The Transformation of Local Independent Retail in City Centers and Its Effects on the City's Macroform: The Case of Ankara

The unplanned growth of city centers threatens the local fabric of cities, while local retail has become an important component of preserving city identity and sustainable consumption. This research aims to examine the effect of shopping motivations on customer satisfaction and to determine how factors such as customer proximity, relationships with local suppliers, and store atmosphere shape consumers' perception of Urban Attachment. Data obtained using systematic and stratified sampling methods in the districts of Altındağ, Çankaya, Etimesgut, Gölbaşı, Keçiören, Mamak, Pursaklar, and Sincan in Ankara were analyzed. Statistical analysis methods such as linear regression, logistic regression, ANOVA, and independent samples t-test were used in the study. Regression analyses show a positive and statistically significant relationship between shopping motivations and customer satisfaction. Furthermore, proximity to the customer and relationships with local suppliers were found to have a significant and positive effect on customer satisfaction. Shopping motivations, community connection, and store atmosphere factor scores showed significant differences across different visit frequency groups. This study uniquely highlights the critical role local retailers play in strengthening consumers' emotional connection to the city. The findings emphasize local businesses' importance in preserving city identity and creating a sustainable consumption ecosystem.