| Abstract: | This paper addresses the use of historical methods in the context of retail management studies. It acknowledges the research activity which has already taken place and the number of calls for further research which have been made. However, it also notes that historical method still remains an under-exploited means of understanding retailing. The paper explores the problems of integrating historical method within retail studies and the inhibitors which have restricted the use of this approach to research. The paper explores the problems associated with methodological assumptions and the future direction which historical studies may take if they are to make a contribution to retail management studies. |
