IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON SERVICE FIRMS IN PORT HARCOURT

Abstract

Our study centered on impact of covid19 on service firms in Port Harcourt. The study was informed on key challenges posed by Covid 19 pandemic, the coping mechanisms, and potential long-term implications for business sustainability, as understanding these factors is crucial for developing policies and strategies that will enhance the resilience of service firms against future economic shocks and pandemics. The study was guided by two research questions and two hypotheses, adopted correlational research design, the study population comprised of thirty (30) service firms in Port Harcourt and census study carried out. Questionnaire was the major instrument for data collection. Data collected was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) adopted to test the various hypotheses formulated, with the aid of statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 26. In course of the study it was found and held that there is a strong and significant relationship between lock down and service reliability. There is significant relationship between speed delivery and service response of service firms in Port Harcourt. Consequently, the study recommended among others that service firms in Port Harcourt must prioritize moving their operations online, offering services via digital platforms to ensure continued service delivery, especially during times of social distancing or lockdowns. Service firms in Port Harcourt should develop flexible business models that can easily adapt to unforeseen circumstances, be customer centered providing prompt service delivery to remain competitive.