Freshness Guaranteed: Total Quality Management Practices for Local Fruit and Vegetable Vendors
Jesus Remar C. Dassun, DBA jesusdassun@ucu.edu.ph, Angelo S. Cayaban angelocayaban46@gmail.com, Angelica M. Angellano angellanoangelica4@gmail.com, John Russel G. Bonifacio russelbonifacio9@gmail.com, Christine Gayle C. Dulay gayledulay18@gmail.com, Rhena Mae M. Maningding rhenamaningding@gmail.com, Jezza M. Villasfer villasferjezza@gmail.com

College of Business Management and Accountancy
Urdaneta City University
Urdaneta City, Pangasinan, Philippines 2428

Abstract

Total Quality Management (TQM) is a framework that emphasizes long-term organizational success through customer satisfaction and the continuous improvement of operational processes. However, its application to micro-level enterprises such as fruit and vegetable vendors remains underexplored, particularly in addressing challenges such as inadequate storage, inconsistent supply management, and poor-quality control. This study aimed to enhance the TQM practices of fruit and vegetable vendors to minimize stock-outs and overstocks, reduce spoilage, and maintain product quality. Using a descriptive research design, data were gathered through a validated survey questionnaire administered to vendors in the Fruits and Vegetables Market Section of Villasis, Pangasinan. The results, analyzed through frequency counts, percentages, and weighted means, revealed that vendors generally demonstrate high levels of TQM practice. Furthermore, significant relationships were identified between selected business profile variables namely, daily operating hours, average monthly expenses, and the number of helpers and the effectiveness of TQM practices in inventory management, supply management, and quality control. These findings suggest that larger and more resource-equipped vendors are better positioned to implement consistent quality standards. Despite these practices, the study underscores the need for continuous improvement. To institutionalize quality assurance, a policy brief is recommended for submission to the Local Government of Villasis, Pangasinan, advocating for the standardization of quality monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure high-quality produce in local markets.

Keywords: Total Quality Management, Local Fruits and Vegetable, Local Government, Policy Brief, Quality Assurance

Topic: Innovative Education in the Digital Era