Strategic Response of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the Retail and Food Sector to Climate-Related Economic Disruptions in Lusaka

Chilowekwa Shike

Diplomová práce

Abstract:

Climate related disruptions have increasingly affected urban food systems across Sub Saharan Africa, and Lusaka has become one of the most vulnerable urban centres due to recurrent flooding, transport interruptions and food price volatility. This study examined how such climate related economic disruptions influence household purchasing behaviour and how these behavioural changes shape demand patterns for small and medium sized enterprises in the retail and food sector. The research employed a quantitative approach, collecting data from 385 urban consumers using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive analysis revealed varied household experiences, with significant proportions reporting disruptions in market access, price fluctuations and changes in purchasing quantity and product choice. However, multivariate analysis showed that flooding, transport interruptions and food price volatility did not significantly predict household purchasing behaviour. Despite the absence of strong statistical relationships, respondents perceived SMEs to be highly affected by climate disruptions, citing stock outs, unstable pricing and fragile supply chains. SWOT and PESTEL analyses revealed structural weaknesses and external threats that limit SME resilience, including poor storage systems, weak policy enforcement and inadequate early warning mechanisms. The study contributes to the understanding of climate related consumer behaviour and SME vulnerability in rapidly urbanising African contexts and highlights the need for strengthened supply chain systems, improved institutional support and enhanced climate preparedness strategies.

Keywords

Consumer behaviour, Climate disruptions, Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs)

Jazyk práce: angličtina

Datum vytvoření / odevzdání či podání práce: 3. 4. 2026

Obhajoba závěrečné práce

• Vedoucí: prof. Ing. Petr Procházka, MSc Ph.D.
• Oponent: Hana Hönigová, externi

Česká zemědělská univerzita v Praze

Provozně ekonomická fakulta

Magisterský studijní program:
Business Administration