Beatrice AISAGBONBUOMWAN

The distribution and marketing of leafy vegetables pose significant challenges due to their perishable nature. This study was conducted to assess the profitability of vegetable marketing in Benin City, Edo State, by examining the socioeconomic characteristics of leafy vegetable marketers, determining the cost and margins of leafy vegetable marketing, analyzing the determinants of profit in this sector, and identifying associated challenges. A sample of 100 respondents from five markets was selected using a simple random sampling method. Data were collected through structured questionnaire administered to vegetables marketers. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics budgetary analysis and inferential statistics (linear regression). The findings indicate that the majority (89.0%) of respondents were females, highlighting the dominance of females in vegetable marketing. Middle-aged individuals constitute a substantial proportion (40%) of vegetable marketers, and married individuals dominate the sector (42%). Larger households with 4-6 members contribute significantly to family labor and expenses. Total revenue (TR) from various vegetables amounted to ₦29,675.71, with variable osts (TVC) totaling ₦20,730 and fixed costs at ₦7,050. The total Marketing cost (TMC) was ₦27,780, resulting in a net return of ₦1,895.71. While the net return indicates profitability, it is relatively lower compared to previous research findings. Key constraints include poor access roads, rapid quality deterioration/spoilage, seasonal price fluctuations, and high transportation costs. The perishable nature of vegetables presents a significant challenge. it can be concluded that vegetable marketing in Benin City is predominantly conducted by females, often middle- aged and married individuals. Despite profitability, the profit margin is comparatively lower than in previous studies. It was recommended that addressing poor access roads to alleviate transportation challenges and reduce spoilage and marketing costs.

The distribution and marketing of leafy vegetables pose significant challenges due
to their perishable nature. This study was conducted to assess the profitability of vegetable marketing in Benin City, Edo State, by examining the socioeconomic characteristics of leafy vegetable marketers, determining the cost and margins of leafy vegetable marketing, analyzing the determinants of profit in this sector, and identifying associated challenges. A sample of 100 respondents from five markets was selected using a simple random sampling method. Data were collected through structured questionnaire administered to vegetables marketers. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics budgetary analysis and inferential statistics (linear
regression). The findings indicate that the majority (89.0%) of respondents were females, highlighting the dominance of females in vegetable marketing. Middle-aged
individuals constitute a substantial proportion (40%) of vegetable marketers, and
married individuals dominate the sector (42%). Larger households with 4-6 members contribute significantly to family labor and expenses. Total revenue (TR) from various vegetables amounted to ₦29,675.71, with variable costs (TVC) totaling ₦20,730 and fixed costs at ₦7,050. The total marketing cost (TMC) was ₦27,780, resulting in a net return of ₦1,895.71. While the net return indicates profitability, it is relatively lower compared to previous research findings. Key constraints include poor access roads, rapid quality deterioration/spoilage, seasonal price fluctuations, and high transportation costs. The perishable nature of vegetables presents a significant challenge. it can be concluded that vegetable marketing in Benin City is predominantly conducted by females, often middle- aged and married individuals. Despite profitability, the profit margin is comparatively lower than in previous studies. It was recommended that
addressing poor access roads to alleviate transportation challenges and reduce spoilage and marketing costs.