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Surviving in a borderless virus: impact of coronavirus on small-scale food services in Wa, Ghana

Author

Listed:
  • Ibrahim Abu Abdulai

    (SD Dombo University of Business and Business and Integrated Development Studies)

  • Moses Naiim Fuseini

    (SD Dombo University of Business and Business and Integrated Development Studies)

  • Mohammed Sulemana

    (SD Dombo University of Business and Business and Integrated Development Studies)

  • Prosper Basommi Laari

    (SD Dombo University of Business and Business and Integrated Development Studies)

Abstract

Coronavirus (COVID-19) has had a devastating effect on all facets of national economies, including the food services sector. However, studies on the implications of COVID-19 on formal food service providers in West Africa, particularly in Ghana, have been sparse. As such, this study investigates the COVID-19 crisis’s impact on food service businesses. The study used the qualitative research approach with the case study design as a strategy of inquiry. Using a purposive sample procedure, the study employed a multiple case study approach, with 10 research participants drawn from two formal food service providers. The data were elicited using a semi-structured interview guide and analysed using thematic and cross-case analysis. The study discovered that COVID-19 influenced food services through improved sanitary procedures, shortages and increased pricing of food items, greater spending, partial closures, employee layoffs, and a drop in sales and revenue. Additionally, the study identified the need to improve customer service and technology adoption as lessons learned while diversifying food services, enhancing marketing strategy, and applying for government assistance served as coping strategies. COVID-19, in general, had a detrimental effect on businesses. To be sustainable, businesses must accumulate sufficient contingency funds, which tailor-made government rescue programmes must supplement.

Suggested Citation

  • Ibrahim Abu Abdulai & Moses Naiim Fuseini & Mohammed Sulemana & Prosper Basommi Laari, 2023. "Surviving in a borderless virus: impact of coronavirus on small-scale food services in Wa, Ghana," SN Business & Economics, Springer, vol. 3(10), pages 1-27, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:snbeco:v:3:y:2023:i:10:d:10.1007_s43546-023-00557-7
    DOI: 10.1007/s43546-023-00557-7
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Chen, R. & Chen, K. & Ou, Carol, 2023. "Facilitating interorganizational trust in strategic alliances by leveraging blockchain-based systems: Case studies of two eastern banks," Other publications TiSEM 85ecf99c-76f0-416e-9604-d, Tilburg University, School of Economics and Management.
    2. Huang, Hsien-Long, 2023. "Challenges for contactless online food delivery services during the COVID-19 pandemic in Taiwan: Moderating effects of perceived government response," Evaluation and Program Planning, Elsevier, vol. 97(C).
    3. Kathleen Carley, 1997. "Organizational adaptation," Annals of Operations Research, Springer, vol. 75(0), pages 25-47, January.
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