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CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Fast food outlets have become an integral part of the food industry in Nigeria, with a significant presence in various cities, including Oredo and Egor Local Government Areas of Edo State (Okoro, 2020). The rise of fast food outlets in these areas has transformed the way people consume food, with many opting for convenient and affordable meals (Adelekan, 2017). According to a report by the Nigerian National Bureau of Statistics (2020), the fast food industry in Nigeria has experienced significant growth over the past decade, with an estimated market size of over ₦500 billion. This growth can be attributed to the increasing demand for convenient and affordable food options, particularly among the working-class population (Ojo, 2019).

The proliferation of fast food outlets in Oredo and Egor Local Government Areas has also led to an increase in employment opportunities, with many young people employed in the industry (Ezeh, 2018). However, despite their popularity, there is a need to evaluate the operational efficiency of these outlets to ensure they meet the expectations of customers and contribute to the local economy (Ogbebor, 2020). A study by Ademola and Adeyemi (2019) found that many fast food outlets in Nigeria face operational challenges, including poor supply chain management, inadequate staff training, and inefficient inventory management.

According to a survey conducted by the Nigerian Consumer Protection Council (2019), many consumers in Nigeria are concerned about the quality and safety of food served in fast food outlets. The survey found that 70% of respondents had experienced food poisoning or foodborne illnesses after consuming food from fast food outlets. This highlights the need for fast food outlets to prioritize food quality and safety in their operations (Adeyemi, 2020).

In addition, fast food outlets in Oredo and Egor Local Government Areas face intense competition, with many outlets operating in close proximity to each other (Okoro, 2020). This competition has led to a focus on price competition, with many outlets offering discounts and promotions to attract customers (Adelekan, 2017). However, this focus on price competition may compromise the quality of food and services offered by fast food outlets (Ojo, 2019).

The rise of fast food outlets in Oredo and Egor Local Government Areas has also led to concerns about the impact of fast food consumption on public health (Ezeh, 2018). A study by the World Health Organization (2019) found that the consumption of fast food is associated with an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, and other non-communicable diseases. This highlights the need for fast food outlets to offer healthier menu options and promote healthy eating habits (Ademola and Adeyemi, 2019).

Furthermore, fast food outlets in Oredo and Egor Local Government Areas face challenges related to waste management and environmental sustainability (Ogbebor, 2020). A study by the Nigerian Environmental Protection Agency (2020) found that many fast food outlets in Nigeria generate significant amounts of waste, including packaging materials and food waste. This highlights the need for fast food outlets to adopt sustainable practices and reduce their environmental footprint (Adeyemi, 2020).

In conclusion, the rise of fast food outlets in Oredo and Egor Local Government Areas has transformed the way people consume food in Nigeria. However, despite their popularity, there is a need to