Background of the Study
Sustainability in business refers to the practices and strategies that businesses adopt to minimize their negative impact on the environment, society, and economy, while ensuring long-term profitability and ethical responsibility. In the retail sector, sustainability practices may include waste reduction, energy conservation, sustainable sourcing, ethical labor practices, and efforts to minimize the carbon footprint (Jackson & Koster, 2024). As consumers become more environmentally and socially conscious, retail businesses are under increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices in response to growing demand for eco-friendly and socially responsible products and services.
In Nigeria, sustainability practices in retail businesses are still in the early stages of development. However, as global and local environmental concerns intensify, many supermarkets are beginning to adopt more sustainable practices, driven by both consumer demand and regulatory pressures. In Kebbi State, supermarkets are increasingly being challenged to balance growth with sustainability, particularly in managing waste, reducing plastic use, and sourcing products from sustainable sources (Ogunyomi & Nwankwo, 2023).
This study aims to assess sustainability practices in supermarkets in Kebbi State and examine the factors that drive these practices, the challenges faced by supermarkets, and the overall impact on business performance and customer loyalty. By understanding how supermarkets in Kebbi State implement sustainable practices, the study will provide insights into the potential benefits and barriers to sustainability in the Nigerian retail sector.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the growing recognition of the importance of sustainability in retail, there is limited research on how supermarkets in Kebbi State implement sustainability practices and the challenges they face in doing so. Many supermarkets in the region are struggling to balance profitability with environmental and social responsibility. The lack of adequate infrastructure, limited awareness, and financial constraints may prevent supermarkets from adopting comprehensive sustainability practices. Understanding the barriers and drivers of sustainability in the retail sector is crucial for improving the sustainability performance of supermarkets in Kebbi State.
This study will assess the extent to which sustainability practices are implemented in supermarkets in Kebbi State and identify the challenges and opportunities for improving these practices.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on supermarkets in Kebbi State, examining the sustainability practices they adopt and the factors that influence their implementation. A limitation of the study may include the varying levels of commitment and resources available to supermarkets in adopting sustainability practices.
Definitions of Terms