LOCATION FACTORS OF SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTREPRENEURSHIP UNDER THE ECONOMIC CONDITIONS OF THE CZECH REPUBLIC

The first location theories are based on assumptions of perfect competition (e.g. J. H. von Thunen, A. Weber). These theories build fundaments for other classic or modern theories of location decision-making process. Modification of location theory was realized after deconstruction of assumptions of perfect competition (e.g. Hotel ling's model, A. Losch). The key point of the location service sector theory is the central places theory (W. Christaller). The influence of French background is important in pole development theory given base for interpretation of spatial dimension of modern spatial cluster this theory. The behavioural theory's authors deconstructed the assumptions of rational behavior of consumers and firms. The realized empirical research in 284 small and medium firms (SME) is a base for classification of location decision making factors. The empirical research was aimed to verification of SME factors realized on local or regional supplier and customer's market in the Czech Republic. The universality of location factors is tested. Geographical (transport) nearness of the customer's market (factors important for SME location decision making process irrespective of sector and size character) forms the first category. The reverse category (factors insignificant over the sector and size character) is formed by the possibility to gain an unique market position, possibility to cooperate with competitiveness and improve information position about its activities. The third category (factors important partly) is formed by geographical nearness (distance) of competitiveness (important in tertiary sector and for micro-firm location decision making process), geographical nearness of suppliers (important for medium firms), accessibility of complementary services, regional economic growth (important over size characteristic and in secondary and tertiary sector) and copying of competitiveness (important in primary sector and category of medium firms). None of tested location decision-making factors can be determined as a universal one (important for majority of firms irrespective of sector and size characterization).