Conclusions: International perspectives on the transformation of markets

In this book we have critically analysed the state of traditional markets in Europe and Latin America and our cases show that traditional forms of retail are undergoing profound forms of transformation. We have seen that markets occupy a contested position in many cities as they bring together diverse and often contradictory interests and functions. They are often neither public nor private spaces; they can be strongly regulated by state and private authorities but at the same time informal practices arise and are maintained in the interstices between the formality. Markets have historically attracted vulnerable, low income and marginalised groups as places for work and to access affordable food and services and they are recognised as contributing to social inclusion. But this very same condition makes them vulnerable to gentrification processes where the informal atmosphere that sustains practices of solidarity can be eroded as traders and market users are displaced and replaced by much more corporate and regulated forms of retail.