Unstable power threatens sachet water business

Some sachet water and ice block sellers in Kpeyegyi and Kurudu communities of the FCT have raised concerns over poor electricity supply, saying it is threatening their businesses. The traders told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja that the situation had led to a sharp increase in the prices of the commodities. Mrs […]

Some sachet water and ice block sellers in Kpeyegyi and Kurudu communities of the FCT have raised concerns over poor electricity supply, saying it is threatening their businesses.

The traders told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja that the situation had led to a sharp increase in the prices of the commodities.

Mrs Victoria Alizi, a trader, said unstable power supply had greatly increased operational costs, forcing a hike in the price of sachet water.

According to her, she previously sold a bag of sachet water for N400 but now buys it at N500 and sells at N600 per bag.

Alizi added that profit margins had dwindled, noting that patronage was declining as consumers sought cheaper alternatives.

She appealed to relevant authorities to ensure stable electricity supply to ease production challenges, reduce costs, and improve livelihoods.

Mr Simon Boss, an ice block producer, said the situation had disrupted production, as he now relies heavily on petrol and diesel generators.

Mr Jude Makera, a sachet water producer, said frequent power outages often halted production for hours, days, or even up to a week, reducing output. (NAN)