Background of the Study
Financial record-keeping is an essential component of effective business management, enabling owners to track income, expenses, and profitability. For small businesses, particularly retail shops in Kwara State, maintaining accurate financial records is crucial for sustainability and growth. However, many small business owners face difficulties in implementing proper record-keeping practices due to limited financial literacy, lack of resources, and reliance on informal systems (Adeyemi & Ogunleye, 2023).
Effective financial record-keeping enhances decision-making, facilitates access to credit, and ensures compliance with tax regulations. Despite these benefits, research indicates that a significant proportion of small businesses in Nigeria lack proper record-keeping systems, which negatively impacts their performance and growth potential (Olusola & Adebayo, 2024). This study aims to investigate the challenges of financial record-keeping in retail shops in Kwara State and propose solutions to improve their practices.
Statement of the Problem
Retail shop owners in Kwara State often struggle with implementing effective financial record-keeping systems. Common challenges include inadequate financial literacy, lack of access to affordable tools, and resistance to adopting formal practices (Afolabi & Ajayi, 2025). These challenges hinder their ability to make informed decisions, secure funding, and comply with regulatory requirements.
The absence of proper financial records also limits the ability of small businesses to measure performance and plan for future growth. This study seeks to identify the specific barriers to financial record-keeping in Kwara State and recommend strategies for overcoming them.
Objectives of the Study
To examine the financial record-keeping practices of retail shop owners in Kwara State.
To identify challenges faced by small businesses in implementing financial record-keeping systems.
To propose solutions for improving financial record-keeping practices in retail shops.
Research Questions
What are the financial record-keeping practices of retail shop owners in Kwara State?
What challenges hinder small businesses from implementing proper financial record-keeping systems?
What strategies can improve financial record-keeping practices in retail shops?
Research Hypotheses
Financial literacy significantly influences the effectiveness of record-keeping practices in retail shops.
Inadequate access to affordable tools is a major barrier to proper financial record-keeping.
Improving financial record-keeping practices enhances the growth and sustainability of retail shops.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on retail shops in Kwara State, examining their financial record-keeping practices and challenges. The findings may not generalize to other business sectors or regions. Limitations include the willingness of business owners to share financial data and the availability of comprehensive records.
Definitions of Terms
Financial Record-Keeping: The systematic recording and management of financial transactions within a business.
Retail Shops: Small-scale businesses engaged in selling goods directly to consumers.
Financial Literacy: The ability to understand and effectively use financial skills, including budgeting and record-keeping.
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