INVENTORY CONTROL SYSTEMS AND PROFITABILITY OF SUPERMARKETS IN PORT HARCOURT, RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA.

Abstract

This research paper examined the relationship between inventory control systems and profitability of Supermarkets in Port Harcourt. Existing literature indicated that inventory control is a determining factor for the success or failure of any firm. The purpose of this study was to bring to fore the importance of inventory control systems on profitability of Supermarkets. This paper adopted a survey method. Forty (40) Supermarkets were studied. A total of 120 copies of the questionnaire were distributed to top, middle and lower managers of the firm. Pearson's Correlation technique was employed to test the hypotheses as contained in the SPSS Version 20.0. The findings of this study indicated that vendor managed inventory, just-in-time and material requirement planning had significant relationship with profitability. The study recommended that Supermarkets should implement vendor managed inventory, justin time inventory and material requirement planning to deliver quality service to customers and achieve profitability.