František Križan

The low participation rate of preschool children in pre-primary education is most often due to (i) a lack of kindergartens or available places in them, and (ii) low participation of children from a socially disadvantaged environment. Lack of knowledge and information on the specific features of (un)availability of kindergartens, the nature and drivers of low enrolment of preschool children, are often the cause of the poor effectiveness of programmes to increase children’s participation in pre-primary education. The approach presented here reflects a broader spectrum of aspects of availability in pre-primary education. The paper aims to identify regions suitable for targeting interventions and funding to support pre-primary education. The intention is to assess the spatial differentiation of availability of pre-primary education based on the regional typology of municipalities and to identify potential factors influencing its variability. Key findings reveal significant regional differences in participation in pre-primary education. The results show that children’s participation in pre-primary education is conditioned not only by insufficient kindergarten capacity but also by different demographic, social, and economic conditions. The findings are useful for planning pre-primary education. They highlight the need for targeted interventions and spatially differentiated education policies to improve access to pre-primary education.

Slovenská akadémia vied vykonáva špičkový základný výskum, dlhodobý strategický a aplikovaný výskum a vývoj a poskytuje prístup k vedeckej infraštruktúre.

This study aims to evaluate the spatial distribution and clustering patterns of grocery retail chains in Brno, Czech Republic, focusing on national and multinational stores. By employing Geographic Information Systems and advanced spatial analysis techniques, including the nearest neighbour method, standard deviational ellipse, Kernel density estimation and street network centrality measures, the research identifies significant spatial clustering influenced by population density and urban morphology. Results highlight disparities in spatial organisation, with national chains concentrated in central urban areas and multinational chains showing broader dispersal, particularly along major transportation corridors. Findings reveal a stronger dependency of multinational stores on street network centrality compared to national stores, emphasising the impact of urban connectivity on retail location strategies. These insights contribute to understanding urban retail dynamics and support future planning and development of retail networks.

Generational shifts in consumer shopping behavior have garnered increasing interest, particularly due to the impact of the Covid‐19 pandemic on different age cohorts. This study examines changes in the shopping behavior of Slovak consumers in 2020, 2021, and 2024 using representative research data, focusing on all generational cohorts (except Generation Alpha). The analysis reveals differences and similarities in fast‐moving consumer goods shopping behavior among generations during the Covid‐19 pandemic. Findings highlight generational trends in store choice, purchase frequency, and panic buying. Our findings deepen the understanding of how generational differences shape consumer responses to crises like the Covid‐19 pandemic.

Slovenská akadémia vied vykonáva špičkový základný výskum, dlhodobý strategický a aplikovaný výskum a vývoj a poskytuje prístup k vedeckej infraštruktúre.

Research background: Generation Z, a consumer base with significant global impact, strongly relies on smart devices, shaping their unique consumption patterns. As this demographic becomes increasingly influential, understanding their shopping behavior is crucial for effective retail marketing strategies. Purpose of the article: This article aims to evaluate the shopping behavior and habits of Generation Z, particularly focusing on the determinants that influence their choices, with a specific emphasis on the role of smart technology. The objective is to uncover insights that explain the relationship between smart device usage and shopping behavior, offering perspectives for retailers aiming to tailor their strategies to the preferences of this demographic. Methods: A survey conducted during the 2019/2020 season involved 1,756 respondents from the Czech Generation Z. To estimate the relationships between smart device usage and shopping behavior, the linear probability and the logit models were employed. Additionally, descriptive statistics provided a comprehensive overview of respondents’ preferences and habits. Findings & value added: The results indicate that while the average time spent on smartphones does not inherently correlate with an increased preference for online shopping, it does enhance the likelihood of engaging in online transactions. Contrary to expectations, brick-and-mortar stores remain competitive and are slightly more preferred than online shops among the Czech young generation. This preference is attributed to the tangible experience of touching products and immersing in the store's ambiance. Furthermore, a relationship emerges between concerns about data security and a reduced frequency of online shopping, emphasizing the need to address such apprehensions in marketing strategies. Overall, these findings provide insights into the nuanced shopping behaviors of Generation Z, with implications that extend beyond regional boundaries, guiding retailers in adapting and optimizing their approaches to meet the needs of this demographic.