ABSTRACT

This study examined the effect of transportation and warehousing on marketing performance of flour distributors in Abia State. To determine the sample size, a random sampling techniques was used in selecting  Six (6) flour associations. A questionnaire was designed and distributed to 66 respondents by hand. Transportation modes commonly practiced, warehousing system application, determinants of factors affecting the choice of transportation mode, warehousing system and factors affecting sales and market shares were the specific objectives of the study. Correlation and multiple regression model as well as descriptive statistics were the analytical tools used. Results of the study showed that most distributors in the study area used land mode with fright and self means. There was an inverse relationship between transportation and warehousing cost. Transportation affects sales volume and market shares of the flour distributors. Factors that affect sales and market shares of the distributors were price strategy, promotion cost, number of brands and competition. Competition negatively related to sales volume and market shares.  Delivery efficiency, road network, cost of transportation, railways availability and sea port availability were factors identified as determinants of choice of transportation mode. While other identified variables positively related to the dependent variable, sea port availability negatively relates to the dependent variable.  On warehousing systems choice, accessibility, location of warehouse, warehouse capacity, customers location, and quantity of goods to be stored positively related to warehousing systems choice except quantity of goods to be stored which has inverse relationship with the dependent variable. It was recommended that flour distributors should see transportation as an investment and not expenditure as well as being pessimistic in warehousing expenditure. Applications of modern warehousing techniques were recommended for efficient warehousing performance.