An empirical analysis of entry and location decisions by bars and liquor stores

We analyze the entry and location decisions of bars and liquor stores using a spatial game-theoretical framework. We first estimate a one-industry location game where we model bars and liquor stores separately. We then estimate a two-industry location game where we model bars and liquor stores jointly. The model allows for two contradictory effects: a competition effect and a spillover effect. Estimation results reveal a strong negative competition effect for both bars and liquor stores. However, bars appear to benefit from a substantially positive spillover effect. We also find that bars and liquor stores compete with each other. For example, an additional liquor store in a location decreases the probability of a new bar opening in that location and vice versa.