Distribution Of Bread In Enugu Metropolis Problems And Prospects
(A Case Study Of Macon’s Bread)
The distribution of bread encompasses a complex landscape with various challenges and opportunities. On one hand, logistical issues such as transportation and storage can hinder the efficient distribution of bread, particularly in rural areas or regions with inadequate infrastructure. Additionally, economic factors like fluctuating prices of ingredients and labor costs can impact distribution networks, affecting both producers and consumers. However, advancements in technology, such as automated production processes and online delivery services, present opportunities to streamline distribution channels and reach a wider market. Furthermore, initiatives promoting food security and reducing food waste contribute to more equitable bread distribution. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, NGOs, and private sectors are essential in addressing these challenges and maximizing the prospects for efficient bread distribution, ensuring that this staple food reaches those in need while supporting the sustainability of the bread industry.
The modern managers need problem identification and adequate information in these complex conditions of business in order to stay in the market and also to make viable decisions. These information are mostly gathered from effective and efficient research project and it is in these that the decisions are based.
In other words, this project research is aimed at giving such vital information that will aid the management of Macons bread to know their distribution effectiveness and factors influencing their distribution effectiveness.
The researcher made use of primary and secondary data. Primary data used include interviews and observation, the researcher specifically interviewed the managing director, production manger, and the sales man. While secondary data is on library sources as tools for gathering the data.
It is found out from the study, that the macons bread or the company are making use of delivery van to distribute their product to some places. The distributions are not supervised and communication facilities are poor, due to the poor transportation.
Major recommendation include government repair of roads to improve transport system of establishment supervision and distribution by the company sales man.
The company should arrange for training, for itself and public relation manager would improve the promotion on their product.
Title Page
Approval page
Dedication
Acknowledgement
Abstract
Table of content
CHAPTER ONE
Introduction 1
1.1 Background of the Study 1
1.2 Statement of Problem 4
1.3 Objectives of the Study 4
1.4 Significance of the Study 5
1.5 Scope or Limitation of the Study 6
1.6 Definition of Terms 7
CHAPTER TWO
2.0 Review of related literature 9
2.1 An Overview of Distribution in Nigeria 9
2.2 Determining Channel Selection of Bread 12
2.3 Physical Distribution 13
2.4 Available Bread Distribution Channel 14
2.5 Problems of Distribution 16
2.6 Distribution Cost 18
CHAPTER THREE
3.0 Methodology 20
3.1 Sources of Data 20
3.2 Method of Investigation 22
CHAPTER FOUR
4.0 Analysis Presentation and Interpretation of Data 24
CHAPTER FIVE
5.1 Recommendation 31
5.2 Conclusion 32
Bibliography 34
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study
The process by which goods were from the producer or area of abundance to the consumer or region of need or scarcity is known as Distribution.
The identification and production of consumers needs and wants is not complete without the practise of marketing concepts, if the product did not reach the consumer at the time, place, quantity and at the right price.
Therefore, for an effective and efficient marketing operation the goods must be made available at the most convenient place for the consumers to easily obtain the goods/ products thirst is distribution.
Most at times, the channels and patterns of distribution is determined by producers. A firms financial capability determines either for the firm to carryout a direct channel of distribution when such firm sells its product to the consumer on the other hand the firm is not solidly funded or a matter of marketing effectiveness cam move its product consumer through distribution specialist known as middlemen. The middlemen comprise agents. wholesalers, brokers and Retailers. The number of length of distribution channel open as on the nature of the product.
Industrial goods and durable consumerable goods can be a longer process of distribution from the manufacturer to an agent to the wholesalers, who sell is small quantities to the retailers who then sell to the ultimate consumers.
On the other side I hand non durable goods can take zero channel or one channel of distribution. Our subjects happens to fall in this category of goods because of its nature.
Bread is produced by mixing grounded cereal i.e. (Flour) granulated sugar, yeast, butter, water and carbon (IV) oxide and heated in oven to dry the moisture and rise due to the presence of carbon (IV) oxide. This combination makes bread very vulnerable to decay when it comes in contact with water or shut out of air. For this chemical nature of the product it takes a short channel of distribution in most cases in channel from the producer to retailers who sell in units to the consumers.
In Enugu Metropolis there are not less than twenty (20) bakery firm or industries. Notably among them are Macons International Ltd. (Makers of Macons Bread) located at (58 Ibadan street federal low cost, Housing Trans-Ekulu, Dax International (Bakery) Producer of Amechi Bread) 114 Agbani Road Enugu, Macons Bakery Enterprises, maker of Macons Bread, behind NNPC Depot Emene, Metro Bakery, No 10 Obiagu Road Ogui New lay Out and Croisant Technical Nigeria Ltd of Dens Cook Foods located at No 2 Agbani Road Enugu.
Of all the bakeries Macons Bread was chosen as my case study due to its large market share and sophisticated organizational structure.
THE ORGANIZATIONAL CHART OF MACONS BREAD
1.2 Statement of Distribution Problems
1. Macons Bread are not available to most consumers because major retail outlet usually had no stock.
2. Macons Bread are not conveniently procured because they are not easily found.
3. Macons Bread has poor transportation of their Product due to bad roads.
4. Macons Bread has insufficient of delivery van in order to reach many destination in Enugu.
5 Macons Bread should arrange for training for itself so that public relations manager would improve the promotion of their product.
6. Macons Bread have to qualified drivers.
1.3 Objective of the Study
Distribution plays important role in marketing activities therefore an effective and efficient distribution it enhances the satisfaction of the consumers.
Furthermore the distribution functions vary from firm to another defending on the type of product, therefore the market and the awareness stage of the consumers.
To this extents this research work is therefore a product.
i. To investigate the best channel of distribution of a product.
ii. To determine distribution made to adapt for convenient purchase of Macons Bread
iii. Identifying distribution problems confronting distribution in general and Macons Bread in particular.
iv. And preferring solution to solve distribution problem militating against Macons Bread.
1.4 Significance of the Study
i. The Bread Industries
ii. Nigerian economy
1.5 Scope of Limitation of the Study
In anything in human endeavour we expect some bottleneck along the lines, likewise this study. To reduce complexity problems involved in this nature of research the study reviewed to a particular firms and their distribution systems in the entire nation wide environment.
Therefore, this study is strictly limited to Macons Bread and its distribution system in Enugu Metropolis.
The firm was chosen due to its position in the mind of consumers and its large market share.
Limitation of the Study
1. Finance:- This researcher being student would not affect as much as to enable us to meet up with the financial requirement such as travelling to various places for materials since the researcher were spending of their meagre pocket money.
2. Time Factor:- The researcher could not carryout an idnepth study of the topic due to time constraint, we had to attend lectures and meet up with other academic requirements.
3. Late Return of Questionnaires:- Most reports had lukewarm attitude towards responding to questionnaires and also causes of late return of questionnaires constitutes some constraints.
4. Pressure of Course Work:- The pressure of course work limits the area of coverage by the researcher. I attend to lectures, prepare assignments and reach quizzes, examinations and also carrying out the research.
5. Non-Availability or Relevant Materials:- Some of the relevant materials and information which would have helped the quantity or the research were not available to the researcher due to unwillingness or the respondents to supply certain information to the researcher.
1.6 Definition of Terms
NNPC: Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation
LTD: Limited
MD; Managing Director
MO: Marketing Operation
DCG: Durable Consumable Goods
BAKER: This is a place where bread baked for sale.
METROOLIS: Chief region of a city or country.
LMS: Large Market Share.
Distribution Of Bread In Enugu Metropolis Problems And Prospects:
The distribution of bread, both in terms of its production and consumption, can vary significantly depending on the region and the specific economic and cultural factors at play. Here, we’ll discuss some common problems and prospects associated with the distribution of bread.
Problems:
- Supply Chain Challenges: Bread distribution often faces supply chain challenges. These can include disruptions in the availability of raw materials (like wheat flour or yeast), transportation bottlenecks, and issues with storage and warehousing.
- Quality Control: Ensuring consistent quality of bread products throughout the distribution process can be challenging. Factors like temperature, humidity, and handling can affect the quality of bread, leading to customer dissatisfaction.
- Waste: Bread is perishable, and a significant amount is wasted at various stages of the distribution process, from production to retail and consumer levels. Reducing this waste is an ongoing challenge.
- Price Fluctuations: The cost of bread can fluctuate due to variations in the price of wheat, energy, and other inputs. This can make it challenging for both producers and consumers to plan their budgets effectively.
- Distribution Inequality: In some regions, there may be disparities in the availability and affordability of bread. Rural areas or economically disadvantaged communities might have limited access to fresh and affordable bread, leading to food insecurity issues.
Prospects:
- Technological Advancements: The use of technology, such as automated production and delivery systems, can improve the efficiency of bread distribution. This includes processes like online ordering and delivery apps, which have gained popularity in recent years.
- Healthier Bread Options: There is a growing demand for healthier bread options, such as whole-grain and gluten-free varieties. Producers that adapt to these trends can tap into a new market segment.
- Sustainability: Sustainable bread production and distribution methods are gaining traction. This includes sourcing ingredients responsibly, reducing waste, and exploring eco-friendly packaging options.
- Local and Artisanal Bread: Many consumers are seeking out local and artisanal bread, valuing the freshness and unique flavors these products offer. Small bakeries and specialty bread producers can benefit from this trend.
- Food Security Initiatives: Governments and NGOs in various regions are implementing programs to improve food security, including ensuring access to affordable bread. These initiatives can help address distribution inequalities.
- Global Trade: Global trade in wheat and wheat products, including bread, continues to expand. This can provide access to a wider variety of bread types and flavors for consumers and new markets for producers.
- Educating Consumers: Increasing consumer awareness about the nutritional value of different types of bread and the importance of reducing food waste can lead to more responsible consumption and distribution.
In conclusion, while bread distribution faces challenges such as supply chain issues, quality control, and waste, there are also promising prospects driven by technology, sustainability, and changing consumer preferences. The future of bread distribution will likely involve a combination of addressing these challenges and seizing these opportunities to meet the evolving demands of consumers.