What’s in store: prospects and challenges for American street-level commerce

This paper surveys dynamics and trends that have influenced and continue to influence the three key tenants of American urban storefronts: retailers, food services, and personal services. By connecting academic literature, economic statistics, and real estate and marketing industry reports, the article outlines what these three street-level industries can expect in the foreseeable future. E-commerce, the experience economy, the Maker Economy, and regulatory, cultural and demographic shifts will have a profound impact on American urban storefronts – but certainly not always a negative one. Urban designers have a key role in ensuring vibrant, inclusive and resilient commercial streets.