Assessment of the Operation of the 24-hour Convenience Stores in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, Philippines

Abstract

Round-the-clock establishments are no longer just for manufacturing but also for raising productivity and lowering costs in a wide-range of industries. This study looked into the nature and operation of 24-hour convenience stores in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, with the objective to provide proper guidance and adequate information for entrepreneurs who are planning to increase and expand 24-hour convenience stores within the city. The researchers utilized the quantitative method with purposive sampling design with managers or proprietors and the convenient sampling design with 48 customers of such stores. Data were treated using percentages, weighted mean, t-test, and chi-square. Results showed that store owners made maximum use of time, equipment, and people; designed solutions for costly problems of morale, health, safety, care for employees through benefits; and the disadvantages and advantages of running 24-hour convenience stores. The findings suggest that though the customers’ convenience of not being rushed due to fear of closing hours, the need for the huge investment coupled with the challenge of getting employees willing to work on midnight shifts made these convenience stores challenging businesses to start up. The study found that contrary to general belief; these stores do not guarantee any economic stability during a national economic crisis. Such stores also do not help last-minute customers, given limited commodities.