Abstract:
This study investigates the economics of garden egg (Solanum melongena) marketing in Aniocha
South Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was used to
collect data from a random sample of 100 garden egg marketers. Analytical tools, including
descriptive statistics, budgetary techniques, and, were employed to achieve the study objectives.
The socioeconomic characteristics of the marketers revealed a significant gender imbalance, with
75.0% being female. The majority falls within the age range of 30-40 years, possess at least a
secondary school education, and have 11-15 years of marketing experience. The average
household size is 8.17, and 45.0% are members of a cooperative association. The marketing
channels analysis indicates that 59.0% of marketers are retailers, emphasizing a retail-centric
structure. Most marketers (72.0%) sell directly to consumers, and a majority (54.0%) purchase
garden eggs in quantities above 10 bags. The study on costs and returns reveals a profitable
venture, with a positive profit margin of N132, 500 and a profitability index of 33.8%.
|
