CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED BY THE SELECTED CARINDERIA OWNERS IN BARANGAY POBLACION, SAN ISIDRO, NUEVA ECIJA AND THEIR STRATEGIES IN DEALING WITH INFLATION

Abstract

The constantly changing rate of inflation often affects food business owners and inevitably leads to various difficulties. This phenomenon poses harm not only to the economy but also to citizens who are directly affected by it. Thus, this study aimed to explore the challenges encountered by carinderia owners and the strategies they employ in dealing with inflation. This study utilized a phenomenological method under a qualitative research approach. Semi-structured interviews supported by note-taking and audio recordings were used to gather data to understand the challenges faced by eleven (11) small carinderia owners in Barangay Poblacion, San Isidro, Nueva Ecija, as well as their strategies for dealing with inflation. Judgment sampling was used to select participants based on specific characteristics. The participants were required to be carinderia owners, at least eighteen (18) years old, have a minimum of five (5) months of business experience, and be located in Barangay Poblacion, San Isidro, Nueva Ecija. The participating carinderia owners encountered challenges such as rising costs of ingredients, low sales, competition among carinderias amid inflation, and compensating workers. To manage these challenges, they employed strategies including adjusting the amount or type of ingredients, modifying pricing, estimating food supply quantities, relying on loyal customers, treating customers well, maintaining food quality, securing backup capital, and adjusting employee schedule. The results revealed that regardless of how long the business has been operating, carinderia owners continue to experience challenges due to inflation, which causes significant difficulties. Despite these challenges, the owners were able to develop strategies and solutions to cope with and overcome the effects of inflation.