Posted October 17, 2005

Dr. Ken Smith.Geography Awareness Week Presentation: "Market Area Research: Geographic Concepts and Applications in the Development Process for Department Stores."

Dr. Ken Smith will present "Market Area Research: Geographic Concepts and Applications in the Development Process for Department Stores" as part of the Department of Geography's Geography Awareness Week Activities. His presentation will be held Monday, November 14 at 7:30 pm in Tillman Hall 214.

Dr. Smith's lecture will highlight:

  1. the research questions Area Research analysts are asked;
  2. the scales of analysis from the regional or macro viewpoint down to the site;
  3. the steps in the store development process (this might also appeal to those interested in financial analysis and real estate);
  4. trade areas as primary building blocks for geographical analysis; and
  5. an actual case study.

Dr. Smith is the Vice President of Area Research for The May Department Stores Company, the nation’s second largest traditional department store group with over $14 billion in annual sales and a operating division of Federated Holdings, Inc. The Area Research Department is responsible for market analysis and sales forecasting. Emphasizing new store location, sales potential, and strategy, the research is designed to select the best markets for new stores and opportunities for expansion and remodeling of existing stores. Area Research sales forecasts are utilized as a key ingredient in the capital expenditure process.

Prior to joining May Company in 1988, Smith served in various positions leading to Manager, Area Research and Planning for Target Corporation (formerly Dayton Hudson Corporation) in Minneapolis (1979-1988). Smith began his career as a faculty member of the Department of Geography, Virginia Tech (1973-1979), where he was awarded the Certificate of Teaching Excellence from the College of Arts and Sciences in 1979. Smith has remained active in both the retail industry and the geography profession. Prior service includes the Research Steering Committee of the International Council of Shopping Centers (1991-2003), the Steering Committee of the annual Applied Geography Conference (1985-1995), and the Editorial Board of The Professional Geographer (1992-1997).

Smith received his BA degree from Bethel University, St. Paul, Minnesota. He also holds M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in Geography from the University of Minnesota.

The public is invited to attend. Admission is free.