Urban food deserts" could become a reality in the UK one industry body has warned.
The Forum of Private Businesses warns that people living in residential areas could have problems accessing reasonably priced food store by foot or public transport due to the rise of out-of-town supermarkets.
Matt Goodman, the FPB's policy representative, explained that research by Canadian academics indicates that such "food deserts" are already a reality in some parts of that country.
"It seems that we don't fully understand how opening these huge stores impacts a community's ability to support the people who live and work there.
"The government must act to help foster sustainable communities in towns and cities across the UK, and promote local retailers and local produce."
Earlier this week, the Federation of Small Businesses called on local authorities to do more to help nearby firms.
It said that decisions made be councillors can have a huge impact on SMEs.
