Exploration of location influences on firm survival rates with parametric duration models

This study explored the influences of location on business firm survival rates with the use of parametric duration models applied to a data set. Of the variables included, those found to be the most significant were accessibility to infrastructure supply, regional effects, demographic and economic aspects, and rent price. Analyses also were depicted by firm type (economic activity sector) along with interactions between them and some location attributes. The study led to a better understanding of firm survival patterns with respect to urban characteristics. The results presented in this paper are part of a demographic approach, which in turn is part of a multiagent system to simulate the coevolution of firm dynamics and changes in activity-travel patterns.