EFFECT OF WORKING CAPITAL MANAGEMENT ON THE PROFITABILITY OF QUOTED FOOD MANUFACTURING COMPANIES IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This study explored the Effect of Working Capital Management on the profitability of quoted food manufacturing corporations in Nigeria. Specifically, it examined the effects of the Current Ratio, Inventory Turnover Ratio, Cash Conversion Cycle, and Average Payment Period on the profitability of food manufacturing companies in Nigeria. The study employed an ex post facto research design. It utilized various econometric techniques, including panel unit root and cointegration tests, pooled OLS, fixed and random effects models, and the Hausman test. The findings revealed a significant relationship between the Cash Conversion Cycle and Return on Assets, suggesting that a longer Cash Conversion Cycle may improve asset returns. However, CCC had an insignificant relationship with the Net Profit Margin (NPM). Conversely, the Average Payment Period (APP) negatively affected NPM, indicating that delayed payments can harm profit margins, although it did not significantly influence Return on Assets. The rate of inventory turnover and the short-term liquidity metric showed no significant relationship with the Return on Assets. Inventory Turnover Ratio (ITR) also negatively affected Net Profit Margin, suggesting that higher turnover may reduce margins due to potential inefficiencies. The Hausman test favoured the Random Effects Model as the most efficient estimation method. The study concluded that optimizing the Cash Conversion Cycle and Average Payment Period is crucial for enhancing profitability. In contrast, the impact of the current ratio and inventory turnover ratio on profitability is insignificant. Based on these findings, the study recommends that policymakers incentivize efficient liquidity practices, promote timely payments, support advanced inventory management, and encourage strategic partnerships. Companies are also advised to optimize their Cash Conversion Cycle by closely monitoring inventory, receivables, and payables, reconsider payment arrangements, improve inventory management, and optimize asset utilization to enhance profitability.