Routledge Contested Markets, Contested Cities - Urban Studies

Markets serve as the foundation of urban life, acting as essential hubs for social, cultural, and economic interaction. For centuries, these spaces have evolved into vital work environments, often serving as independent, non-corporate, and informal settings for millions of vulnerable people worldwide. In recent years, a shift has occurred. Markets are now sought after by tourists, food enthusiasts, and middle-class consumers searching for heritage and authenticity. This shift creates a tension between the original users of these spaces and new consumer interests. This book examines how these conflicting groups turn markets into contested spaces. As part of the Routledge Studies in Urbanism and the City series, this text explores the complex relationship between gentrification and urban justice within retail environments. It provides a deep look at how the changing value of markets impacts the cities they inhabit.