GEOSPATIAL DIFFERENTIATION OF THE IMPACT OF RETAIL NETWORKS ON ECONOMIC GROWTH IN THE REGIONS OF UKRAINE

Abstract

Globalization and Ukraine's integration into the global economy are accompanied by the growing influence of international retail networks on regional development. Networks such as "SPAR," "METRO Group," and "Auchan" play a key role in the transformation of the consumer market, influencing the structure of the country's economy. This study analyzes the geospatial aspects of retail network expansion and assesses their contribution to the economic development of regions. Special attention is given to the impact on infrastructure development, job creation, the competitiveness of local producers, and changes in consumer behavior. The paper defines the role of international networks in strengthening Ukraine's integration into global trade chains and offers a forecast for the development of the retail sector in the context of the economic and spatial specifics of the regions.