Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Small-scale enterprises (SSEs) play a pivotal role in driving economic growth, fostering job creation, and alleviating poverty in developing economies like Nigeria. In Birnin Gwari LGA, Kaduna State, SSEs contribute significantly to local commerce, particularly in agriculture, trade, and small-scale manufacturing. However, these enterprises face challenges such as limited market access, poor customer engagement, and inadequate public visibility. Public Relations (PR) is a crucial tool in addressing these challenges by enhancing brand visibility, fostering customer loyalty, and promoting effective communication between businesses and their stakeholders.
PR strategies, including media campaigns, community engagement, and brand storytelling, enable SSEs to build credibility and gain competitive advantage. Recent studies highlight that PR not only helps businesses establish a positive reputation but also facilitates relationships with potential investors and customers (Adekunle & Bello, 2023). Despite these benefits, the application of PR by SSEs in Birnin Gwari LGA is often minimal, limiting their growth potential. This study explores the role of PR in supporting the growth of SSEs in the region, emphasizing strategies for overcoming challenges and maximizing impact.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
SSEs in Birnin Gwari LGA face barriers such as limited customer outreach, inadequate brand promotion, and poor stakeholder communication, which hinder their growth. While PR holds promise as a solution to these challenges, its utilization by small-scale entrepreneurs in the area remains underdeveloped. There is a need to investigate how PR can be effectively applied to promote SSE growth and to identify gaps in existing practices.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
1.4 Research Questions
1.5 Research Hypotheses
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study underscores the importance of PR in the growth of SSEs, providing actionable insights for entrepreneurs, policymakers, and PR practitioners. By focusing on Birnin Gwari LGA, it sheds light on localized challenges and offers strategies for leveraging PR to boost economic development. The findings have broader implications for similar communities across Nigeria.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is limited to examining PR strategies for small-scale enterprises in Birnin Gwari LGA, Kaduna State. It does not cover medium- or large-scale businesses or other LGAs in the state.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
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