‘Big box stores and obesity’

Abstract

This article examines whether obesity prevalence is influenced by the market structure of retail food outlets. A few studies have examined the effects of ‘big box’ stores on prices, food choices and obesity, but the present study extends empirical examination to all types of stores to determine if there are significant differences in their effects on obesity prevalence. Four types of retail food outlets are examined: supermarkets, supercentres and warehouse club stores (i.e. ‘big box’ stores), convenience stores and specialty stores. Counties with more retail food stores experience lower prevalence of adult obesity, but this inverse relationship appears to stem from greater numbers of supermarkets and specialty food stores. Obesity prevalence is positively associated with market shares of ‘big box’ and convenience stores.

Keywords:

• obesity
• public health
• retail food sellers

JEL Classification:

• I18
• I12
• L11