to vegetarian meals.While I was in there on a Wednesday morning, there was a constant stream of customers purchasing their coffee fix, this doesn’t matters whether you drink it in a veggie Pret ‘green cup’ or a traditional Pret ‘red cup’, does the coffee drinker really notice, is it just perhaps a part of a convenient daily routine. There was a breadth of choice that would peak anyone’s intrigue; from dairy-free bircher muesli and veggie brioche (which was my selected item) for breakfast to beets, squash & feta superbowl, courgetti veggie pot and falafel mezze for lunch. Not forgetting the sweet treats of vegan coconut yoghurt pot and raw fruity seed bar, and vegetarian carrot cake, cookies and muffins to name a few of the range on offer. There really is something for everyone, as they said it’s not just for veggies.AwarenessHealthy eating, homemade scratch cooking and celebrities (for example Fearne Cotton who just released a cook book) crossing over as chefs and vice versa we are, even if unknowingly, become more aware of food and what we are eating. In a society that is becoming used to consuming smoothies, kale and quinoa we should be ready for this notion of less meals with meat. The metropolitan aura of London makes it the most willing of anywhere in the UK to be delivered with an array of alternative cuisines and new trends. Having been in Los Angeles two months ago I wonder if that way of conscientious eating and healthy lifestyle with a vegetarian awareness is coming across the pond to stay. Will it filter outside London?Veggie PretI think what Pret has instigated is a great thing and a move in the right direction of where food trends seem to be heading, it would be interesting to hear feedback and reviews they received during June and how Pret will incorporate these from now on. Will a Veggie Pret A Manger open permanently? Or will they take my ReView of uniting vegetarianism and meat eaters under the same roof? Watch this space."
    },{
      "title": "Location Planning and Data Analytics firm Geolytix win Queen’s Award for Enterprise",
      "date": "Fri Jul 01 2016 11:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2016-07-01-data-analytics-firm-geolytix-win-queens-award-for-enterprise/",
      "excerpt": "London-based Geolytix have today won a Queen’s Award for Enterprise for creating innovative spatial algorithms that help retailers profitably attract and serve customers in a complex multi-channel world.",
      "content": "Despite the massive shift to online, physical stores (for now at least) remain the bedrock of commerce. Where to open shops, and how their location and layout support the needs of both in-store and digital customers, are questions that the world’s largest retailers are now tackling from a brand new perspective. Geolytix work with over 20 of the UK’s largest, most forward-thinking, retailers. We help them wisely invest billions of pounds a year in real estate and technology. We use vast amounts of open data, and our customer’s proprietary data. These data are used by Geolytix data scientists to create novel algorithms that help businesses understand how and where consumers choose to shop in-store and digitally. Our customers apply these algorithms to hypothetical futures involving new locations, evolving customer demands and structural market changes. These predictions can then be used to direct the huge capital investments required to develop new stores, new channels and new integrations of the physical and digital shopping experience.Quotes“We’re delighted to receive a Queen’s Award. We thank all our customers who have trusted us to help solve their location and digital planning issues. We also thank the open data movement for releasing the fabulous data that helps fuel these innovative solutions.” Blair Freebairn, CEO and founder, Geolytix“The Geolytix team were able to provide a bespoke solution that worked for us… they went the extra mile and worked closely with us resulting in a significant improvement in efficiency, allowing multiple multi-channel strategy scenarios to be reviewed” Michael Flood, Strategic Customer Analysis Manager, John Lewis“Geolytix have transformed our location planning capability and have been fundamental in supporting our goal of unlocking opportunities for growth, optimising our ever changing retail network and further influencing channel strategies. They have absolutely enabled us to make better decisions where location matters.” Paul Clarke, Retail Planning Manager, Camelot“What we experienced surpassed our high expectations. Geolytix have proved to be an excellent partner to us as we extend our portfolio planning capability.” Simon Prinn, Senior Retail Analytics Manager, BootsGeolytix BackgroundFounded in 2012 by Blair Freebairn, currently 12 employees, based in King’s Cross London. 100% employee owned. Geolytix helps businesses make better decisions where location matters. We do this by combining our customer’s data with open data, and Geolytix’s own data and algorithms. This is done using software we have written ourselves. Our tools are typically deployed within applications we have also written ourselves. Geolytix work with many blue-chip UK retailers including ASDA, Boots, TSB, Camelot, Sainsbury’s, the Post Office, John Lewis and Barclays Bank. These UK businesses are creating new profitable location strategies across their physical and digital interactions with customers. We’re delighted that Geolytix’s innovations are helping enable our customers’ innovations."
    },{
      "title": "Open Supermarkets now known as Retail Points",
      "date": "Tue Apr 05 2016 10:58:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2016-04-05-open-supermarkets-now-known-retail-points-version-7/",
      "excerpt": "Today sees the release of the latest instalment of Open Supermarkets, we have now renamed this Retail Points.",
      "content": "There have been changes in the UK supermarket world since the last release with the most notable one being:Morrisons selling their M Locals to Mike Green which have now been rebranded My LocalAlong with the incorporation of openings and closings across the retailers over a few months we have also expanded our freezer store fascias. After Iceland’s were included in the September release we have now included Farmfoods, Fulton Foods and Heron.Another new feature to the April release is a size band for each store, this is based on a four way classification.A – Less than 3,013 ft² (280 m²)C-Store with unlimited Sunday hours in England and Wales.B – 3,013 to 15,069 ft² (280 m² to 1,400 m²)Mid-sized grocer as defined by the CMA. Restricted Sunday hours, typically the large majority is food.C – 15,069 to 30,138 ft² (1,400 to 2,800 m²)Large supermarkets as defined by the CMA. Typical ‘large’ supermarket with GM and fashion offer.D – 30,138+ ft² (2,800+ m²)Also large as classified by the CMA. This is a Geolytix arbitrary banding to equate roughly to a hypermarket, typically with significant clothing and GM departments and large free car park.If you have any comments or contributions then as always please get in touch.The data and supporting documentation can be downloaded here.Title Image: Photo by Gaelle Marcel on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Samantha’s Week One – Back to Maps…",
      "date": "Wed Oct 14 2015 10:54:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2015-10-14-samanthas-week-one-back-to-maps/",
      "excerpt": "It’s been a buzz so far! I’ve been reminded of the power of data and a map together. Once combined questions that seemed unanswerable are suddenly simple. ",
      "content": "Whole new possibilities are opened up. I’ve seen the lightbulb go on as customers unfamiliar with spatial analysis have a whole new world of possibilities opened up to them. And for those that know the power of spatial analysis there is the joy of discovering the fantastic data that Geolytix have on offer.Having spent years on the inside of major retailers in the UK and Australia it’s been refreshing to see how this small Business has the agility to create new and interesting ways of showing data and modelling it. There is a real focus on ‘doing it right’ which filters through the data, models and approach to helping customers. Working with customers is definitely seen as a partnership here and across the team there is a real passion to excel in everything we do.What I’m really excited about is how we bring spatial analytics to a broader market. The big food retailers have long understood its power in making the right strategic and investment decisions. But what could we do for other sectors – leisure, restaurants, healthcare, banking, insurance, and any website with a geographic element.And how about doing this outside the UK? How convenient for pan-european and global operators to have data that all fits together! I’ve just seen data that knits together the latest census findings across Europe. What an easy way to get generate insight and support pan-European strategies.So I will sum up my first (ever) blog with a sense of being a square peg in a square hole (a good start!), thrilled with the capability of the team and very excited about what we can achieve in the future.Samantha has shaped new space expansion in Coles Australia and Sainsburys and joins Geolytix as Commercial Director."
    },{
      "title": "Iceland Food Warehouse – Old Kent Road",
      "date": "Wed Sep 23 2015 10:52:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2015-09-23-iceland-food-warehouse-old-kent-road/",
      "excerpt": "It has been a hot topic in the industry for a while that the discounters are continuing to grow in popularity and share of market spend.",
      "content": "Iceland is looking to take advantage of the same customer base. To enable them to compete Iceland needs to shift towards ranging more than frozen foods, and their new ‘food warehouse’ format does just this.The bus journey down from the office to Old Kent Road was an adventure in its own right. Eventually I reached my stop and Iceland’s new venture was before me. On entering the store, the warehouse style is very evident, but it brings little life and soul to the shopping experience and the music playing does little to lighten the atmosphere. The timing of the visit – a weekday early morning – also meant the store had just a handful of customers.The warehouse allows a big open spacious store with three long double sided freezers which dominate the centre. I’ve never seen so many different varieties of frozen breaded chicken! Fresh fruit and veg, along with refrigerated staples and a bakery section reinforce the fresh food concept. In the corner by the bakery section there is even a small display of white goods – three fridges and freezers available for purchase. On the opposite side of the store between the crisps and toiletries, you can find further electrical goods. These range from a purifier to a microwave and a novelty Budweiser fridge. Continuing with the somewhat muddled layout, there is a basket between homeware and toilet rolls offering steam mops and stationary goods. Iceland has come up with an alternative to the well known ‘middle aisle’, so popular in the major discount supermarkets, and has spread the miscellaneous merchandise across the whole store.I’m not a regular Iceland shopper and personally wouldn’t have considered it to be a supermarket in the mix against the obvious competition, however after experiencing this concept I cannot see why it shouldn’t compete with the discounters. It will be hard to escape the brand reputation of Iceland-frozen goods, but it does give Iceland customers a reason to shop more often.The next Food Warehouse in the Iceland chain opens in Doncaster on 29th September, I’ll visit and carry out a price comparison between it and the discounters as this will be key in determining its success."
    },{
      "title": "Open Supermarkets – Now including Co-op Societies and Iceland",
      "date": "Tue Sep 15 2015 10:46:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2015-09-15-open-supermarkets-now-including-co-op-societies-and-iceland/",
      "excerpt": "With every release of the open supermarkets Geolytix aim to improve and build on the previous version.",
      "content": "The long awaited addition of the rest of the Co-operative societies has been a focus, along with adding in Iceland stores as the latest retailer in the database.The highlights of the version 6 open supermarkets release are:790 Iceland stores1,125 Co-operative societiesFinal 6 Tesco Homeplus closures41 stores addedWe added The Co-operative Group stores into the database earlier in the year, and knew it was vital for us to capture the other societies to make it a complete dataset. With so many stores under different co-operative bodies this took time and effort but we are delighted to have added these in now.This shows a breakdown and number of stores by Co-operative Society in the database:This is a great extension to the open supermarkets database. Amongst the 41 added stores is a mix of new stores and the odd stores we were missing in previous versions – striving to keep this as an up to date and accurate as possible. After 6 of the 12 Tesco Homeplus stores were closed and captured in the previous version, now the final 6 remaining stores have been closed and removed from the database.We have also added a new column ‘OpenDate’, this currently has a very small proportion of stores attributed, but this is a column we will now start to update for every release.As always please get in touch if you can contribute any missing stores to the open supermarkets and if you have suggestions for other retailer additions.The data and supporting documentation can be downloaded from here."
    },{
      "title": "The air is better up here – Trampoline parks",
      "date": "Wed Sep 09 2015 10:42:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2015-09-09-the-air-is-better-up-here-trampoline-parks/",
      "excerpt": "Trampoline parks seem to be taking the UK by storm, they are opening all over. So Geolytix decided to have a team afternoon at Oxygen Free Jumping in Acton.",
      "content": "Our 3pm weekday session was fully booked up with 132 fellow jumpers. Whilst putting on our fetching yellow trampoline socks we soon realised we were raising the average age quite considerably. There were a few accompanying adults bouncing along with their children, but the group was dominated by teens and younger. While the majority of adults sat in the café looking out from the viewing platform, we had our safety briefing video and were ready to get on a trampoline.There are different areas in the room. One being dodgeball arena, where team Geolytix soon got caught out by the competitive kids we faced. The ‘gladiator-style jump battle to the death by bowling-ball sized projectile made of foam’ tagline must be more relevant to the adult oriented evening sessions. A trampoline jump up leading to an airbag enabled free jumping and general shape throwing. Getting myself off the airbag post somersault was the hardest part!The far corner had a foam pit allowing Blair and Simon to live out the gladiator event, Duel. The short fall into the blue foam batons would not raise the adrenaline of Wolf and Lightning. A slack line confirmed my terrible balancing skills. Christoph dominated the horizontal ladder – we had plenty of opportunity to attempt this as it was too tall for most our fellow jumpers to reach.The other dimly lit corner had a large area of trampolines to jump between and bounce off the wall trampolines. Dennis had the side jump down.The professional trampoline area was downstairs – we steered clear…After 15 minutes of the 1 hour session I was exhausted, luckily there was space to stand around and time to catch my breath.It was a great afternoon, great for fitness (they also run fitness classes) and genuinely a fun hour. I would recommend it to families as a great activity to occupy kids. The slight fear of landing on a small child made me think it may be good for adults to go to later sessions, which would also allow a more fierce game of dodgeball.Small lockers are available for jumpers, this area is both in the entrance and exit and not ideal for putting shoes on without bumping into others.We arrived by tube as it’s just a short walk to the Acton site, but did notice the car park isn’t too generous and could cause issues given the session overlaps as you’re advised you arrive 30 minutes before your allotted time slot.It was a good team outing and we only ached for 2 days after.Thanks to Jasmin for being the photographer."
    },{
      "title": "Good Evenings at Pret a Manger",
      "date": "Fri Aug 28 2015 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2015-08-28-good-evenings-at-pret-a-manger/",
      "excerpt": "In April of this year when Pret a Manger on The Strand introduced Good Evenings it went against the definition of their name.",
      "content": "In April of this year when Pret a Manger on The Strand introduced Good Evenings it went against the definition of their name. No longer ready to eat but instead a more formal dining experience. As soon as we spotted Prosecco on the menu Jasmin and I didn’t need another reason to try it out.A friendly Maitre D’ greeted us at the door and explained the process, seated us with menus and once decided we order and pay at the till. Although the pre-prepared sandwiches and juices are still visible in the fridges for customers wanting to pop in, this is not a distraction from the dining experience. Low level lighting, candles and pre-set tables create an evening ambience.The menu had a mix of sandwiches served with side salad transforming them into a more substantial meal alongside heartier dishes such as mac and cheese and BBQ pulled pork. Three white, three red wines, three bottled beers and a prosecco choice made up the alcoholic options. Prosecco is only available by the bottle, slightly inconvenient and losing out on potential sales for solo customers; we reluctantly forced ourselves through a bottle, in the spirit of research of course.The tasty food is cooked to order, fresh, ready quickly and served by friendly, willing staff. We enjoyed the relaxed dining experience, especially as it was mid week.Evenings at Pret a Manger is a great idea, maximising the pay back on daily overheads by opening longer hours and attracting a mixture of clientele. There is still the convenience factor for anyone in a rush, it guarantees theatre goers a quick dinner or friends a relaxed evening social. Paying when ordering also removes any worry for customers who are on a timetable for the theatre or cinema which can spoil a meal.Further roll out of Good Evenings could benefit locations with fewer restaurants, but the sheer volumes of all types of footfall London has to offer promise a large pool of potential customers.The Eating Out markets are merging at one end of the spectrum with Waitrose offering wine & deli bars and grazing areas and Tesco implanting Harris and Hoole and Giraffe. Pret a Manger is throwing itself into the mix by filling the gap between Food To Go and Restaurants."
    },{
      "title": "Retail Places – 2015 Update",
      "date": "Thu Jul 16 2015 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2015-07-16-retail-places-new-release-for-2015/",
      "excerpt": "If you need a product that provides an accurate retail background to support your decision making, this is it.",
      "content": "Retail Places covers over 20,000 areas across the UK and captures any retail parades where there are at least 3 units. It provides town centre classifications with a strength score (a proxy for weekly shopping spend) and all shopping centres, classified with estimated number of units. This year we’ve included a ‘Classy Brassy’ score to differentiate the ‘Marlows’ and ‘Wilmslows’.And if that’s not enough, there is a 10m pitch score to help you understand the micro locations of your estate or potential sites.Our customers have tested our 2015 release and tell us it’s the best out there for profiling, describing and modelling UK Retail.“Retail Places is key in understanding the relative strength of Retail areas across the UK; ranging from major High Streets and Shopping Centres down to small parades of local shops. An excellent supporting tool when evaluating the geography of new space customer catchments, helping to establish how certain groups of population might gravitate towards particular retail areas dependent on their relative strength” Stacey Thornborough, Market Insight Senior Manager, ASDAWhilst it’s great for helping with big investment decisions, it’s also great for coming up with retail trivia facts. How well do you know your retail?What is the densest fast food retail place in the UK?What is the largest town centre without a Pizza Express?What is the smallest town centre with a Next?Which town centre has the highest number of shopping centres?Scroll down for the answers!New for 2015We’ve been beavering away this year on lots of improvements……Shopping CentresThe 772 shopping centres now exist as a separate dataset in the retail places pack. This covers all shopping centres from the latest 120 ‘destinations’ through to the classic 80’s and 90’s covered centres down to the historical arcades and the latest urban entertainment centres.Railway StationsTo address the expanding travel retail sector, 105 of the busiest railway stations have now been classified as a retail place in their own right. Network rail figures alongside footfall data show that millions of people are entering stations without the purpose of boarding a train. Retailers are reporting increases in sales in their station stores which exceed those of high street stores.Service Areas250 road services areas have also been newly classified as retail places.Scoring and AttributionOver ten different sources of retail data have been combined to overhaul how we score, weight and profile centres. This has been achieved using a mix of increasing amounts of open data relating to retail sites and the generosity of some of our existing customers allowing us to use their internal store and competitor database.Each centre has been given:An estimated count of retail units broken down into food/beverage units, financial services, services retailOverall ‘strength’ score, as a proxy for weekly shopping spendFour way classification that make up the retail place – Convenience, comparison, food/beverage/leisure, ServiceA Classy to Brassy index indicating aspirational brands vs discountersClassification‘Planned’ retail has gone through significant changes in the updated version. ‘Retail Parks’ have been split into Shopping Parks, Retail Parks and Leisure Parks. A new retail place type of ‘planned urban centre’ has been created to capture single destinations with shared parking and covered retail in the same location.Retail Place BuildingsThanks to Ordnance Survey releasing their building outlines as open data, our polygons are more accurate and comprehensive.Retail Places PitchPitch scores is a 10 metre grid structure displaying the varying retail opportunities within retail places through the visualisation of hot spots and gaps within the top 2,413 retail places. Accuracy of the pitch estimates have been considerably improved by using richer input data including a large number of floor space estimates.Feedback from our users as well as current trends in retail dynamic form the basis of these enhancements and ensures this popular data continues to be the best available. You can download our retail places open data which consists of the top 350 towns from 2012. This will give you a taste of the potential our full retail places pack could offer you and your business. Enjoy!AnswersRoath, Cardiff with a staggering 46 units within ~500mDoncaster (nearest one in the Doncaster Dome Leisure Park, over a mile from the centre)LeatherheadLeeds – 7: Trinity, Merrian, St Johns, Victoria Quarter, The Core, The Light, Corn ExchangeTitle Image: Photo by Carl Raw on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "Shop in shop: The Google Shop",
      "date": "Tue Jun 09 2015 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2015-06-09-shop-in-shop-the-google-shop/",
      "excerpt": "If you go down to Tottenham Court Road today you’re sure of a big surprise. Those familiar Google colours have come down to earth at the Currys PC World store.",
      "content": "The experience on offer isn’t quite as exciting as the quotes I had read before my visit made out. Yes the offer of playing with the hardware is great and was novelty when Apple introduced it, but now as an experience for the jaded technophile it falls a little short of amazing. That’s not to say we didn’t have fun flying around the interactive Google Earth maps on the Portal, the option of watching Google Play movies and YouTube in the Chromecast Pod and reworking the Google sign into Geolytix.You’ve got to view to revenueWhatever Google’s business plan is its simple maths: more views more revenues. Advertising sustains the whole process and to keep people choosing Google as their number one search engine is the challenge. A few square metres of floor space in a well-established retail outlet will raise the profile a little and could be a cost effective taster for the wider market. If successful there is scope to expand to other Currys PC World stores (next is Fulham and Thurrock) but that relies on effective symbiosis between the two concerns.Who stands to gain?Are we going to Currys PC World to visit The Google Shop or is Google hoping customers will be drawn to their visual displays while already shopping. With ever increasing competition in search engines (especially in India and China) even a ‘household name’ cannot be complacent. Customers in central London may enjoy playing with the software and Google will hope their logo will be firmly imprinted on their retinas as they leave.If you’re keen on getting even more hands on then the store hosts regular classes and events including children being able to enrol in ‘Virtual Space Camps’ to acquire basic coding skills although information on these sessions is hard to come by.For a fun hour away from the office and if you’re in the area drop in for a doodle on the wall or a fly through the world at The Google Shop. You might even be lucky and get a free tote bag and plastic wallet for your oyster card."
    },{
      "title": "Open Supermarkets Locations",
      "date": "Mon May 18 2015 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2015-05-18-spring-treat-open-supermarkets-version-5/",
      "excerpt": "The latest updated open supermarkets is now available. A total of 349 stores have been added since the previous release.\n\nThis is a mixture of new stores and capturing missing stores from the dataset.\n\nHighlights of the release:\n\n * 43 Tesco closures\n * 10 Morrison closures\n * 15 new Asda PFS\n * 349 stores added\n\nIn January Tesco announced plans to close 43 stores through March and April to cut costs. These were comprised of 18 Express, 12 Metro, 7 Superstores and 6 Homeplus. Earlier this week i",
      "content": "The latest updated open supermarkets is now available. A total of 349 stores have been added since the previous release.This is a mixture of new stores and capturing missing stores from the dataset.Highlights of the release:43 Tesco closures10 Morrison closures15 new Asda PFS349 stores addedIn January Tesco announced plans to close 43 stores through March and April to cut costs. These were comprised of 18 Express, 12 Metro, 7 Superstores and 6 Homeplus. Earlier this week it was reported that the remaining 6 Homeplus stores would be closed on 27th June.Also in January, Morrisons declared the closure of 10 unprofitable stores. In March, they further informed the public that an additional 23 stores will be closed however the locations of these have not been disclosed yet.On a more positive note for a supermarket chain, in February Asda purchased 15 standalone petrol stations from Rontec LTD. This will expand their operation in London and the South East. These are gradually being opened running through to summer; all locations have been added to the database.As always please get in touch if you can contribute any missing supermarkets so we can continue to update this.The data and supporting documentation can be downloaded from here.Title Image: Photo by Micheile Henderson on Unsplash"
    },{
      "title": "UK Universities",
      "date": "Tue Apr 21 2015 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2015-04-21-uk-universities-released-and-available-now/",
      "excerpt": "With over 2.2 million students currently studying (and spending) in the UK it pays to know where they are.",
      "content": "Many students choose to live in halls of residence which makes these a pocket of potential customers. Students spend on average 7 times more than the general population online which makes it important to focus optimal delivery systems.Details about daily journeys to and from lectures and tutorials can start to be understood once student locations are known. This information is now available in a user friendly and up-to-date format.Geolytix have taken time and care to map all the universities in the UK and have heavily attributed this with further useful and detailed information.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCampus Boundaries:\nBoundary of the campus with address including postcode.\n\n\nAcademic Buildings:\nAlong with the address and postcode of the building the faculty presence in the building with the fields of study.\n\n\nResidential Buildings:\nThe university halls including detail of the type of halls: catered/self- catered, undergraduate/ postgraduate. Capacity of the residential buildings and address including postcode.\n\n\nService Buildings:\nDetailing the type of service within the building allowing the capture of libraries, sports amenities, and religious facilities.\n\n\nPoint of Interest:\n\n\n\nGym:\nLocation and name of gym at the universities.\n\n\nCatering Outlet:\nCafes and restaurants within the universities.\n\n\nAccess Point:\nAccess point to the campus specifying whether it’s pedestrian or vehicular access.\n\n\nReception:\nLocation of the reception.\n\n\nPorters Lodge:\nLocation of the porters lodge (where applicable).\n\n\n\nAlong with the mapping the term dates for each university have been listed which can be effective in understanding weekly sales performance of stores in that area.The universities is the latest enhancement to the Geolytix Education pack, so as well as accessing all this information you will also receive a file with locations all the schools in the UK, and all further education establishments, these both include supplementary attributions.If you would like to purchase this extensive pack of information or have any further questions please get in touch at info@geolytix.co.uk."
    },{
      "title": "Home of Smart Shopping",
      "date": "Sat Jan 24 2015 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2015-01-24-home-of-smart-shopping/",
      "excerpt": "I’m going to be honest I never went to a Netto when they were previously around in the UK during my school years. ",
      "content": "All I knew was that if you were seen with a Netto bag in a school in Doncaster you were beaten up. I had my bag for life at the ready for my first visit to a Netto this time round.The black dog is back, but the new look Netto store is anything but depressing even on a cold January morning.What does the new Netto have in store?The entrance to the Doncaster Netto was flanked by two cheerful green and white striped awnings covering market stall style fruit and veg. These were eye-catching and got my shopping off to a good start. Once inside, there was plenty of space between the aisles and surprisingly high quality display units and shelving. Stack ‘em high and sell ‘em cheap was only half true- popular branded goods were competitively priced.How much choice?Without running dozens of lines of the same product there still seemed to be plenty of goods for a weekly shop. The choice of branded goods throughout the store was unexpected. This is not always the case in other discount outlets. We’re all used to the aisle of orphaned non-food goods and while this was evident in Netto it was displayed in a manor more akin to a high end supermarket and with one or two astonishing bargains.Customer ExperienceThe stress of cashing up was lessened by having a decent sized area for this purpose. The staff were incredibly friendly and commented on the increased in customers most likely due to Lidl nearby being refurbished. The only thing that made this experience feel like one of a discounter was the bill. The quality of the food was certainly not sacrificed to price.Netto was probably ahead of its time in its previous UK presence, but a recession later where discounters are attracting shoppers from all income groups it has announced its return with some very promising credentials."
    },{
      "title": "Open Supermarket Locations – now includes the Co-operative Group",
      "date": "Wed Jan 14 2015 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/open-supermarket-locations-now-includes-the-co-operative-group/",
      "excerpt": "Version 4 of open supermarkets is now available with the following notable additions to its predecessor:",
      "content": "The Co-operative GroupMakroCostcoTesco HomeplusNettoYou might notice not all Co-ops are in this version of the database, about 900 are run by societies other than the Co-operative Group, we have just added tCG stores for now but aim to have the remaining Co-ops ready for the next release. A huge thank you for the Co-operative Group support, without their input the large number of store locations would have meant some long nights for the Geolytix team.We’ve also included the additions and closures we’ve heard about – most notably the 6 closed Morrison Local stores. We aim to capture store openings that have occurred between the Open Supermarket dataset releases.This table shows the count of new additions by fascia since the version 3 release:Anyone familiar with the last releases will immediately notice an improvement in the ID logic; all Geolytix datasets will be prefixed with a 3 digit number unique to that dataset. All GLUIDs within the open supermarkets will consist of 10 digits with the first three being 101 and the version 3 store ID will form the last digits of this new identifier. These GLUIDs are now persistent; an ID will only ever be used once, the same store will keep the same ID release to release. New additions to the dataset will get a unique ID that hasn’t been used before and where a store re-locates the old ID is retired and a new ID is created, but stores that get extended keep the same ID.A quality flag column has been introduced to clarify the locations provided:PQI 1 – Rooftop geocoded by GeolytixPQI 2 – Rooftop geocoded by third partyPQI 3 – Postcode geocodedAs with all data, definitive accuracy can’t be 100% guaranteed, but we try our very best.Geolytix will maintain the open supermarkets data for the foreseeable future with the next release in 3 months (April 2015) and will include any changes in retailers such as those resulting from the recent Tesco and Morrisons announcements.We are excited to announce that we’re in the process of developing a new website that will include interactive maps letting people explore all of our datasets. This is coming in April 2015. Another prominent update will be the publishing of the data as Linked Data.DATA:You can download the Open Supermarkets database and supporting documentation here."
    },{
      "title": "1000th Holland and Barrett store",
      "date": "Wed Oct 29 2014 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2014-10-29-1000th-holland-and-barrett-store/",
      "excerpt": "At a time when high street stores are still at risk of closure following the turbulent economic climate of recent years, what is Holland & Barrett’s secret?",
      "content": "The Trafford Centre, Manchester became home to their 1000th store this month.Must Try NowI’m sure we’ve all done it, read an article or blog about the latest ‘life enhancing’ product, and gone straight down to the shop to buy it. If it’s a health product then it’s likely that Holland & Barrett will stock it. I would guess that many of us are guilty of using this product for about 3 days before we forget about it or move on to the next great idea that should change our lives. I don’t mock this, I love to embrace and trial a new craze;- with 1000 stores under its belt it is clear that Holland and Barrett has a much more substantial customer base. This decade has seen a healthier living trend feature prominently; are people substituting inconvenient special diets for products that aim to produce similar results but that work within people’s lifestyle rather than requiring a complete overhaul?Dates for the DiaryThe increasing popularity of Holland & Barrett ties in with the rising profile of self help and support groups for people with various conditions. February brought us Lactose Intolerance awareness month, April Irritable Bowel Syndrome awareness month and May Coeliac awareness month.What’s On OfferNot only is one thousand stores a milestone but with this accomplishment it also brings a new concept for the chain. On entering the Trafford Centre store, it strikes me how easy it is to forget how many different categories Holland & Barrett stock. There is a tempting display stacked with packets of yoghurt and chocolate covered fruits and nuts merging into a pick and mix section which allows you to sample more variety. And of course the choice of vitamins and minerals is vast (five times as many people now take vitamins and minerals compared with in the 1980s). Deeper into the store you find the beauty section- organic shampoo/conditioner and a full range of beauty products- suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Serious sporting customers are catered for a big choice of sports nutrition products. The tea section with its loose tea out on display available to smell is a great feature to aid customers with their choice of tea purchase. The chilled and freezer section is filled with vegetarian and vegan friendly foods. This is a great store for customers with specific dietary needs as products are all in one place avoiding the need to search through supermarket cabinets. Another new feature is the oils and vinegars on display in large glass dispensers, once your choice is made you can fill a jar or bottle with your selected product. The glassware is reusable making it eco-friendly.A reason to keep your 1p coinsThe ‘penny sale’ (buy certain products and get other products for 1p) is a great way to get customers to try different products. The ‘Rewards for Life’ loyalty card offers 4 points per pound you spend, matching the Boots advantage card. Friendly staff and a fresh and bright impression make it easy to shop. Generous spaces around the tills avoid that crowded feeling when paying and seeing your purchases ringing through on a screen allows you to check them as you go.Holland and Barrett is the perfect choice for people with alternative lifestyles but it is also the place where regular shoppers know they will get good quality supplements no matter how unusual. With access to so many high street stores you can guarantee you will not have to go far to try out that must-have product you read about today."
    },{
      "title": "Open Supermarket Locations",
      "date": "Wed Oct 22 2014 10:33:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2014-10-22-open-supermarket-locations/",
      "excerpt": "A drive or walk round any suburb or city nowadays seems to reveal at least one recently opened supermarket.",
      "content": "Retailers and their different formats are opening up thick and fast, providing customers with choice. With so many new stores do we all know where the competition is? Supermarket information is available and online for everyone to access but not in one file.Owen Boswarva’s article ‘It’s time for the private sector to release some open data too’ encouraged us to crack on with our existing plan to release a list of supermarket locations as open data. There is no commercially sensitive information attached to the stores, just the store name, and an address from the retailers store locator, our Geolytix town and locality names, and an exact rooftop location (in British National Grid and web friendly WGS84 lat/long). Yes, we have probably spent more time directing ourselves around the country in google street view than the google van spent capturing the imagery (and yes, we have manually located each of the 7,490 stores with the aim to get a really good dataset). Geolytix work on so many projects that start with the ground work of supermarket locations, and anyone working with data of any kind knows that the results of any processes can only be as good as the quality of data going in in the first instance.Data is never perfect, so before the first person finds a store out of place, and please try and be that first person, we put a disclaimer out: yes there may be the odd typo and perhaps (but hopefully not too many) we are missing the odd store.Our ultimate vision is that the retailers and public grab hold of this dataset and we enrich and improve it; for example ‘we’ could add in features- fish counter, electrical department, pharmacy; accessibility and so on, the possibilities are endless. We’d love to hear about your ideas.Finally, some thank yous. We wouldn’t be doing this without the support of the supermarkets themselves; and our discussions with them have shown just how willing the private sector is to share data – everyone we have talked to has been nothing but supportive which bodes well for the future.DATAYou can download the Open Supermarkets database and supporting documentation here."
    },{
      "title": "National Business Awards Double Finalists",
      "date": "Fri Jul 25 2014 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2014-07-25-national-business-awards-double-finalists/",
      "excerpt": "Geolytix announced as double awards finalist",
      "content": "Spatial Data Startup Selected for Blackberry™ Business Enabler of the Year and New Business of the Year in National Business Awards.Location-planning firm, Geolytix, has been shortlisted for The Blackberry Business Enabler of the Year and The New Business of the Year for the 2014 National Business Awards.In a rapidly-evolving retail market where location is more important than ever before, Geolytix is an all-star team that builds innovative data, creates algorithms and develops software that ensures major retailers make the right decisions. Clients of GeoLytix, including major supermarkets, Boots, The Post Office and Camelot, invest billions of pounds a year in-store and across their home delivery networks – Geolytix helps them spend that money wisely.Going up against Fluidata and Winmark Ltd, Geolytix will compete for the prestigious award, with the winner being revealed at the National Business Awards gala dinner held on 11 November at Park Lane’s Grosvenor House Hotel in London.Simon Feary, CEO, Chartered Quality Institute, judge for the category said: “A new venture but already Geolytix has attracted the attention of some impressive clients. A real enabler of business with their product, but also and equally impressive, an enabler through their approach to staff”.Sarah Hitchcock, Partner at Geolytix, said: “Being shortlisted for two National Business Awards is a wonderful conclusion to a fantastic year. We’ve been fortunate to work with some inspirational partners, and developed great relationships with our customers – whatever the result, we’re looking forward to a fantastic celebration in November”.Britain’s leading businesses, business leaders and social enterprises have today been revealed as finalists for the 2014 National Business Awards. The finalists announced today represent categories including the Smith & Williamson Entrepreneur of the Year, Santander Small to Medium-Sized Business of the Year and the Inflexion International Growth Business of the Year. The Ashridge Business School Leader of the Year finalists and Decade of Excellence winner will be announced over the coming months, with the Duke of York New Entrepreneur of the Year finalists announced last month following a judging event in Liverpool.This year’s shortlisted businesses cover activities as diverse as retail, technology, men’s grooming products, telecoms, construction, advertising, entertainment, and publishing. Of the businesses shortlisted, 24% turnover under £5m, 26% turnover between £5m and £25m, 15% over a billion and 10% not for profit organisations. The smallest business recognised has a turnover of just £23k with the largest reaching £20 billion. Finalists collectively employ over 850,000 people, the smallest has just one member of staff while the largest employs around 165,000 people globally.Alex Evans, Programme Director of the National Business Awards said: “The diversity and quality of this year’s finalists have firmly established the National Business Awards as the talent scout for UK plc, with market leading household names recognised alongside the best emerging business brands. With a variety of industries represented, these recovery-leading businesses have demonstrated the return on investment in people, innovation, customer service and leadership.”Finalists were chosen from the hundreds of businesses that entered or were nominated across 17 award categories. They will now prepare for live presentations to expert juries who will decide the overall winners that will be revealed at the awards ceremony on 11 November."
    },{
      "title": "Workplace Data Release",
      "date": "Mon Jun 23 2014 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2014-06-23-workplace-data-release/",
      "excerpt": "The world is getting more mobile and connected. As analysts we need to go beyond knowing what types of people sleep where.",
      "content": "We need to know where people work, shop and play. Mining social and call trace data is an emerging source of insight. We need new definitive data spines on which to build out-of-home models. At Geolytix, we are hugely excited by the new Workplace Statistics. These are the largest single innovation in the 2011 census.All census statistics are released as open data, but getting quick, simple and comprehensive access to them can be a pain. For the residential data we chose to release a census pack as open data, and we are doing the same with the Workplace statistics. We’ve also created a comprehensive User Guide chock-full of useful tips and explanations that we hope help analysts get the most from the data. The user guide and data can be found in the Open Census Pack.We have already used these data in three large projects ourselves. We have:Built robust estimates of workplace demand for products and servicesCreated geo-demographic profiles of workplace postcodes just as you would for residential onesDeveloped site research models that incorporate the increasingly important click-and-collect, show-rooming and m-commerce elementsModelled journeys to work, including mode and station choice.Since we released it, our residential Census pack has been downloaded over 3,000 times. I hope our workplace pack gets as much use."
    },{
      "title": "The Latest Phenomenon: Pop-Up Shops",
      "date": "Fri Feb 21 2014 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)",
      "url": "/blog/2014-02-21-the-latest-phenomenon-pop-up-shops/",
      "excerpt": "Flash retailing has become a popular concept. This is a new breed of pop-up shops, far from the tacky, messy seasonal shops that appear around a festive holiday.",
      "content": "These are local, quirky, designer and intriguing.The saviour of the declining high street?There is a continuing discussion regarding the death of the high street, with the prime suspects being out-of-town shopping centres and of course online. Add the current global recession into the mix, and the situation looks even worse.Not only may these relatively new and increasingly popular pop-up shops save the British high street, it’s possible they’ll have the sufficient longevity to avoid succumbing to the same fate as our befallen high street classics. The government launching “meanwhile use” lease contracts mean units left empty can be filled on a temporary basis. This is allowing smaller businesses, usually from the local area, to display their products and get their name out there. It has become apparent in this day and age that consumer tastes are forever changing. With no warning of the longevity of each trend, the pop-up shop concept is adaptable to this capricious market. As products come and go so do the shops that sell them. They can now be found across the whole country in towns and cities.Boutique ShoppingRising retailers such as teastained Lil and Natalie Teare are facilitated by schemes such as PopUp Britain to open pop-up shops in various locations. PopUp Britain supports their efforts to bolster their online brand in a cost-effective way, and helps them avoid prohibitive permanent rent costs. This ability to embrace new locations to set up shops allows retailers to change their lay out and the way they use space, helping them test what works well for their consumers and for the brand.Unsurprisingly, Alexandra Heywood, founder of teastained Lil, is a big fan: “The pop-up revolution has completely redefined our business model and given us a quick, cost-effective and creative route to the high street. We are able to expand our customer base, test products and interact with customers, which is so important in a small business’s development; and that’s all within a flexible and versatile working space, one which we are to brand and dress accordingly. We only wish more landlords would embrace this way of working and present small business with more pop-up solutions.”On a bigger scale… Pop-up mallsThe world’s first declared pop-up mall, BOXPARK, is located in Shoreditch, London, and opened in 2011 on a five-year lease. It is self-proclaimed to accept “any retailer that is doing something a little different”. This invites a wide range of outlets from established brands to less well-known names. The mall is constructed using 60 shipping containers: 40 of these are on the lower level, and house shops, whilst the remaining 20 on the upper level offering food, drinks and meeting space. This cargotecture concept adheres to the environmentally-friendly trends of today’s society. The container design makes changing store hosts a straight forward process, with no disassembly required, offers retailers have a blank canvas to display their unique style through decoration and their products.Location Location LocationFor pop-up shops, location is crucially important. The brand can have as little as a fortnight to make an impact, meaning there’s no time to build loyalty among customers, and for them to change their shopping route in order to seek them out. Pitches in low footfall areas may not be worth the initial investment from a start-up. Often retailers in locations with high rent costs are the most vulnerable-leaving vacant store space available on the most sought after streets in the UK; and this is where a start-up can grab the bargain of the century if the timing is right.A walk along many previously bustling but now semi-derelict high streets can leave you feeling uncomfortable and depressed. Pop-up shops to the rescue – it can be the perfect antidote to consumers who have had their fill of charity shops – and offers a viable outlet for new-look consumables."
    }]