The Dictionary of Human Geography

of the company counter that most of the exter-
nalities are positive ones: Wal-Mart contrib-
utes to local social welfare by generating
employment (particularly by locating in low-
income neighbourhoods that have been largely
abandoned by large employers) and by

reducing prices for customers, many of whom

also tend to be poor. A major store can also

generate additional sales for a range of local

companies such as restaurants and gas stations,

another form of positive externality. jpe

Gregory / The Dictionary of Human Geography 9781405132879_4_E Final Proof page 236 1.4.2009 3:17pm

EXTERNALITIES