Background of the Study
The evolution of marketing strategies has been significantly influenced by advancements in technology. Traditional marketing, which includes methods like print media, billboards, and radio advertising, has been the backbone of business promotion for decades. However, the advent of digital technology has shifted the focus toward digital marketing strategies, such as social media marketing, email campaigns, and search engine optimization (Kotler et al., 2023). Retail businesses, particularly in developing economies like Nigeria, are increasingly exploring digital platforms to enhance customer engagement and drive sales (Chaffey, 2023).
In Kwara State, retail businesses face unique challenges, including limited access to advanced digital tools and low consumer digital literacy levels. However, digital marketing offers significant benefits, including cost-effectiveness, wider reach, and real-time analytics, compared to traditional methods (Smith & Taylor, 2024). Despite these advantages, many businesses continue to rely on traditional marketing due to its familiarity and perceived reliability in reaching local audiences. This creates a dichotomy that underscores the need to evaluate the effectiveness of both strategies within the retail sector.
Recent studies emphasize the growing importance of understanding the integration of digital and traditional marketing strategies for improved performance. The comparative analysis between these approaches can provide insights into how retail businesses can optimize their marketing investments (Akinyele et al., 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Retail businesses in Kwara State struggle to identify the most effective marketing strategies for achieving competitive advantage. While digital marketing promises innovation and efficiency, its adoption is hindered by factors like inadequate infrastructure and low expertise (Ogunyemi & Adekunle, 2024). On the other hand, traditional marketing, although more established, is often costlier and less adaptable to changing consumer behavior.
The lack of empirical data comparing the performance of digital and traditional marketing strategies within this region creates a gap in understanding how retail businesses can maximize their market potential. Without addressing this issue, businesses risk investing in ineffective strategies, leading to suboptimal growth.
Objectives of the Study
1. To compare the effectiveness of digital marketing strategies and traditional marketing in retail businesses in Kwara State.
2. To identify the challenges faced by retail businesses in adopting digital marketing strategies.
3. To evaluate the impact of marketing strategies on customer engagement and sales performance.
Research Questions
1. How does the effectiveness of digital marketing compare to traditional marketing in retail businesses in Kwara State?
2. What challenges do retail businesses face in adopting digital marketing strategies?
3. How do marketing strategies influence customer engagement and sales performance?
Research Hypotheses
1. There is no significant difference in the effectiveness of digital marketing and traditional marketing in retail businesses in Kwara State.
2. Challenges in adopting digital marketing strategies do not significantly affect retail business performance.
3. Marketing strategies do not significantly influence customer engagement and sales performance.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on retail businesses in Kwara State, Nigeria, examining their use of digital and traditional marketing strategies. It considers factors like customer engagement, sales performance, and marketing costs. Limitations may include limited access to comprehensive data and variations in business size and industry.
Definitions of Terms
• Digital Marketing: The use of online platforms and tools to promote products and services.
• Traditional Marketing: Conventional marketing methods, such as print and broadcast advertising.
• Customer Engagement: The process of interacting with customers to build brand loyalty.
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Political culture refers to the set of bel...
Background of the Study
Lifestyle modification is a cornerstone in the management of hypertension, espe...
Background of the Study
Widowhood rites, as practiced in Nsukka, are deeply embedded in cultural traditions and are design...
Background of the Study
Adult literacy programs have emerged as critical instruments for economic empowerment and community development,...
Background of the Study
Masquerade festivals have been an integral part of cultural expression in Nsukka, symbolizing the convergence of...
ABSTRACT
This study examined the effects of climate change adaptation strategies on food crop produ...
Background of the Study
Customer Relationship Management (CRM) is an integrated approach aimed at managing customer interactions and data...
Background of the Study
Innovative rural financing models are transforming agricultural banking by addressing the unique challenges faced...
Background of the Study
E-learning has emerged as a powerful tool for continuing professional education in healthcare, offering flexible...
Background of the Study
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has long faced a housing deficit, particularly in its rapidly g...