Organizational Culture and Performance of Eateries and Restaurants in Southern Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between organizational culture and the performance of eateries and restaurants in Southern Cross River State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study investigated the influence of leadership style, communication, employee engagement, teamwork and innovation orientation on operational efficiency. The study was necessitated by the operational difficulties confronting eateries and restaurants, including increasing costs of food ingredients, energy, transportation and other operating inputs, as well as the need to maintain efficient service delivery in a competitive business environment. A cross-sectional survey research design was adopted. The study population comprised 671 employees drawn from selected eateries and restaurants in Southern Cross River State. Using the Taro Yamane formula at a 5% level of precision, a sample size of 251 respondents was determined. A structured questionnaire was administered, and 238 valid responses were retrieved and used for analysis. The instrument was structured on a five point Likert scale. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation and regression analysis, while structural equation modelling was considered where appropriate. The study is anchored on the Denison Organizational Culture Model, which emphasizes the importance of involvement, consistency, adaptability and mission in organizational effectiveness. The findings indicate that organizational culture is an important organizational factor associated with operational efficiency. The study further provides evidence that leadership style, communication, employee engagement, teamwork and innovation orientation are important cultural practices that can influence how efficiently eateries and restaurants coordinate resources, employees and service activities. The study recommends that managers of eateries and restaurants should develop supportive leadership practices, strengthen internal communication, encourage employee participation, promote teamwork and create an environment that supports innovation.