Whether known as the high street, main street, or market square, central shopping districts in many towns throughout the world are in danger of disappearing. The decline in some downtown shopping areas began decades ago because of various social and economic trends, including an increase in the number of women working outside of the home and the development of large supermarkets and retail parks further out on the outskirts of towns. While change is inevitably difficult, communities should not be fearful about the loss of their traditional shopping areas. Shopping is increasingly conducted via the internet. Compared to traditional ways of shopping, the online model offers savings in terms of time and other resources while also providing greater consumer choice.