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Modular Buildings as a Potential for Small Trade Development in a Sustainable City

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  • Monika Siewczyńska

    (Institute of Building Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Transport Engineering, Poznan University of Technology, Piotrowo 5, 60-965 Poznan, Poland)

  • Borys Siewczyński

    (Institute of Architecture and Heritage Protection, Faculty of Architecture, Poznan University of Technology, Rychlewskiego 2, 61-139 Poznan, Poland)

  • Agnieszka Grzelczak

    (Institute of Logistics, Faculty of Engineering Management, Poznan University of Technology, Rychlewskiego 2, 61-139 Poznan, Poland)

  • Anna Szymczak-Graczyk

    (Department of Construction and Geoengineering, Faculty of Environmental and Mechanical Engineering, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Piatkowska 94E, 60-649 Poznan, Poland)

  • Barbara Ksit

    (Institute of Building Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Transport Engineering, Poznan University of Technology, Piotrowo 5, 60-965 Poznan, Poland)

Abstract

The development of retail stores is determined by many factors, including the availability of retail space. The construction of a new building requires time, resources, and permits. This article aims to examine the possibilities of implementing small modular retail facilities built on the principles of vending machines, which do not require constant service and social space, by examining important groups of factors: architectural and structural, production, environmental, and costs. A vending machine in modular construction technology provides new opportunities for the development of a retail network in previously inaccessible places. The research presented in this article was conducted based on a literature review and interviews with experts, on the basis of which, using the network thinking methodology, critical factors were isolated and analysed in detail. The research results show the benefits of using modular technology, meeting the assumptions of the circular economy in terms of reducing the carbon footprint and improving the construction stage and investment costs, while taking into account the aesthetics of the surroundings. The results can contribute to the popularisation of the use of modular facilities, which can complement the development of downtown areas, making cities more sustainable.

Suggested Citation

  • Monika Siewczyńska & Borys Siewczyński & Agnieszka Grzelczak & Anna Szymczak-Graczyk & Barbara Ksit, 2025. "Modular Buildings as a Potential for Small Trade Development in a Sustainable City," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(13), pages 1-28, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:13:p:5958-:d:1690044
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Tareq N. Hashem, 2020. "Examining the Influence of COVID 19 Pandemic in Changing Customers' Orientation towards E-Shopping," Modern Applied Science, Canadian Center of Science and Education, vol. 14(8), pages 1-59, August.
    2. Matthias Prandtstetter & Clovis Seragiotto & Johannes Braith & Sandra Eitler & Bernhard Ennser & Georg Hauger & Nina Hohenecker & Reinhold Schodl & Matthias Steinbauer, 2021. "On the Impact of Open Parcel Lockers on Traffic," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(2), pages 1-19, January.
    3. Garusinghe Dewa Ayesha Udari Garusinghe & Balasooriya Arachchige Kanchana Shiromi Perera & Umesha Sasanthi Weerapperuma, 2023. "Integrating Circular Economy Principles in Modular Construction to Enhance Sustainability," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(15), pages 1-25, July.
    4. He Wang & Yinqi Zhang & Weijun Gao & Soichiro Kuroki, 2020. "Life Cycle Environmental and Cost Performance of Prefabricated Buildings," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(7), pages 1-19, March.
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