Which of the following is a source of information about trade areas?

The choice of geographic information system (GIS) suppliers as a source of information about trade areas is correct because GIS technology is specifically designed to analyze spatial data, which is essential in understanding trade areas. GIS provides detailed maps and analytics that can identify demographic trends, consumer behaviors, and other geographical factors that influence where businesses should locate and how they should target specific markets. It allows retailers to visualize trade areas based on location, competitor positioning, and customer distribution, thereby facilitating better decision-making.

While retail sales data can offer insights into current performance, it does not inherently provide a comprehensive view of potential market areas. Social media analytics primarily focuses on online interactions and consumer sentiments but lacks the geographical context necessary for analyzing trade areas. Customer feedback forms gather information from existing customers but do not contribute directly to understanding broader geographical market dynamics. Thus, GIS suppliers stand out as the most relevant source for trade area analysis.