An investigation into the factors that influence the effectiveness of the manufacturing and marketing of furniture products and possible ways of improving their performance: the case of Gikomba, Kariobangi and Mathare areas of Nairobi province
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Date
2012-04-03
Authors
Karanja, Crispus
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Abstract
The informal sector enterprises will emerge in the next century as a major source of resource mobilization in Kenya. Their capacities to absorb employment and optimal performance will depend on the sort of incentives and support systems that are provided for by the government and the private sector.
The objectives of this study was to investigate the factors that influence the effectiveness of manufacturing and marketing of furniture products and come up with possible ways of improving their performance. Primary data was collected using a questionnaire composed of semi-structured questions. The questionnaire was administered to forty respondents.
The study identified that this sector is so heterogeneous and its needs so diverse that no single approach can be offered as the perfect solution. Instead, a series of programmes are necessary in a number of areas in order to produce the conditions that will be conducive to greater participation of successfully becoming self-employed and also for those entrepreneurs who have capacity to expand businesses.
It should be noted that the Jua Kali sector exists side by side with huge multinationals with high manufacturing and managerial skills. As a result of this, coming up with the right policies will lead to equitable distribution of business operations.
The issue of inadequate finance is a major hindrance to growth. If credit institutions are to be a major stimulus to investment then appropriate incentives must be established. Market opportunities should be simultaneously expanded through preferential government purchase schemes and by exploring new markets through effective promotional efforts.
The strengthening of the country's technical research capacity and simplifying access of training for the informal sector participation will create a wider technological innovation for the country's industrialisation process.
Description
The HD 9773.K4 K3
Keywords
Furniture industry--Kenya//Furniture--Marketing