Economic Analysis of Fruits and Vegetables Marketers in Bauchi Metropolis

This study was undertaken to analyze the economics of fruits and vegetables marketers in Bauchi metropolis specifically Muda Lawal Market. One hundred (100) fruits and vegetables marketers were randomly selected from the fruits and vegetables section of the market, using a simple random sampling technique. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the data generated and further subjected to SWOT (Strength, Weakness, Opportunities and Threat) analysis. The data shows that significant number of the marketers are male, married, with household size of 6-10, falls within the age group of 30- 49 years with post primary education. In addition we found that the majority of the marketers have over six years working experience, household constitute the largest buyers of the products and as usual with all businesses have more retailers than wholesalers. Seasonal fluctuation has the biggest influence on price followed by variety. The strength of the business is an existence of an already market and minimal capital requirement to set up the business. The weakness is the near complete absence of preservation and seasonal nature of the products. Opportunities exist due to the growing demand and diverse uses of the product as a result of the growing population. The biggest threat to the marketers is the high cost of transporting products and lack of storage facilities. The study concluded that unless adequate attention is given to the problems identified, the marketers will continue to face the challenges in the business thereby passing the unnecessary cost incurred to the final consumers. We conclude by recommending that marketers should look at the possibility of using alternative means of transportation especially the train because it‘s cheaper and bigger, Government should collaborate with Research centres to explore the possibility of developing an affordable and efficient preservation technology and Develop an all year round farming system.