The decline of public markets: evaluation of the current situation in Cuautepec, Mexico City

Abstract

Throughout history, markets have been fundamental elements for the exchange of goods and the strengthening of socio-economic relationships, as well as important cultural expressions. Today, these spaces continue to play a key role as supply centers within the urban structure. However, the expansion of new consumption models, such as supermarkets and self-service stores, has contributed to the functional decline of many public markets in various urban areas. This article aims to assess the physical and functional condition of public markets, using the Cuautepec area in Mexico City as a case study. To achieve this, two key questions are analyzed: What is the importance of public markets in urban functioning? and What factors drive their abandonment and deterioration? The hypothesis suggests that the functionality of these spaces is affected by competition with other supply forms, such as self-service stores and street markets (tianguis), which more efficiently respond to household consumption patterns and commercial location dynamics. This situation has led to their progressive physical, functional, and economic decline, reducing their competitiveness and relevance within the urban supply system.