By Obiegue, Ann Chiamaka
This research was conducted to appraise the distribution system of made in Nigerian paints, which was a study of three selected paints manufacturing companies in Onitsha, Anambra State. The three selected paint manufacturers include: Citizen Chemical Industries Nigeria Limited, Ages Enterprises Nigeria Limited and JACBON Industries Limited. This investigative research was carried out using questionnaire, interviews and personal observation. The sample size was determined using Bole’s formula. In this research, one hundred and ninety six (196) customers/users of the three selected paint companies were sampled out of a population of three hundred (300). Also, all the thirty (30) distributors of the three selected paint Companies were administered with questionnaires since they are few. The data collected were classified and analyzed using percentage. Furthermore, hypotheses were tested using Z test statistical measurement. The major findings are as follows: The customers/users of the three selected paint manufacturing companies are not satisfied with their present distribution system; There is need for the introduction of effective and efficient physical distribution management policy by the selected paint manufacturing companies; Efficient physical distribution management increases profitability of companies; High cost of distribution of paint leads to high cost of paints in the market. Recommendations to readdress the problems were stated. These include: There should be effective management of physical distribution activities in the companies and other marketing logistics operations to satisfy the customers. The companies should be well equipped with all necessary facilities. The management should source for fund to procure raw materials for continuous production which will lead to constant availability of the products that will satisfy the customers. The system of distribution of the companies’ product using mainly the distributors should be relaxed hence, it does not ensure adequate market coverage as the products do not get to the numerous customers scattered all over the town. An intensive distribution strategy (direct, indirect and integrated strategies) should be adopted. New delivery vans should be purchased and more salesmen employed by the companies to sell the products. The management of the companies should introduce many different sizes of paints products to take care of the different needs, purposes and uses of their customers. The management should adopt modern Inventory Control Measures such as the A-B-C Analysis; Two Bin Method and Economic Order Quantity. Also, adequate warehouses and depots should be constructed with Store Officers in-charge for proper inventory management.