Middlemen do encounter problems in the process of carrying out their business. Explain.

Explanation

Problems encountered by the middlemen in carrying out their duties are :

(i) Inadequate storage facilities: The absence of or inadequacy of storage facilities has created problems in the distribution process and has led to fluctuations in prices.

(ii) Poor transportation and communication systems:Most products come from the fields in the rural areas which are not easily accessible. These products are in their primary condition and are perishable.

(iii) Large number of middlemen: As a particular product passes from one middle man to another, arise in the price of the product is expected. This means that the price of the product will have risen to a very high level by the time it gets to the final consumer.

(iv) Inadequate information: The producers, sellers and buyers do not get adequate information regarding the prevailing market conditions.

(v) Insecurity on the roads: In recent times, our roads have been made unsafe by armed bandits. This has seriously affected distribution of goods in Nigeria.

(vi) Administrative bottle necks in the collection and handling of goods: This problem affects all manufactured and agricultural products. Processing supply papers takes unending hours and days. Corrupt offi-cials unduly delay their customers.