Plan de mejoramiento de optimización de costos a través de la importación de productos en Ferretería Los Potricos

Abstract

The thesis titled "Cost Optimization through Product Importation at Los Potricos Hardware Store," developed by Yadoris Juliana Velazco Porras, had the main objective of reducing procurement costs for key products such as iron and zinc by implementing direct import strategies, thereby strengthening the company's competitiveness in the hardware market. The research adopted a mixed approach (quantitative and qualitative), utilizing internal sales analysis, employee, customer, and supplier surveys, as well as a comparative study with other hardware stores. This revealed that rising prices for high-turnover products, resulting from external factors such as rising raw material prices and logistical issues, were impacting the business's profitability. The results showed that both the internal team and suppliers and customers perceive direct imports as viable for reducing costs. An improvement plan was designed that included the identification and evaluation of international suppliers, logistics management, legal compliance, and the development of an import pilot program with an analysis of the impact on costs, quality, and customer satisfaction. The discussion concludes that dependence on local suppliers limits the company's ability to offer competitive prices. Importing is presented as a viable strategic alternative, provided it is managed with appropriate technical, legal, and logistical criteria. Implementing a well-structured import model allows Ferretería Los Potricos to optimize its operating costs, improve its profit margin, and ensure its sustainability in an increasingly competitive market.